Great experience with this firm. Phil is the best and obviously knows what he’s doing. Ended up getting my charge dropped. Would highly recommend. – M.K.
My unique combination of education and work experience is an asset when defending against criminal allegations.
After completing a two-year contract with Alberta Justice and Solicitor General, I returned to Ontario to finish a Masters degree in Constitutional Law. As a Crown, I became accustomed to rigorous criminal litigation, often acting as lead counsel in cases involving expert witnesses and complex evidentiary issues. I have both prosecuted and defended a wide range of offences in various levels of court–from traffic court to jury trials. My courtroom experience includes cases involving:
- Arson
- Mischief
- Break and enter
- Robbery
- Theft (over and under $5000)
- Auto theft
- Fraud
- False pretense
- Extortion
- Assault (aggravated, assault causing bodily harm and assault with a weapon)
- Sexual offences
- Criminal harassment
- Possession of prohibited weapons
- Firearms offences
- Dangerous driving causing death
- Obstruction of justice
My work experience has left me with a thorough understanding of Crown protocol and the factors that must be considered in a decision to continue any prosecution, regardless of how serious the allegation. Understanding Crown discretion has helped me achieve terrific results for my clients at a very early stage. Also, being attuned to the Crown’s proof requirements in a wide variety of criminal prosecutions has proven to be an asset in criminal defence work. Knowing what makes for a successful prosecution is often the foundation for the most unshakable defences.
In addition to significant hands-on work experience, my academic background has also given me a competitive edge in the courtroom. Having recently completed an LL.M. in Constitutional Law, I am attuned to my clients’ Charter rights at every stage of the criminal process. This is particularly important in the context of impaired driving, where even the slightest breach of your rights can lead to an acquittal at trial.
What I have learned as defence counsel is that being a good lawyer is far more than legal knowledge and courtroom skills. One of the more important parts of my job is helping clients understand how the law and criminal process applies to their particular situation. Most clients I meet with have no criminal record and have never been charged before. My first goal is to make sure they have a thorough understanding of how the law applies to their situation so they can make clear and informed choices. There is, perhaps, nothing worse than fear of the unknown so I strive to make sure there is no concern left unaddressed or question unanswered after my first client meeting. From there, the work can begin on achieving a favourable early resolution or carefully preparing our defence for trial.
While my practice is now primarily in the Durham region, I often assist in the firm’s Lindsay and Peterborough offices.
From minimizing risk to vigorous litigation at trial, I strive to achieve the best results for all my clients. I look forward to being in your corner!
Free Initial Consultation
Let us explain the technical and practical aspects surrounding your specific charge and provide answers to your initial questions free of charge. 1-800-668-1657 toll free.
- Call to the Bar, Alberta, 2015
- Call to the Bar, Ontario, 2013
- LL.M., Osgoode Hall, 2018
- LL.B., University of Windsor, 2011
- B.A., Political Science, Trent University, 2007
- National College of DUI Defense (NCDD)
- Peterborough Law Association
- Lindsay Law Association
- Durham Law Association
- Ontario Bar Association
- I have a diverse record of employment—mostly relating to summer jobs in my university years. I have worked as a shuttle bus driver for a hotel, a taxi driver, a five tonne construction truck driver, an ecotourism agent, a summer camp counsellor and research aide at the Senate of Canada.
- I have lived all over Canada, including the NWT. I have also spent portions of my life living abroad. I lived in Pakistan for three years in the 90s and spent a year teaching English in Taiwan in 2008.
Philip Stiles is a lawyer and is licensed by the Law Society of Ontario.
“I see myself as serving two functions in the courtroom: defending my client and defending the justice system. Thankfully, these two objectives go hand-in-hand. In advancing my client’s case, I am also defining the boundaries of the law and the limits of state power.” – Philip Stiles
Recent Cases
Case Study: Sexual Assault in Peterborough
Mr. C. came to our office in a state of panic. He had been accused of sexual assault stemming from a sexual encounter with an acquaintance that he was adamant had been, at all times, consensual.
Case Study: Care or Control Over 80 / Impaired in Peterborough
It was clear to us that Mr. B.’s name had been searched before police decided to arrest him. In the time the search was being conducted, no further indicia of impairment were noted by the officers.
Case Study: Driving Over 80 / Care or Control in Lindsay
When police arrived on scene, Mr. K. was outside of his vehicle asking for police assistance. Officers then detected the odour of alcohol on his breath.
Case Study: Assault in Oshawa
Mr. F. panicked and pulled his wife from the car before chasing down the moving vehicle, entering the car and turning off the engine.
Case Study: Impaired Driving and Refuse Breath Sample
Mr. A. was charged with Impaired Driving contrary to s. 253(1)(a) of the Criminal Code and Refusing to Provide a Breath Sample contrary to s. 253(5) of the Criminal Code.
