Courthouse: Ontario Court of Justice Hamilton
Counsel: Natalia Pawlowski
Date of Judgment: October 7, 2025
Background:
Mr. S was charged with one count each of sexual assault and sexual interference, with allegations that he touched the genitals of his former partner’s son on one occasion.
The Issue:
Counsel Natalia Pawlowski represented Mr. S at trial. After a thorough cross-examination of the complainant, then 14 years old, and his mother, Mr. S was acquitted of both counts. The Court agreed with counsel that there were major internal and external inconsistencies in the complainant’s account, which were amplified when considering the inconsistencies also present in his mother’s account. Cross-examination also revealed that the 14-year-old complainant was significantly coached by his mother in regard to his evidence.
Result:
On the whole, the Court found that the credibility and reliability of both witnesses was troublesome and that the charges could not be proven, resulting in Mr. S’ acquittal. He maintained his innocence throughout and was able to get his life back.