R. v. R.S.S.

(Cochrane Provincial Court of Justice - Uttering threats/Mischief).  With Alberta's growing population, combined with a lack of infrastructure to support the number of drivers, the constant road construction projects that have seriously neutered the functionality of streets and highways along with a myriad of other stresses impacting citizens, road rage incidents appear to this Calgary criminal lawyer to be increasing over the last number of years.  RSS was charged with uttering threats and mischief in relation to a road rage incident where, through no fault of his, another vehicle RSS's brand new work truck. RSS relied on this vehicle to make living. Adding to the stress was that RSS was caring for a sick domestic partner. As a result, RSS was alleged to have punched and broken a window, while threatening the other driver. 

While this Cochrane defence lawyer has many complaints about Canada's criminal justice system, it is also fair to highlight that our system of justice is not without compassion. Baked into the compassion are resolution options designed to help accused people, in certain circumstances, avoid the stain of a criminal record. In my opinion, many of these options are laudable because they serve to address the rehabilitative ends of justice while helping some accused avoid a potentially life altering criminal conviction. Peace bonds are resolution options that are often used by the Prosecution to resolve less serious cases for persons who have no had a prior encounter with criminal justice or in situations where evidentiary issues militate against risking trial.

The Crown agreed to resolve RSS' case by way of a peace bond. RSS had a very long and positive background that include military service and charitable work. The Crown recognized the damage done to RSS' ability to earn a living after RSS' new truck had been damaged. The Crown also recognized that RSS was under some unusual pressures due to an illness suffered by a domestic partner. This case is a fine example of how the defence and prosecution can come to terms in some cases when the individualized circumstances of the particular accused are appropriate for consideration.

David Chow was able to save RSS a criminal record and expensive trial fees.

David Chow is a Cochrane defence lawyer with offices in both Calgary and Cochrane. If you are charged with any criminal offence in Cochrane, Calgary or the surrounding area, consider calling David Chow for a free telephone consultation. David defends all criminal cases and is an experienced Alberta roadside sanctions lawyer.