R. v. B.B.D.

(Cochrane P.C. - Assault).  BBD was charged with common assault arising out of a domestic violence incident in Cochrane, Alberta.  David Chow is not only a Cochrane criminal lawyer with his main office in Calgary, he makes the town of Cochrane home.  Though BBD was in conviction jeopardy, he also had many quality defences.  On the day of trial and despite having witnesses, the Crown offered to resolve BBD's case by way of a "conditional discharge". A conditional discharge is one of the most favourable sentencing outcomes based on a guilty plea. What makes a discharge favourable is that even though the accused is found guilty, no permanent criminal record will attach because the judge orders it to be discharged. Where an absolute discharge is one without conditions and thus more immediate, a conditional discharge results in the accused having to complete some conditions of probation in order to complete the terms of the discharge. Once the terms have been been fulfilled, the discharge becomes absolute. An important factor to consider in every discharge situation is that a non-permanent criminal record is reflected. By way of an automatic process, a conditional discharge drops off a criminal record after 3 years. In this case, BBD happily accepted the resolution offer because there was jeopardy of conviction and a much harsher sentence.  As a criminal  defence lawyer, it is very important to explore all options, including favourable resolution.  Researching Cochrane criminal lawyers? If yes, consider calling David Chow for a free initial telephone consultation.