Criminal Defence
Assault
Assault is any application of force without consent. It can be a fight, a domestic allegation, or something blown way out of proportion. There are nearly always differing accounts of what occurred. There are specific defences, or there could be circumstances which mitigate your consequences. As your lawyer, I listen to your side of the story and build a strong strategy based on my in-depth knowledge and experience with the defences available for assault cases.
Fraud
Cases involving accusations of fraud and white collar crime can be highly technical and complicated. I put my expertise to work to minimize the negative impact these kinds of charges can have on your career, your personal life, and your future.
Homicide
I have acted as defence counsel for many people accused of homicide, guiding them through what can be a frightening and confusing time. As your lawyer, I listen to you, I look to uncover any conditions that could influence your case, and I take on the criminal justice system on your behalf. Speak to me before you make a statement to police or enter a plea—professional advice early on can make a difference to your entire case, and your life.
Bail Hearings
If you or a loved one has been arrested and are currently in police custody, you have one chance to win your freedom through a bail hearing. You want the best lawyer on your side. I have extensive experience conducting bail hearings and having my clients granted bail. I work to get you released as soon as possible with the fairest and least restrictive conditions. This is your constitutionally protected right.
Narcotics Possession & Trafficking
Whether you’ve been charged with small-scale possession or a larger trafficking offence, the penalties range based on a variety of factors. You need a lawyer who is experienced in this area of the law, who knows how to navigate the options available for your defence, and who ensures your charter rights were not violated during search and seizure.
Sexual Offences
Regardless of what you have been charged with, I make no judgement on you. I believe my clients are innocent until proven guilty, and I will challenge the case against you in every way ethically possible. My job as your legal team is to listen to your side of the story, and advise you on the appropriate legal defences. I help you present your side of the story.
Person of Interest & Pre-Charge Advice
You may not have been charged with an offence, and you may not even be a suspect, but if the police want to speak to you about a crime, talk to me first. I’ll give you expert advice on how to handle the interview and make sure you are aware of your rights.
Impaired Driving
Drunk driving or drug-impaired driving charges could mean drastic consequences for someone convicted of a DUI in Nova Scotia. Recent amendments to the criminal code in the areas of impaired driving seek to limit your rights and increase the consequences. Fortunately for my clients, my expertise means I understand the intricacies of these laws. I build a strong defence and ensure non of your rights are violated.
Appeals
There are certain situations where the conviction or sentencing at the end of your trial does not have to mean the end of your case. An expertly presented appeal can change your life. You need an experienced lawyer who is committed to combing through legal details to uncover errors which present options to improve your outcome.
I not only have extensive experience mounting appeals, I have successfully had a second-degree murder conviction overturned by the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal and then defended against the Crown’s appeal in the Supreme Court of Canada.
Litigation
Construction Litigation
Due to the high complexity, risk, and finances involved in most large-scale construction projects, conflict is common and legal disputes are a regular part of doing business. My experience in construction litigation focuses on resolving situations outside of the courtroom, negotiating fair settlements, and successfully representing the best interests of my clients, their companies, and their employees.
Contract Disputes
Contract disputes require extreme attention to detail and an understanding of how to exploit the technicalities of contract law to your benefit. My preferred option is to resolve contract disputes through arbitration and to avoid the costly and time-consuming nature of a trial. However, there are situations where arbitration and mediation are not options, and in those cases, I will mount your case and defend your position in court.
I will fight for you by pursuing an acquittal through any ethical means possible. Take control of your future and contact me now.
peter@planettalaw.ca
902 407 5445
PH – 1533 Barrington Street
Halifax, NS B3J 1E6