R. v. N.I.

(Calgary Court of Justice - Assault/Uttering threats). Sometimes ordinarily good and law abiding people find themselves in a difficult situation. NI's case was precisely this kind of case. Unfortunately, NI had consumed alcohol in combination with prescription medications. As a result, NI became very emotional and in so doing, threatened suicide. A domestic pattern contacted EMS and police for assistance. When EMS arrived at the apartment and wanted to enter, NI made some threatening remarks and resisted entry by the paramedics. This resulted in a brief struggle. Ultimately NI was charged with uttering threats and assault. NI was also transported the Rockyview Hospital for psychiatric assessment.  After the effects of the medication and alcohol had worn-off NI was released. 

Similar to many accused, NI felt terribly about the behaviour that led to the incident. As a result, NI self admitted into counselling in an attempt to self-address the issue. 

The efforts and responsibility of NI did not go unnoticed by the Crown Prosecutor. As a result of NI's post offence responsible conduct, the Crown agreed to resolve the case without a criminal record -- by way of a common law peace bond. 

A common law peace bond is a resolution option available in circumstances where the prosecution has reasonable grounds to believe that the accused may breach the peace. This type of resolution is often used because it allows a response by prosecution services that can reduce the burden on the administration of justice as well as the burden on the accused to shoulder the stress and financial costs of a trial. 

In NI's circumstances, peace bond was an appropriate outcome. The terms of the peace bond required NI to continue with counselling. 

David Chow is a Calgary criminal lawyer who runs a small boutique law practice. David never takes more cases than he can properly manage and always makes every effort to conclude cases without the client receiving a criminal record and while being sensitive to the client's financial circumstances. There are many Calgary criminal lawyers to choose from. If you have been charged with an offence of violence, it is important to hire the right criminal defence lawyer for you.