Assault charges in Alberta are taken very seriously and can carry significant legal consequences, even for first-time offenders. A conviction can impact your freedom, employment, immigration status, and reputation within the community. If you are facing allegations, consulting an Assault Lawyer in Calgary early in the process can help you understand the potential penalties and the legal options available to protect your future.
At Centobin Law Office, our Assault Lawyer in Calgary regularly represents clients charged under the Criminal Code of Canada for various types of assault offences. We understand how the Alberta court system approaches sentencing and how prosecutors assess aggravating and mitigating factors. In this detailed guide, we explain the different categories of assault, sentencing ranges, long-term consequences, and how we defend our clients in Calgary.
Assault is defined under section 265 of the Criminal Code. A person commits assault when they:
In Alberta, assault charges are typically classified as:
Each offence carries different maximum penalties depending on whether it is prosecuted summarily or by indictment.
As an Assault Lawyer, we carefully examine how the Crown has elected to proceed because it directly affects sentencing exposure.
Simple assault is generally considered the least serious form of assault. However, it can still result in a criminal record and jail time.
The court considers:
Even in minor altercations, sentencing can include probation conditions such as counselling, anger management, and no-contact orders.
This charge applies when the assault results in injuries that are more than minor or temporary.
Bodily harm refers to injuries that interfere with a person’s health or comfort and are more than trivial or fleeting.
The Alberta courts treat these cases seriously, especially when:
As your defence team, we work to challenge medical evidence and assess whether the injuries meet the legal definition of bodily harm.
Aggravated assault is the most serious form of assault under section 268 of the Criminal Code.
It applies when the assault:
Aggravated assault cases often involve serious injuries, weapons, or life-threatening circumstances.
In these cases, the Crown may seek substantial jail sentences. Early intervention by an Assault Lawyer is critical to building a strong defence strategy.
If a weapon is used—or even threatened during the assault—the charge becomes more serious.
A weapon can include:
Weapons prohibitions and DNA orders may also be imposed upon conviction.
Domestic assault cases involve allegations between spouses, partners, or family members.
Although “domestic assault” is not a separate Criminal Code offence, it is treated more seriously due to the breach of trust involved.
Courts may impose:
Police in Calgary often lay charges even if the complainant does not wish to proceed.
As an Assault Lawyer, we understand the complexities of domestic matters and work to protect our clients’ rights while addressing family law implications.
Alberta judges consider several factors when determining penalties.
At Centobin Law Office, we prepare detailed sentencing submissions highlighting mitigating factors to seek reduced penalties where appropriate.
Assault convictions can carry collateral consequences beyond incarceration.
These may include:
Even a summary conviction can create long-term challenges.
In certain cases, alternatives to jail may be available, such as:
Eligibility depends on:
We assess every available option to pursue the best possible outcome.
At Centobin Law Office, we take a strategic and proactive approach.
We:
Our goal is to protect your record, freedom, and reputation.
If you are facing assault charges in Calgary, contact us immediately at +1 403-249-1733 for confidential legal assistance.
Every case is unique, but possible defences may include:
If reasonable force was used to protect yourself or another person.
In limited circumstances, consent may apply.
Accidental contact does not meet the legal threshold for assault.
Inconsistencies or unreliable testimony can weaken the Crown’s case.
We carefully analyze the evidence to determine the strongest defence strategy.
The earlier we become involved, the more effectively we can:
Prompt legal advice can significantly impact sentencing exposure.
We understand how overwhelming an assault charge can be. Our firm provides:
We represent clients throughout Calgary and surrounding areas with professionalism and dedication.
Penalties for assault in Alberta range from fines and probation to significant jail sentences, depending on the severity of the offence and surrounding circumstances. A conviction can have lasting consequences beyond the courtroom. If you are facing allegations, consulting an experienced Assault Lawyer in Calgary is essential to understanding your rights and options.At Centobin Law Office, we are committed to protecting your future. As your trusted Assault Lawyer, we provide strategic guidance and strong representation at every stage of the criminal process. Call us today at +1 403-249-1733for immediate assistance in Calgary.
