Criminal Charges

Summary Criminal Charges in Ontario

If you have been charged with a summary conviction offence in Ontario — such as theft under $5,000, mischief, simple assault, uttering threats, causing a disturbance, or failing to comply with a release order — the case will normally be heard in the Ontario Court of Justice. Although summary offences are the less serious stream of criminal charges, a conviction still creates a criminal record that can affect employment, travel, and professional licensing.

Our team, which includes an experienced criminal defence lawyer, represents clients at courthouses across the Greater Toronto Area, including Toronto, Newmarket, Oshawa, and Brampton. You can find the location of your courthouse on our Ontario courthouses page. We regularly assist first-time accused persons, newcomers, and clients who prefer to communicate in Cantonese, Mandarin, or Korean.

From your first appearance through disclosure review, Crown pre-trial discussions, and — where necessary — trial, we explain each step in plain language and pursue the resolution that best protects your record and your future.

How a Summary Charge Proceeds in Ontario

Most people charged with a summary offence are released by police on an undertaking or release order with conditions (for example, no-contact or non-attendance conditions). Breaching those conditions is itself a criminal offence, so it is important to review them with a representative as soon as possible.

Your first court appearance is administrative: no trial happens that day. The Crown provides disclosure — the police notes, witness statements, and other evidence — which we review with you before any decision is made. In many cases a designation of counsel can be filed so you do not have to attend routine appearances in person.

Since 2019, most summary conviction offences carry a maximum penalty of up to two years less a day in jail and/or a $5,000 fine, although the realistic range for first offenders is usually far lower. Outcomes can include withdrawal of the charge, diversion, a peace bond, a discharge, probation, or, in more serious cases, jail.

For eligible first-time and low-risk accused persons, Crown policies in Ontario support diversion programs and other resolutions that avoid a criminal record entirely — for example community service, counselling, or charitable donations followed by withdrawal of the charge. We canvass these options at the earliest opportunity.