Managing criminal charges can a highly emotional and stressful time for those accused and their families. Cases involving theft, violence, or other serious offences can have a serious impact on the accused and their families. In high-stakes situations, individuals may feel inclined to lie or hide information to strengthen their argument. However, lying to a lawyer during your criminal case can harm your defence and your relationship with your lawyer.
Lying to Your Lawyer
It can be challenging for lawyers when clients provide or hide information. If a lawyer realizes a client is lying, it is their duty to inform the client of the possible consequences that would have on a case.
1. Loss of Credibility
If you misrepresent or hide important information from your lawyer, you may jeopardize your credibility. For example, a judge may question your honesty if you withhold or provide incorrect information in court documents. This can lead the judge to doubt or reject your testimony.
2. Delay
Lying to your lawyer could cause the legal process to be delayed. If false information is found, the Crown might request more paperwork, which takes time.Your lawyer might also need to update inaccurate information, which would delay the proceedings and increase your legal costs.
3. Legal Penalties
There could be major legal consequences if you lie to your lawyer and they use that material to introduce testimony in court that differs from the truth. In Ontario, one may face charges of perjury or obstruction of justice if they provide false information to the authorities or in court. Section 132 of the Criminal Code states that perjury is if one is knowingly lying or making a false statement under oath which comes with a potential senetence of up to a maximum of 14-years imprisonment. These consequences highlight the serious legal risks associated with dishonesty in legal proceedings.
Will My Lawyer Ask Me to Admit Guilt?
In order to provide a strong defence, it is essential to give a detailed explanation of the situation. An accused admitting guilt to their lawyer might significantly limit defence tactics for those facing serious charges such as murder or assault. Rather than focusing on whether an indiviudal is guilty or innocent, lawyers put more of an emphasis on defending the rights of their clients and developing strong legal strategies. Creating a solid defence plan that is specific to your situation requires open communication between you and your lawyer which is always protected by lawyer-client confidentiality barring exceptional circumstances.
Do You Need to Speak to a Lawyer?
If you need to speak to a lawyer, reach out to Collett Read LLP for a confidential consultation today. Visit our contact page or call us at (905) 541-2228. Let us help you navigate through this difficult time.