The Queen vs. The Defendant

Cases tagged as Weapons

Cases in 2023

  • R. v. T.B.2023

    The client was charged with two charges for possessing firearms in an unauthorized place, two charges of assault, and one charge of assault causing bodily harm. After reviewing the disclosure and discussing the issues I found within the disclosure with the prosecutor, namely, that there were significant issues with their ability to prove any of the firearms charges against my client because his rights were violated by the police, and if we went to trial, I expected the judge would exclude that evidence. Regarding the assault charges, there were issues with the prosecutor's ability to prove the assault causing bodily harm, and one of the counts of assault. In the end, the client gave me instructions to enter a guilty plea to the one count of simple assault (domestic) for a conditional discharge. This will leave my client without a conviction and without a criminal record when originally, he would have faced jail time.

  • R. v. J.Z.2023

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon, possession of weapon for dangerous purpose and cause a disturbance. After reviewing disclosure and discussing the issues I found within the disclosure with the prosecutor, I was able to convince the prosecutor of accepting a guilty plea on the assault with a weapon charge. The client plead guilty to the one count and was sentenced to a 9-month conditional discharge with the other two counts being withdrawn. This sentence will leave the client without a criminal conviction.

  • R. v. K.M.2023

    The client was charged with possession of a firearm at an unauthorized place. I reviewed the disclosure in detail, and was able to prepare arguments as to why the prosecutor should agree to resolve the matter so the client would not have a criminal record. I met with the prosecutor and presented my arguments. The prosecutor agreed and the charge was dropped, leaving the client without a criminal record and without a conviction.

  • R. v. J.M.2023

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon. The complainant did not provide a written statement to police. The complainant did allege that the client assaulted him, however. Later, the complainant spoke to police again and confirmed that the original allegation was not accurate and that the client did not assault him. I used that information to approach the prosecutor to say that with that new information they did not have a case against my client. The prosecutor agreed, and the charge was dropped (withdrawn), leaving the client with no criminal record and no conviction.

  • R. v. J.W.2023

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon as a result of a beer bottle being used during the assault. The complainant was injured as a result of the offence. The allegation was serious and could have resulted in a jail sentence and an additional charge of assault causing bodily harm. However, I worked with the client to have them enroll in treatment and counselling, as well as having them provide me with information and documentation that would help me resolve the matter. The client entered a guilty plea and the prosecutor agreed to jointly propose a conditional discharge to the judge. The sentence will leave the client without a conviction.

Cases in 2022

  • R. v. K.M.2022

    The client was charged with careless use of firearm and pointing a firearm contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada, as well as a Traffic Safety Act offence for failing to stop at a stop sign at an intersection. This was a serious allegation and the client could have faced jail time if convicted. I worked closely with the client to have them enroll in courses and complete tasks that helped me to negotiate with the prosecutor. I was able to convince the prosecutor to agree to have the client enroll into the Alternative Measures Program. The client completed the requirements of the program and all charges were dropped. This left my client without a criminal record and without a conviction.

  • R. v. J.H.2022

    The client was charged with unlawfully discharging a firearm with intent to wound, maim or disfigure, possession of a prohibited firearm, and failure to comply with a recognizance order. These are very serious charges, especially unlawfully discharging a firearm with intent, which, at the time of the alleged offence, carried a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of imprisonment when a restricted firearm is used. After a preliminary inquiry, the client instructed me to see what kind of deal I could get from the prosecutor. An offence like this would have meant a jail sentence of over five years. However, I was able to persuade the crown prosecutor to agree to a sentence of three years jail. The other charges were dropped.

  • R. v. K.A.2022

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon and two counts of assault based on three separate domestic allegations by one complainant. The complainant gave several detailed statements to police. The client provided me with evidence of ongoing parenting litigation between the client and the complainant. I reviewed the statements and other evidence very carefully, and it became apparent that the complainant was falsely accusing the client in order to gain the upper hand in the parenting litigation. I was able to convince the prosecutor that they had very serious issues with their case. The crown prosecutor ultimately agreed with me that there was no reasonable likelihood of conviction, and withdrew (dropped) all of the charges, saving the client from a criminal record.

  • R. v. K.I. 2022

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon and theft under $5000.00. When I reviewed the disclosure, I realized that the crown would have trouble proving the client's identification which they need to prove to get a conviction. After some back-and-forth discussions, I convinced the crown to drop the charges. This meant no criminal record and no conviction for the client.

  • R. v. T.G.2022

    The client was charged with possession of a firearm, pointing a firearm and assault with a weapon. There were many negotiations that went back and forth with the crown. Initially the crown sought a significant jail sentence, however, I was able to negotiate for a conditional sentence order for the client. That meant no jail for very serious charges.

Cases in 2021

  • R. v. A.A.2021

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon, uttering threats and assault. The allegations were domestic in nature. They were very serious and a conviction would have had implications for the client's immigration status. I worked with the client to have them enroll in programs that would help me to help him. I received the disclosure and determined that there were issues with the crown's ability to prove the charges. I approached the prosecutor with both the information that the client had provided me with, along with my assessment of the case, and the crown agreed to outright withdraw all charges - assault, assault with a weapon and uttering threats.

  • R. v. A.E.2021

    The client was charged with possession of a controlled substance (cocaine) and possession of a prohibited weapon (baton) along with multiple traffic tickets. The client was stopped in a vehicle and the police searched it. I reviewed the disclosure and determined there were issues with the validity of the traffic stop i.e. the police did not have the grounds to stop the vehicle. The crown prosecutor agreed when I met with them, and I had all of the criminal and drug charges dropped, leaving the client with no criminal record and no convictions.

  • R. v. L.C.2021

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, and two counts of failure to comply. Initially, before I was counsel for the client, the crown sought a jail sentence (90 days) for the charges. I reached out to the crown and pointed to concerns regarding their inability to prove that the client was a party to the offence, as the allegations suggested. The crown agreed that the case was weak and offered a common law peace bond. With that, the charges against the client were all withdrawn (assault with a weapon charge and assault causing bodily harm).

  • R. v. W.B.2021

    The client was charged with a domestic assault with a weapon and assault causing bodily harm. The client had a previous history of domestic allegations, but none which resulted in convictions. Under my suggestion, the client began counselling Initially the crown prosecutor was seeking a term of jail (90 days). However, once I was retained to assist the client, I was able to negotiate a guilty plea for a sentence of 18 months probation. I was able to argue for a lesser sentence, and the client was sentenced to only 12 months probation.

  • R. v. D.K.2021

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon, mischief, and multiple traffic tickets. After early case resolution discussions with the Crown, the client was approved and accepted into the Alternative Measures Program. The charges and tickets were withdrawn upon completion of the program. The client was left with no criminal record and no convictions for any of the criminal charges. The traffic tickets were also withdrawn.

Cases in 2020

  • R. v. R.B.2020

    The client was charged with assault and careless storage of a firearm. Upon a detailed review of the disclosure, I determined there were issues with the way the police dealt with my client, and in particular, the search of the residence and seizure of the firearm. Armed with that information, I approached the crown to resolve the matter by way of a withdrawal of the firearms charge right at the outset, and then a withdrawal of the assault charge after the client entered into a peace bond for that charge. This was the best possible outcome in this case as the client avoided a conviction.

  • R. v. M.A.2020

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon, mischief, and unlawfully being in a dwelling house. The circumstances of the allegation were that the young person who was gainfully employed, was involved in a relationship that was tumultuous. I was able to explain the situation to the crown prosecutor, showing that the client was the real victim and had the charges dropped upon restitution being paid for damage to some of complainant's property. This was the best case scenario outcome that was achieved as the client's employment would have been at risk with a criminal record.

  • R. v. S.M.2020

    The client was charged on three different dockets. The charges included assault, assault with a weapon and uttering threats on the first. The second was for two counts of mischief, two counts mischief to property under $5000, and failing to comply. The last was for failing to attend. When we received his legal aid certificate, the client was in custody. He pleaded guilty to assault, one count of mischief to property under $5000, failing to comply, and failing to appear. The remaining charges were withdrawn. He had 14 days of pre-trial custody and was released on time served.

  • R. v. J.G.2020

    The client was charged with unauthorized possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and two counts of careless use of a firearm. The client attended counseling and also met with a psychologist to discuss the events that led to the charges. After lengthy discussions with the crown, after everything the client had done to address his issues, she was willing to withdraw the charges on the condition that a five year Order for Prohibition pursuant to s.111 (weapons prohibition) be entered. The client avoided any criminal conviction being entered on his record, which was important given his dual citizenship with the United States.

  • R. v. C.S.2020

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon, assaulting a peace officer with a weapon, and resisting arrest. After obtaining some background from the client regarding his mental health history, the crown was persuaded to refer the matter to the mental health diversion program. Once the client completed the requirements of the program, the charges against him were withdrawn.

  • R. v. A.A.2020

    The client was charged with a series of very serious offences stemming from the police stopping the vehicle the client was in, and finding a loaded firearm. The allegation was serious enough that the client was facing a penitentiary term of imprisonment. After receiving disclosure and completing a comprehensive assessment, I approached the prosecutor. After the prosecutor reviewed the file, they agreed that the charges against the client should be dropped entirely. The client walked away with out a conviction. The issues on the file were that the crown would not have been able to establish that the client possessed the firearm.

  • R. v. J.G.2020

    The client was charged with unauthorized possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and two counts of careless use of a firearm. The client attended counselling and also met with a psychologist to discuss the events that led to the charges. After lengthy discussions with the crown, after everything the client had done to address his issues, she was willing to withdraw the charges on the condition that a five year Order for Prohibition pursuant to s.111 (weapons prohibition) be entered. The client avoided any criminal conviction being entered on his record, which was important given his dual citizenship with the United States.

  • R. v. A.A.2020

    The client was charged with a series of very serious offences stemming from the police stopping the vehicle the client was in, and finding a loaded firearm. The allegation was serious enough that the client was facing a penitentiary term of imprisonment. After receiving disclosure and completing a comprehensive assessment, I approached the prosecutor. After the prosecutor reviewed the file, they agreed that the charges against the client should be dropped entirely. The client walked away with out a conviction. The issues on the file were that the crown would not have been able to establish that the client possessed the firearm.

Cases in 2019

  • R. v. U.M.2019

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon. The client pleaded guilty and the matter was set down for sentencing. A pre-sentence report was ordered, which outlined some of the neurological issues the client faced after brain surgery. This was helpful because even though he had two prior convictions for assault, he was able to avoid a jail sentence, as the judge factored this in to her decision. He was given a 12 month conditional sentence order and 12 months of probation.

  • R. v. G.H.2019

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon. He pleaded not guilty and the matter was set down for trial. On the day of trial, the complainant did not show up. The crown also hadn’t subpoenaed all the officers to appear as witnesses. As such, the charge was stayed. The client avoided having another conviction on his record.

  • R. v. A.J.2019

    The client was charged with impaired operation, failing to provide insurance, failing to provide registration, failing to provide a driver's license, and unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon. He pleaded not guilty and the matters were set down for trial. During a review of the disclosure, it was apparent there were some definite potential charter issues. The crown was approached to discuss resolution. They agreed to accept a guilty plea for possession of a prohibited weapon and all the remaining charges would be withdrawn. The client received a $2500.00 fine, as well as a five year prohibition on possessing any weapons. The prohibited weapon in question was confiscated. The client avoided jail time and any convictions regarding his driver's abstract.

  • R. v. M.W.2019

    The client was charged with assault and assault with a weapon. She pleaded guilty to assault and the assault with a weapon charge was dropped. I made arguments in relation to sentence, and the court granted the client a conditional discharge versus probation that the crown was seeking. My client was left without a criminal conviction.

  • R. v. J.S.2019

    The client was initially charged with theft under $5000.00 and pointing a firearm. The crown proceeded with filing a new information with additional charges including assault, theft under $5000.00, using an imitation firearm and possessing a weapon. The client pleaded guilty to assault, theft under $5000.00, and possessing a weapon. Originally the crown was seeking a term of incarceration, but after resolution discussions with the crown, they agreed to a term of probation instead. The remaining charge against him was withdrawn.

  • R. v. T.S.2019

    The client was charged with two counts of careless storage of a firearm. This was a serious allegation and a serious breach of my client's rights by police. After reviewing the disclosure, it was clear that the police had no authority to enter my client's home, and no authority to subsequently search his home. I reviewed the file in detail and researched the law. I then met with the crown and they agreed to drop the charge as there was no reasonable likelihood of conviction. My client was left without a criminal record and without a conviction.

  • R. v. T.H.2019

    The client was charged with possession of drugs, trafficking drugs (cocaine), possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.00, and unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon. The client pleaded not guilty and the matter was set down for a preliminary hearing. After the hearing, the judge decided there was enough evidence to proceed to trial, though only on the trafficking drugs and possession of property charges. The matter was set down for a three-day trial in Queen's Bench. On the day of trial, I secured my client a resolution that would leave him with very little jail time considering the nature of the allegations.

  • R. v. W.W.2019

    The client was charged on multiple files and his offences included two charges of possession of property obtained by crime under $5000.00, two charges of fraud under $5000.00, mischief to property under $5000.00, possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose, carrying a concealed weapon, and two charges of failing to comply with an undertaking (release/bail). The crown was initially seeking probation for the charges. However, I negotiated a resolution whereby my client was referred for a second time to the Mental Health Diversion program. The client was accepted into the program and upon completion of the requirements, all the charges on all of the files were withdrawn.

Cases in 2018

  • R. v. A.M.2018

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon and uttering threats. At the first court date, I spoke with the crown regarding how this had been a mutual altercation and it was not in the public interest to prosecute the file. The crown agreed and withdrew the charges against the client. No criminal record or further court appearances were required.

  • R. v. C.K.2018

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon, assault, mischief to property, failing to comply with an undertaking, two counts of failing to comply, and failing to comply with a provision of a protection order. The client pleaded guilty to assault with a weapon, failing to comply with an undertaking and failing to comply with a provision of a protection order. The crown was initially seeking a term of incarceration, however, upon negotiating with the crown, I was able to convince them to agree to a term of probation. This took into account a prior related record.

  • R. v. T.G.2018

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon and common assault. The allegations were serious. Once I had reviewed the disclosure, I approached the crown to discuss resolution of the matter. After discussions with the crown, they agreed to withdraw the charge and allow the client to enter into a one-year peace bond. The client was left without a criminal conviction.

  • R. v. J.K.2018

    The client was charged with criminal negligence causing bodily harm and careless use of a firearm. The allegation was that there was an unlawful discharge of a firearm which caused injuries to the complainant. After lengthy negotiations with the crown, the client entered a plea of guilty to a lesser included offence of careless storage of a firearm. The crown sought a conditional discharge. I asked that the sentencing judge consider an absolute discharge. The court agreed with my arguments for an absolute discharge for the carless storage of a firearm, and the client was thus left without a conviction and without a criminal record. The remaining charges were dropped.

  • R. v. M.H.2018

    The client was charged with possessing a restricted weapon, careless use of a firearm, two counts of improper storage of a firearm and assaulting a peace officer. The client plead guilty to careless use of a firearm, improper storage of a firearm and possessing a restricted weapon. The remaining improper storage charge and the assault charge were withdrawn. The client received a suspended sentence plus probation for 18 months. A weapons prohibition clause was implemented. The client was also required to complete community services hours and pay a victim fine surcharge. This is a matter where the crown sought a term of incarceration to be served within the community. I managed to convince the judge that a suspended sentence and probation would adequately address the purpose and principles of sentencing and a term of incarceration within the community was thus avoided.

  • R. v. C.W.2018

    The client was initially charged with the careless use of a firearm. Upon discussing the matter with the crown, they agreed that the wrong charge had been laid. The crown agreed to amend the charge to the lesser and included offence of the unsafe storage of a firearm. I then asked the crown to consider referring the matter to the alternative measures program after providing them with materials in support of the proposition. The crown agreed, and upon my client's completion of the requirements of the program, the charge was withdrawn/dropped.

  • R. v. T.B.2018

    The client was charged with possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose and unauthorized possession of a weapon. After meeting with the prosecutor to negotiate the withdrawal of the charges, the crown agreed to do so, and all matters were dropped.

  • R. v. M.H.2018

    The client was charged with failing to comply with release conditions after consuming alcohol in contravention of the order. The order as originally in place relating to firearms offences. Initially the crown was not agreeable to referring the matter to a diversion program. However, with persuasion, I was able to have the matter referred, and upon completion, the charge was dropped, and the matter concluded without my client receiving a criminal record.

  • R. v. D.L.2018

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon. Initially, the prosecutor was not agreeable to resolution of the matter without a guilty plea and a conviction. After several negotiations with the crown, I managed to have the crown agree to withdraw the charge, and the client entered into a peace bond with minimal conditions. The charge was dropped. No conviction was entered.

  • R. v. C.F.2018

    The client was charged with assault, assault with a weapon, forcible confinement, uttering threats, careless use of a firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possessing a firearm contrary to a prohibition order, sexual assault and mischief. Initially the matter was set down for trial after a not guilty plea was entered. At the first trial date, I filed a notice alleging a breach of my client'’s rights. On the basis of that, a new trial date was set. Prior to second trial date, I filed yet another notice that related to breaches of my client's rights due to the lack of disclosure. Two days prior to the start of the second trial date, the crown stayed the charges. The matter was concluded. All of the charges were dropped.

  • R. v. J.C.2018

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon and uttering threats. The matter was set down for trial after a not guilty plea was entered. There would have been serious immigration consequences if he had been found guilty of the assault with a weapon and uttering threats charges. At the trial date, I was able to negotiate a resolution with the crown which allowed for a guilty plea to a lesser included offence of simple assault. The uttering threats charge was withdrawn. The client received probation instead of jail time, which the crown was originally looking for given the client's related record. The client avoided jail and avoided deportation with the resolution I achieved for him.

  • R. v. Y.Z2018

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon. The allegation was very serious and there would have been immigration consequences for the client if a conviction was entered. I was able to have the charge of assault with a weapon dropped (withdrawn) outright. The client was left without a criminal record and without a conviction.

  • R. v. A.N.2018

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon. The crown originally declined to refer the matter to a diversion program. I was able to work with the client to have her gather the necessary information and documentation that I then used to negotiate with the crown for a resolution that would leave the client without a criminal record. I met with the crown, and they agreed that on the basis of the information and documentation that I had gathered in support of my client's case, they would refer the matter to the Alternative Measures Program. Once my client had completed the necessary requirements of the program, my client'’s assault with a weapon charge was dropped.

  • R. v. E.C.2018

    The client was charged with assault, assault with a weapon causing bodily harm, and uttering threats. The allegations were serious, involving an assault with a knife and a significant injury to the complainant. Initially, the crown was initially seeking a jail sentence if the matter proceeded to a guilty plea. I worked with the client over the course of several months and was able to convince the crown to agree to an informal resolution of the matter. At the end of that resolution, the charges were all dropped, and the client was left without a criminal record and without a conviction.

  • R. v. M.H.2018

    The client was charged with multiple offences including robbery, assault with a weapon, assault, theft under $5000, failing to appear for ID and failing to appear. The matter involved a serious allegation as the complainant to the robbery suffered injuries. Despite that, the matter was resolved by way of a guilty plea to a lesser included offence to robbery, being assault with a weapon. All other charges were withdrawn, and the client received time served.

  • R. v. K.K.2018

    The client was charged with three counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking and possession of body armor. The charges were laid after a complex drug investigation. Upon receiving disclosure, I determined that there was likely no basis for the crown to continue with the prosecution against the client. On that basis, I approached the crown to ask them to consider dropping all of the charges. The crown agreed, and all charges were dropped. The matter was concluded successfully so that the client did not have to face potential immigration issues.

Cases in 2017

  • R. v. N.E.2017

    The client was charged with two counts of failing to comply and one of carrying a concealed weapon. The matter was set for trial. On the day of trial, he plead guilty to carrying a concealed weapon and one of the failure to comply charges. The remaining failure to comply was withdrawn. He received a conditional discharge and 20 hours of community service for a matter where the prospect of a conviction was great.

  • R. v. J.M.2017

    The client was charged with possessing a firearm contrary to a prohibition order and the careless use/storage of a firearm. The crown initially sought a significant jail sentence because the client had been bound by a prohibition order relating to firearms, and this was a matter where the firearm was discharged. Ms. Karpa convinced the crown to agree to refer the client to the mental health diversion program, and upon successful completion of the program, the charges against him were withdrawn.

  • R. v. M.L.2017

    The client was charged with mischief and possessing a weapon. Initially the crown declined to refer the matter to the Alternative Measures program. Ms. Karpa had the client complete some tasks and presented the crown with the information. On the basis of that, the crown agreed to refer the matter to Alternative Measures and the crown withdrew the charges upon successful completion of the program.

  • R. v. S.N.2017

    The client was served with notice of a prohibition and forfeiture of firearms hearing. Ms. Karpa was able to have the matter withdrawn and the firearms returned to the client.

  • R. v. S.G.2017

    The client was charged with sexual assault, sexual interference and assault with a weapon. The matter proceeded to a preliminary inquiry, and then to trial. At trial, the client plead not guilty. I worked tirelessly to ensure that the client received the best possible defence. Upon completion of the trial, the client was found NOT GUILTY. No conviction. No criminal record.

  • R. v. M.A.2017

    The client was arrested and remanded on multiple charges including assault with a weapon, assault, uttering threats, failing to comply with a protection order and failing to appear. A bail hearing was set, at which time he plead guilty, and was released with time served.

  • R. v. J.J.2017

    The client was charged with assaulting a police officer with a weapon and also ticketed for making a noise that disturbs another. The file was referred to Alternative Measures and upon completion of the requirements, the charges were withdrawn. Originally the crown was not in agreement with the referral, but Ms. Karpa made compelling arguments which convinced the crown to agree. No conviction. No criminal record.

  • R. v. K.R.2017

    The client was charged with uttering threats and possessing a weapon. Ms. Karpa was able to convince the crown to send the matter to diversion. Upon successful completion of the program, the charges were withdrawn.

  • R. v. P.D.2017

    The client was charged with uttering threats and assault with a weapon. Initially the crown would not agree to dealing with the matter by way of treatment and counselling. However, thy finally did agree, and upon the client attending and completing counselling, the crown agreed to withdraw the charges.

  • R. v. K.M.2017

    The client was charged on two different matters: one with assaulting a peace officer and the other was assault with a weapon. After many discussions with the crown surrounding the client'’s developmental issues, and with the aid of the client'’s many advocates, the crown finally agreed to stay both charges.

  • R. v. J.C.2017

    The client was charged with possession of a firearm, uttering threats and possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose. The client was required to attend counselling and upon completion of the course, the charges were withdrawn.

  • R. v. B.P.2017

    The client was charged with careless use of a firearm, theft, assault and unlawful confinement. Initially the crown was not agreeable to the matter being dealt with by way of counselling. However, I was able to negotiate with the crown to have the client take counselling, and a firearms safety course, and thereafter have the charges dropped. The client completed the counselling and the course, and the charges were all withdrawn.

  • R. v. K.A.2017

    The client was charged with uttering threats, assault with a weapon and assault. The matter was adjourned so that the client could attend counselling. The crown withdrew the charges upon successful completion of the sessions.

  • R. v. M.B.2017

    The client was charged with breaking and entering with intent, carrying a concealed weapon and failing to comply with an undertaking. The client plead guilty to the lesser and included offence of mischief under $5000 and the remaining charges were withdrawn. The client received six months'’ probation.

  • R. v. J.S.2017

    The client was charged with several offences, including possession over $5000, possession under $5000, possessing a break-in instrument, possessing a weapon, trafficking in property, driving disqualified, taking a motor vehicle without consent, failing to appear and failing to comply. The client plead guilty to several charges and the remaining ones were withdrawn. The client received a sentence of 9 months global, less pre-trial custody. That left the client with only a few months to serve. The client had a lengthy record for similar offences and would have faced a much higher sentence, but I was able to negotiate a reduced sentence.

Cases in 2016

  • R. v. K.F.2016

    The client was charged with assault, assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, and mischief (damage to property). This was a serious matter with multiple charges involving a domestic allegation. Because of the seriousness of the charges, the crown sought a conviction and a term of probation. Ms. Karpa successful argued before the court that the client should receive an absolute discharge. Ms. Karpa'’s arguments were accepted by the court and the client walked away with no conviction entered.

  • R. v. R.C.2016

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon (x2) and possession of a weapon for a purpose dangerous (bear spray). The incident occurred at a party, and an altercation occurred between two groups of people. The Crown prosecutor sought a term of probation for the discharge of the bear spray. Ms. Karpa presented an argument to the court for a conditional discharge, and succeeded. The court found the client guilty but declined to convict pending his completion of the conditions.

  • R. v. K.D.2016

    The client was charged with serious firearms related offences for possessing a restricted, loaded firearm. The crown agreed to a community based disposition on the basis of a plea to the lesser included offence of possession of a firearm without a license.

  • R. v. D.T.2016

    The client was charged with numerous firearms related offences. The circumstances were that the client was stopped by police while driving, and police located several firearms and ammunition in the vehicle. The firearms were not secure. Ms. Karpa reviewed the file in depth, and determined that there were several breaches of the client's right to be free from and unlawful search and seizure. Based upon her review of the case law, and her extensive work on the file, Ms. Karpa successfully argued that the charges should be withdrawn. The crown agreed to withdraw the charges. No conviction was entered. No criminal record.

  • R. v. D.W.2016

    The client was charged with firearms offences. The circumstances were that the client was pulled over by the police for a traffic stop and they police found a loaded restricted handgun in the client's vehicle. Despite the seriousness of the allegation, Ms. Karpa was able to secure a conditional discharge for the client. No conviction entered.

  • R. v. G.H.2016

    The client was charged with the robbery of a convenience store employee. The matter would have garnered a jail sentence of three years'’. Ms. Karpa was able to secure a reduced plea to assault with a weapon and theft under $5000.00 for a conditional discharge. The client did not have to spent any time in jail.

  • R. v. K.J.2016

    The client was charged with trafficking drugs (cocaine and marijuana), possession of a weapon (knife), and assault with a weapon (knife). Initially the crown wanted a jail sentence for guilty pleas to all counts. Instead, Ms. Karpa successfully argued for a term of probation. No jail.

  • R. v. J.M.2016

    The client was charged with multiple possession of stolen property offences, in addition to trafficking in property obtained by crime, possession of a weapon, obstruction of a police officer and multiple failures to appear/breaches of release. The crown sought significant jail time given the client'’s related record. Ms. Karpa successfully argued for time served.

Cases in 2015

  • R. v. L.M.2015

    The client was charged with numerous firearms related offences. Ms. Karpa secured his release with no case deposit.

  • R. v. S.M.2015

    The client was charged with multiple offences including possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, and firearms charges. Ms. Karpa secured the client'’s release with no cash bail and minimal conditions.

  • R. v. J.D.2015

    The client was charged with multiple counts of firearms offences, drug offences and robbery. The Crown was seeking 8 years in custody for these serious matters. Despite that, Ms. Karpa secured a sentence of 5 years in custody.

  • R. v. I.T.2015

    The client was charged with possession of an imitation firearm (pellet gun) and possession of a stolen vehicle. After reviewing the file, and realizing that the Crown did not have a reasonable likelihood of conviction, Ms. Karpa had the charges against her client withdrawn outright. No conviction/no criminal record.

  • R. v. M.C.2015

    The client was charged with weapons offences relating to a traffic stop. Ms. Karpa had the charge reduced to a traffic ticket. Criminal code charges were withdrawn. No conviction entered.

  • R. v. D.S.2015

    The client faced a firearms hearing allegation where the Crown sought to have the client prohibited from possessing firearms. Criminal lawyer Susan Karpa successfully argued for the return of the client's firearms, and the withdrawal of the matter.

  • R. v. B.C.2015

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon, and firearms related offences. Ms. Karpa got the firearm charge withdrawn.

  • R. v. W.B.2015

    This was a firearms hearing matter. Calgary criminal defence lawyer Susan Karpa successfully argued for the withdrawal of the matter. Ms. Karpa negotiated with the prosecution to drop the matter on the basis that there was no requirement for a prohibition.

  • R. v. L.M.2015

    The client was charged with numerous firearms offences including possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm with readily accessible ammunition (which carries a mandatory minimum 3 year jail sentence where the Crown proceeds by indictment). The matter involved a complex investigation including search warrants and crime scenes analysis. Ms. Karpa reviewed the disclosure (evidence) in depth, and made several comprehensive requests of the Crown'’s office for additional disclosure. In the end, the charges were all stayed against the client. No conviction/no criminal record.

  • R. v. B.C.2015

    The client was charged with a very serious assault with a weapon offence, and firearms related offences. Ms. Karpa got the firearm charge withdrawn. The Crown sought a significant jail sentence given the client's related criminal convictions. Despite that, Ms. Karpa successfully argued for ten days in custody.

  • R. v. C.M.2015

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon -– a knife. The allegation was that the knife was held to the complainant's throat. With significant work to get the client treatment and counselling, the charge against the client was dropped. NO criminal record. No conviction

  • R. v. T.N.2015

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon (knife) in a domestic incident. The charge was serious in that the client was alleged to have cut the throat of the complainant. Though the charge was serious given the nature of the allegations, Ms. Karpa secured a withdrawal of the charge. No conviction, no criminal record. The client could move on with their life unencumbered by a conviction which would have had a devastating impact on employment and volunteering.

  • R. v. D.Z.2015

    The client was charged with multiple charges of possession of stolen property, theft under $5000.00, breaches of recognizance, firearms offences, and failures to appear in court (over 15 charges). The client had a lengthy related record. The Crown argued for a lengthy jail sentence. Ms. Karpa argued for a short jail sentence. The Judge agreed with Ms. Karpa, and the client received a short jail sentence.

  • R. v. J.W.2015

    The client was charged with robbery and weapons offences in relation to an allegation at a restaurant. Ms. Karpa had the charges dropped outright. No criminal record/no conviction entered.

  • R. v. N.M.2015

    The client faced a charge of robbery regarding an allegation of using a knife to threaten a stranger on the street. The client had a related record for robbery for which they had received a sentence of one year in jail. Despite the prior related record, Ms. Karpa secured a plea to a two month sentence for the lesser included offence of assault with a weapon, and with time served, the client was released from custody the same day as the sentence.

  • R. v. K.P.2015

    The client was charged with possession of the purpose of trafficking (cocaine and marihuana), possession of weapons, breaches of release conditions and simple possession of drugs. Ms. Karpa had the charge of possession for the purpose of trafficking reduced to simple possession, and had other charges including impaired driving all dropped. The client received small fines as a sentence.

Cases in 2014

  • R. v. S.S.2014

    This was a firearms hearing matter. Calgary criminal defence lawyer Susan Karpa successfully argued for the withdrawal of the matter. Ms. Karpa negotiated with the prosecution to drop the matter on the basis that there was no requirement for a prohibition.

  • R. v. A.I.2014

    This was a firearms hearing where Ms. Karpa argued for the withdrawal of the application. Ms. Karpa succeeded in her arguments and the matter was dropped and the firearms were returned to client.

  • R. v. R.S.2014

    The client was charged with several firearms and assault/threats criminal offences in relation to a serious domestic assault allegation. Ms. Karpa used her experience with firearms related offences and had the Crown agree to withdraw all major firearms related charges and reduced the charge to carless storage and simple assault for probation.

  • R. v. B.B.2014

    The client was charged with multiple allegations of possession of weapons without a license. Calgary criminal lawyer reviewed the file and determined that the police had conducted an illegal search and seizure. Ms. Karpa used her prior experience as a Crown Prosecutor and her extensive background in firearms related offences to convince the Crown to withdraw all of the charges on that basis.

  • R. v. R.B2014

    The client was charged with a serious allegation of a home invasion break and enter/robbery and aggravated assault (stabbing). The Crown sought a substantial penitentiary term. Despite that, on a guilty plea Ms. Karpa successfully argued for a three year penitentiary term where the client had a lengthy prior related criminal record.

  • R. v. A.R.2014

    The client was charged with a serious allegation of assault with a weapon pursuant to section 267(A) of the Criminal Code of Canada. The altercation was caught on video. After Calgary criminal lawyer Susan Karpa received the file, she began preparing the client'’s case for a plea. Ms. Karpa had the charge reduced to simple assault (section 266 of the Criminal Code of Canada) and Ms. Karpa argued for an absolute discharge. The Judge granted Ms. Karpa's application. No conviction entered.

  • R. v. N.B.2014

    Client was charged with assault with a weapon, assault, and uttering threats. The incident involved an allegation that a knife was used. Ms. Karpa successfully argued for a term of probation versus jail for her client.

  • R. v. M.J.2014

    The client was charged with uttering threats, assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for a purpose dangerous, and multiple counts of simple assault. Ms. Karpa got the Crown to withdraw several counts against her client. For the remaining counts, although the client had a related record, Ms. Karpa secured a short term of probation for her client.

  • R. v. B.H.2014

    Client charged with assault, assault with a weapon and uttering threats against his domestic partner. The client received a peace bond and the charges were all dropped. No criminal record/no conviction.

Cases in 2013

  • R. v. S.W.2013

    The client was charged with assault with a weapon (knife), uttering threats and simple assault. Ms. Karpa convinced the Crown to agree to resolve the matter by way of a peace bond. The client thus avoided a criminal record.

  • R. v. D.S.2013

    Allegations of assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for a purpose dangerous, and carrying a concealed weapon (baton) were all dropped because of Ms. Karpa's vigorous defence of her client.

  • R. v. B.C.2013

    The client was charged with aggravated assault in relation to a stabbing allegation. Although the client had a related record, Ms. Karpa successfully argued for bail. The client was released from custody pending trial.

  • R. v. R.B.2013

    Ms. Karpa secured her client's release from jail for aggravated assault, two charges of assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and possession of stolen property even though the client had an extensive criminal record.

  • R. v. R.B.2013

    Client was charged with assault with a weapon and was released. Police arrested client on an allegation of a breach of his release. Ms. Karpa got the client out on bail for the second time.

  • R. v. G.P.2013

    Client was charged with assault with a weapon and uttering threats. The client received a peace bond and the charge was withdrawn. No conviction/no criminal record.