Leading Winnipeg Assault Defense Lawyers
Assault and Violent Crimes Charges
Facing assault or violent crime charges in Manitoba?
Whether the allegation involves a bar fight, a domestic dispute, or something more serious, these charges can carry lasting consequences—including jail time, a criminal record, and restrictions on your liberty. We're here to help you protect your rights and your future.
What Is Assault?
In Canadian law, assault isn’t limited to physical injury. You can be charged even if no one is hurt—or even touched.
An assault occurs when someone:
Intentionally applies force to another person without consent, or
Threatens to do so, causing the other person to fear for their safety
This means that a shove, a raised fist, or even verbal threats may be enough for police to lay a charge. These cases often come down to one person’s word against another’s. A skilled defence can make all the difference.
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Often referred to as "common assault," this involves minor physical force or threats. It’s one of the most frequent criminal charges in Manitoba. Even without visible injuries, a conviction can result in a criminal record, fines, probation, or jail time.
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This charge applies when the alleged victim suffers a physical injury—bruises, cuts, or worse. The Crown may proceed by summary or indictable offence, depending on the severity, which affects sentencing options.
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You don’t have to use a traditional weapon to face this charge. Everyday objects—like a phone, belt, or even a shoe—can qualify. These charges are treated more seriously and carry harsher penalties.
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This is among the most serious forms of assault. It involves wounding, maiming, disfiguring, or endangering the life of another person. Aggravated assault is always treated as an indictable offence, with potential for lengthy prison time.
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Any form of unwanted sexual touching or contact can lead to sexual assault charges. These cases are complex and highly sensitive, often turning on the details of consent, context, and credibility. Convictions can lead to jail time and mandatory registration on the sex offender registry.
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This charge includes any force, resistance, or obstruction involving law enforcement while they’re carrying out their duties. Courts take these offences especially seriously.
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Domestic assault is when someone is accused of either threatening, intimidating, or physically harming their partner. If your matter involves violence in the context of a domestic situation i.e. a child, parent, sibling, wife, girlfriend, or common-law spouse; the police, prosecutors, and judges take such allegations VERY seriously. The stakes are high, and early legal advice is critical.
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We also defend clients charged with:
Choking or strangulation
Uttering threats
Robbery
Forcible confinement or kidnapping
Obstruction of justice
Break and enter to commit assault
Why These Charges Are So Serious
Violent crime charges carry serious legal consequences, including:
Jail or prison time
Criminal record
Immigration or travel restrictions
Loss of employment or housing opportunities
Restrictions on parenting or child custody
Even if the incident feels like a misunderstanding or was blown out of proportion, it's essential to get legal advice before speaking to police or appearing in court.
How We Defend Assault and Violent Crime Charges
We've successfully defended hundreds of assault and violent offence cases across Manitoba, ranging from simple assault to aggravated offences and allegations involving police or weapons. Our team builds a tailored defence by:
Analyzing the strength of the Crown’s case
Assessing the credibility of witnesses and reliability of evidence
Investigating self-defence or defence of others
Exploring alternative resolutions, including peace bonds or diversion
Fighting for acquittal at trial when necessary
This is a highly complex area of law and our team has deep experience to help you navigate it. We build smart, strategic defences that reflect the full context of your case.
Book a Free Consultation
Charged with assault or a violent crime? Don’t wait. The earlier you speak with a lawyer, the more options you may have.