Michael Shapray Blog

Featured image for “How to Clear Your Record: Record Suspensions Canada”

How to Clear Your Record: Record Suspensions Canada

A criminal record can follow you long after a sentence is complete. In British Columbia, it can affect hiring decisions,…
Featured image for “Conditional Sentences in BC: Serving Time in the Community”

Conditional Sentences in BC: Serving Time in the Community

When most people hear the phrase “jail sentence,” they assume it means time behind bars. In British Columbia, that is…
Featured image for “How Expert Witnesses Shape Criminal Trial Outcomes in British Columbia”

How Expert Witnesses Shape Criminal Trial Outcomes in British Columbia

Expert witnesses can make or break a case. In British Columbia courtrooms, a qualified expert can help explain complex science,…
Featured image for “Mental Health and Criminal Defence in BC: What You Need to Know”

Mental Health and Criminal Defence in BC: What You Need to Know

Mental health and criminal defence in BC concerns can intersect with the criminal justice system in many ways. In British…
Featured image for “The Duress Defence in Canadian Criminal Law”

The Duress Defence in Canadian Criminal Law

In Canadian criminal law, not every offence is committed freely. In rare situations, a person may become involved in criminal…
Featured image for “Your Right to Counsel Canada: Lessons from R. v. Sinclair”

Your Right to Counsel Canada: Lessons from R. v. Sinclair

One of the most important protections for anyone detained or arrested in Canada is the right to counsel. It helps…
Featured image for “Stand Your Ground? Understanding Self-Defence in Canada ”

Stand Your Ground? Understanding Self-Defence in Canada 

Canadian criminal law does not recognize “Stand Your Ground” laws in the way several U.S. states do. Instead, applies a…
Featured image for “Necessity as a Legal Defence in Canada: When It Applies”

Necessity as a Legal Defence in Canada: When It Applies

In Canadian criminal law, necessity as a legal defence in Canada is recognised as a narrow exception that excuses a…
Featured image for “Understanding Your Rights Under Canadian Criminal Code”

Understanding Your Rights Under Canadian Criminal Code

Being approached by the police can be stressful and confusing. This guide explains your legal rights under Canadian Criminal Code…
Featured image for “Top Defence Strategies in BC Criminal Law Cases”

Top Defence Strategies in BC Criminal Law Cases

When facing a criminal charge in British Columbia, the right criminal defence strategies can make all the difference between conviction…
Featured image for “Changing Your Criminal Defence Lawyer: When and How”

Changing Your Criminal Defence Lawyer: When and How

Facing a changing criminal defence lawyer is one of the most stressful and complex experiences a person can endure. Having…
Featured image for “Sexual Assault vs. Sexual Interference: Legal Differences in BC”

Sexual Assault vs. Sexual Interference: Legal Differences in BC

In Canada, offences involving sexual misconduct are treated with the utmost seriousness. While sexual assault vs. interference may sound similar,…