WHY CHOOSE JCA LAW
Criminal Defence That Protects Your Future
A criminal charge can change your life in an instant. Beyond fines and jail time, a conviction can affect your immigration status, employment, travel, and family. At JCA Law Office Professional Corporation, we fight to protect not just your freedom, but your entire future in Canada.
What sets us apart is our dual expertise in criminal law and immigration law. For Filipino-Canadians, we understand that criminal charges carry consequences that go far beyond the courtroom — they can jeopardize permanent residence, citizenship applications, and even trigger deportation proceedings. We build defence strategies that account for every consequence.
OUR PRACTICE AREAS
Criminal Defence Services
We defend clients facing a wide range of criminal charges throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
Bail Hearings
Arrested or detained? We act fast to get you or your loved one released.
- Bail hearing applications
- Surety bail preparation
- Bail review & variation
- Consent release negotiations
Assault Charges
From simple assault to domestic matters, we build strong defences.
- Simple assault (s. 266)
- Assault with a weapon (s. 267)
- Aggravated assault (s. 268)
- Domestic assault
Impaired Driving / DUI
DUI charges carry severe penalties. We challenge every element of the case.
- Impaired driving (s. 320.14)
- Over 80 mg BAC
- Refusal to provide sample
- Dangerous driving
Theft & Fraud
Property offences that can lead to a criminal record and immigration issues.
- Theft under $5,000
- Theft over $5,000
- Fraud & forgery
- Identity theft
Immigration Consequences
Our unique advantage: We protect your immigration status while defending your charge.
- Criminal inadmissibility defence
- Deportation risk mitigation
- PR & citizenship impact advice
- Cross-border legal strategy
WHAT OTHER LAWYERS MISS
How Criminal Charges Affect Your Immigration Status
Many criminal lawyers do not consider immigration consequences. For non-citizens, this oversight can be devastating. JCA Law understands both worlds.
Permanent Residents
A conviction for a serious offence (punishable by 10+ years) can make you inadmissible under IRPA s. 36(1). Even a conditional discharge may trigger an immigration hearing. Your PR card renewal or citizenship application can be refused.
Work Permit Holders
Criminal charges can lead to work permit refusal or revocation. A DUI conviction alone is enough to render you inadmissible. Charges may also affect your LMIA-based employer relationship and future immigration applications.
Citizenship Applicants
Pending criminal charges automatically pause your citizenship application. A conviction can reset your eligibility timeline and, for serious offences, bar you from citizenship entirely under the Citizenship Act.
Why JCA Law is different: We are one of few law firms in the GTA that practice both criminal defence and immigration law. When we take your criminal case, we simultaneously assess and protect your immigration status — something a typical criminal lawyer may not do. For Filipino-Canadians, this dual expertise means we understand the full picture of what you stand to lose.
OUR PROCESS
How We Defend You
From the moment you call to the resolution of your case, here is what to expect.
Initial Call
Call us to discuss your case. We arrange consultations promptly and respond to urgent matters as quickly as possible.
Case Review
We review all disclosure, police reports, and evidence. We identify weaknesses in the Crown’s case and assess immigration impact.
Defence Strategy
We develop a defence strategy that accounts for both the criminal outcome and any immigration consequences you may face.
Court Representation
We appear on your behalf at every court date, negotiate with the Crown, file motions, and advocate aggressively for the best outcome.
Resolution
Whether through withdrawal, acquittal, peace bond, or favourable plea, we pursue the outcome that protects your criminal record and immigration status.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested?
Exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer immediately. Do not provide a statement to police before consulting with legal counsel. Call JCA Law at 1-855-522-5290 — we respond promptly to arrest and bail matters. You have a constitutional right to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions.
Will a criminal charge affect my immigration status?
Yes, it can. Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), a conviction for an offence punishable by a maximum term of at least 10 years can render you criminally inadmissible to Canada. Even less serious offences can affect PR card renewals, citizenship applications, and travel. This is why it is critical to have a lawyer who understands both criminal and immigration law.
How does bail work in Ontario?
After an arrest, you may be held for a bail hearing (also called a “show cause” hearing), typically within 24 hours. The court considers whether you will attend court dates, whether you pose a danger, and whether your detention is necessary to maintain public confidence. A bail plan with a strong surety (a responsible person who supervises you) significantly improves your chances of release. We prepare comprehensive bail plans to maximize the likelihood of your release.
What is a peace bond and can it help me avoid a criminal record?
A peace bond (under s. 810 of the Criminal Code) is an agreement to keep the peace and be of good behaviour for a specified period, usually 12 months. It is not a conviction and does not result in a criminal record. In many cases, particularly first-time offences, we negotiate peace bonds as a way to resolve charges without immigration consequences. This is especially important for permanent residents and work permit holders.
Can I get a DUI charge dropped or reduced?
There are many possible defences to impaired driving charges: challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the administration of the breathalyzer, the calibration of testing equipment, or Charter violations during the investigation. Every case is different, and we meticulously review the evidence to identify any procedural errors or constitutional breaches that could lead to a reduction or withdrawal of charges.
What is the difference between a summary and indictable offence?
Summary offences are less serious (e.g., causing a disturbance, minor theft) with a maximum penalty of 2 years less a day. Indictable offences are more serious (e.g., aggravated assault, trafficking) with higher maximum penalties. Many offences are hybrid, meaning the Crown can elect to proceed by either method. The Crown’s election has significant implications for sentencing and — critically — for immigration admissibility under IRPA.
Do you offer services in Tagalog?
Yes. JCA Law Office serves the Filipino-Canadian community with full legal services in English and Tagalog. We understand that facing criminal charges in a second language adds unnecessary stress. Communicating with your lawyer in your preferred language ensures you fully understand your rights, the charges against you, and every step of your defence strategy. No detail gets lost in translation.
DO NOT FACE THIS ALONE
Charged With a Criminal Offence?
Time is critical. The sooner you speak with a criminal defence lawyer, the stronger your defence will be. JCA Law Office is available for consultations and responds promptly to urgent matters.
We speak English and Tagalog — no judgment, complete confidentiality.
204-2323 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 2C9 | info@jcalaw.ca
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every criminal case is unique. Consult with a licensed criminal defence lawyer for advice specific to your situation. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Last Updated: February 2026