Toronto Sexual Assault Lawyer

Serious Allegations Demand Serious Defence

Sexual assault under the Criminal Code can encompass some of the most serious offences a person can face, and a conviction carries lasting consequences for liberty, reputation, employment, and family. At the same time, many innocent people are accused, and an allegation is not proof. The role of defence counsel is to examine the evidence with care, identify the valid defences available, and hold the Crown to its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. An acquittal is the first and most important step toward repairing a damaged reputation.

A Record of Results

Although it is uncommon to have sexual assault charges dropped completely, Robb MacDonald has achieved that outcome. In R v. Khalandarzada, his client was charged with sexually assaulting a stranger after allegedly entering the complainant's home. Facing strong Crown evidence, Robb negotiated with the Crown Attorney's office and secured the withdrawal of all sexual assault charges against his client.

In R v. Olascoaga, the accused was charged with sexual assault arising from allegations of non-consensual sex at a party. Because the accused was a foreign national considered a flight risk, he was denied bail and spent more than a year in custody awaiting trial. At trial, Robb exposed inconsistencies and significant credibility problems in the complainant's testimony, and through cross-examination revealed a possible motive to fabricate. After a trial spanning roughly three months, the accused was acquitted of all charges.

An acquittal is the first step to repairing one's reputation.

Building Your Defence

Sexual assault cases frequently turn on consent, credibility, and reliability, and they are governed by specialized rules of evidence and procedure. Counsel must interview the client carefully to understand the full context, obtain and analyze complete disclosure, and prepare a cross-examination that fairly tests the complainant's account. Issues such as the timing of the complaint, prior communications, and inconsistencies in the narrative can all be significant.

Robb works closely with each client throughout the process, preparing thoroughly and advocating with both skill and discretion. If you have been charged with sexual assault, contact Robb for a free, confidential consultation as early as possible. The strongest defences are built on careful preparation that begins right away.