Philip Stiles

My unique combination of education and work experience is an asset when defending 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
• Uttering threats
• Extortion
• Assault (aggravated, assault causing bodily harm and assault with a weapon)
• Sexual offences
• Criminal harassment
• Possession of prohibited weapons (tasers, switchblades etc.)
• 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 your in your corner!

“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