Bail Hearings Lawyer

British Columbia Surety and Show Cause Hearings

If you are arrested for a crime, it is crucial to get representation from a lawyer as soon as possible — certainly before the bail hearing.

The Show Cause Hearing, more commonly known as the Bail Hearing, is second only to the trial itself in terms of importance. It is your first chance to hear and challenge the evidence against you. It is the first time you get to put the Crown Prosecutor to the proof of the allegations. It is the first time you can present your side of the story.

It is also where the issue of your freedom gets decided. If you are denied bail, you are faced with the potential loss of your job, home, and family as you await your trial. You will find it much more difficult to prepare your defence. You may feel pressured to simply “get it over with“ and plead guilty.

You cannot afford to be in that position. You need a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defence lawyer to guide you through the bail process and to conduct your hearing. Many successful Bail Applications are achieved well before the parties enter the Courtroom. I take the time to study the case and the law. I get your side of the story. I put together a plan to get you out of jail. In some cases, I can present an argument to the Prosecution which may result in them agreeing to reasonable bail.

Definitions From Justice BC Website

Surety

A surety is a person who agrees to be responsible for you by making sure you follow your bail conditions and attend court as required.

The surety agrees to pay a sum of money to the court if you do not follow your bail terms. A judge or justice of the peace may have to approve the surety and property or other assets the surety puts forward to back up the amount promised to the court if you do not follow your bail conditions. Examples of types of assets that can be used are money, bonds, stocks and property.

The surety’s employment record, family background and relationship with you are considered in deciding whether to approve them as a surety.

Bail is a possibility. But it is not a certainty. If you or someone you know is in custody awaiting bail, call or email now for a free initial consultation. If you act quickly, you have a much better chance of regaining your freedom through reasonable bail.

Call (604) 638-9188 for a free initial consultation.