Dangerous Driving Lawyer Toronto
Pyzer Criminal Lawyers is a criminal defence law firm in downtown Toronto. Since 2002, our dangerous driving lawyers have defended clients charged with dangerous driving and serious traffic offences across the Greater Toronto Area. A dangerous driving charge can result in a criminal record, a driving prohibition order, and in some cases, jail time. Our lawyers review the Crown’s case thoroughly and pursue every realistic avenue of defence to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.
Why Clients in Toronto Choose Pyzer Criminal Lawyers
Pyzer Criminal Lawyers has been defending clients against serious criminal charges in Toronto and across Ontario since 2002. Our team, including Jonathan Pyzer, Jasmine Mann, and supporting legal staff, brings thorough preparation, clear communication, and determined representation to every case.
Over 20 years of criminal defence experience in Toronto and Ontario courts
Available 24/7 — reachable by phone at any hour for urgent matters
Free case evaluation with no obligation
100% confidential consultations
Members of the Law Society of Ontario, the Criminal Lawyers’ Association, and the Toronto Lawyers Association
Thorough knowledge of Toronto courts, including Old City Hall, College Park, and GTA court locations in Brampton, Newmarket, Oshawa, and Mississauga
I retained this firm on March 25 after already experiencing a five-week delay in securing counsel. In the two weeks that followed, there was no meaningful meeting, no review of my matter, and no substantive work completed on my file. To the response: do you feel good about yourselves infringing on my human rights? I will file an additional form to up the monetary penalties. If you think you will get away with this utterly disgusting behaviour - you're wrong! Enjoy complaints at the law society of Ontario and Human Rights. Rip this company! I provided materials for a bail variation needed for an April 8 work requirement, but it was not filed in a timely manner and was only submitted the day before by a student. As a result, I missed my first work shift and faced disciplinary consequences. I was then advised the firm intended to withdraw, citing a “breakdown” in the relationship, despite there being no meaningful opportunity to establish one in the first place. Given the lack of communication, lack of progress, and resulting impact, this was a very frustrating experience. Human rights, civil ligitation, law society complaints and notification of criminal activity to the courts already submitted.
I had a very good experience whit Pyzer Criminal Lawyers, Jasmin was always so helpful to my case,and guide me on the right next steps. I really appreciate all the peace of mind and relaxed that she made feel about my case thank you very much
My family and I are so grateful to Jasmine for handling a case for us. Her professionalism and compassion throughout this hard time was greatly appreciated. We walked away with a win and she made it look easy. Hopefully we are never in the position to need her again but if we do she will be our first call. Thank you Jasmine
Excellent Legal Representation! I can’t thank Jonathan enough for his exceptional work on a friend's case. From the start, he was professional, thorough, and always kept us informed throughout the process. His expertise and dedication led to a successful outcome, and we are incredibly grateful. If you need a skilled and compassionate criminal lawyer, Jonathan is the one to trust. Highly recommend!
Jonathan is a realist and a man of few words, but he is absolutely a solid lawyer who fights hard to defend your case. He focuses on what truly matters and puts in the work where it counts. You always hope your case doesn’t go to trial, but if it does, be rest assured Jonathan will put in every effort to win. His cross-examination skills are top notch and he knows how to challenge the other side effectively. Highly recommend! Thank you for helping in this difficult moment!!
I am very grateful to my lawyer, Jasmine, for the excellent job she did handling my case. From the beginning, she was very professional, patient, and supportive during a very stressful time for me. She explained everything clearly and made sure I understood the legal process and my options. Jasmine worked hard on my case and achieved a very positive outcome. Her experience, confidence, and dedication really showed throughout the process. She always responded to my concerns and made me feel reassured when I was worried.
Jonathan is an exceptional lawyer who provides guidance and support with professionalism, care, and expertise. From start to finish, he led the process with clarity, patience, and confidence. I’m truly grateful for his support and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking outstanding legal representation.
Amazing lawyer, easygoing, understanding and helped me a ton, THANKS A LOT
Pyzer Criminal Defence Lawyers helped me get a case.The prior firm took a retainer, never communicated, never followed up and only communicated when I said I was taking my business to Jasimine and the team here. The prior firm took the retainer, didn't discuss the case and only begged and pleaded to keep the case and get it dealt with as he had family items going on. Seems like every review had that post further inspections and not a friend refferal. Jasmine, the paralegals and all the team very professional, following up every few weeks to check in, sometimes, just letting me know there's not any update. Fees in comparrision to other firms estimations were good The ONLY complaint I have about Jasmine and Jon is that there are not a lot more at the firm. Thanks J and J for getting this done.
I had never been in any legal trouble in my life but found myself in a situation one day where I was charged with two seperate things, both very different, Jonathan Pyzer worked with me for two years to ensure a favorable outcome for both cases. He even discounted the fees when one case dragged on for an extended period of time due to administrive issues with the courts. Mr. Pyzer is a consummate professional and I would reccomend his services to anyone in need of them.
We reached out to Johnathon over the phone regarding a legal matter. We subsequently retained him thereafter, met with him in person. He was very thorough and professional. Always returned calls or messages in a timely fashion and most importantly we were contacted by himself to let us know that the charges before us were completely withdrawn. Thankyou soo much
I was in a predicament where persons of authority were taking my truth and twisting it to paint me as a villain although I was the victim. Jasmine truly was my strength at an extremely vulnerable time in my life. She told me what would happen and was fully confident in getting the best resolution which was all charges being dismissed. Having being represented by Jasmine totally empowered me by transforming me from victim to victor. Forever thankful!!!
What Is a Dangerous Driving Charge in Canada?
Dangerous driving is a criminal offence under Section 320.13 of the Criminal Code of Canada. It is also referred to as dangerous operation of a conveyance. This is not a provincial traffic ticket. Unlike a careless driving charge under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, a dangerous driving conviction results in a permanent criminal record and a mandatory driving prohibition. The consequences reach well beyond the courtroom, affecting your employment, your ability to travel, and your standing in the community.
To secure a conviction, the Crown must prove that you’re driving, having regard to all of the circumstances, was dangerous to the public and represented a marked departure from the standard of care of a reasonable person in the same circumstances. A momentary lapse in attention or an isolated error in judgment does not meet this threshold. The departure from normal, careful driving must be objectively significant.
Dangerous driving charges in Toronto are prosecuted as criminal matters at Ontario Court of Justice locations, including Old City Hall Courts and College Park Courts. More serious cases involving death often involve more complex proceedings, forensic evidence, and expert witnesses, and may proceed to the Superior Court of Justice.
The Three Types of Dangerous Driving Charges in Toronto
The Criminal Code of Canada establishes three distinct tiers of dangerous driving offences, each carrying its own penalties. Knowing which charge you are facing matters.
|
Charge |
Section |
How It Is Prosecuted |
Maximum Sentence |
|
Dangerous Driving (basic) |
s. 320.13(1) |
Hybrid offence |
10 years (indictable) |
|
Dangerous Driving Causing Bodily Harm |
s. 320.13(2) |
Hybrid offence |
14 years (indictable) |
|
Dangerous Driving Causing Death |
s. 320.13(3) |
Indictable only |
Life imprisonment |
All three charges result in a criminal record upon conviction. The court may also impose a driving prohibition order. For the basic offence, the order can be up to three years. For dangerous driving causing bodily harm, it can be up to 10 years. For dangerous driving causing death, it can be for any duration the court considers appropriate, plus any period of imprisonment imposed. Our lawyers at Pyzer Criminal Lawyers are experienced in defending all three tiers of dangerous driving charges in Toronto and across Ontario.
Dangerous Driving Causing Bodily Harm
When another person suffers bodily harm as a direct result of the alleged dangerous operation, the Crown will typically proceed with the more serious charge under s. 320.13(2). These cases often involve additional evidence, such as medical records, accident reconstruction reports, and witness testimony. Getting a lawyer involved early matters here.
Dangerous Driving Causing Death
Dangerous driving causing death under s. 320.13(3) is an indictable-only offence with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Cases at this level frequently involve forensic evidence, accident reconstruction, and expert witnesses. If you or a family member is facing this charge in Toronto, contact Pyzer Criminal Lawyers as soon as possible — (416) 658-1818.
Penalties for a Dangerous Driving Conviction in Toronto and Ontario
A dangerous driving conviction comes with consequences most people don’t fully anticipate until they’re facing them.
Permanent criminal record: visible to employers, licensing bodies, and border agencies.
Mandatory driving prohibition: minimum one year for a first offence; longer for subsequent offences or more serious charges.
Imprisonment: a real possibility where injury, death, or aggravating factors are present.
Licence suspension under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act: separate from and in addition to the criminal driving prohibition.
Significant insurance consequences: rate increases, policy cancellations, or difficulty obtaining coverage.
Provincial licensing consequences under Ontario law may also apply separately.
Restrictions on travel to the United States: a criminal record can result in inadmissibility at the Canada-US border.
Impact on professional licences: regulated professions in healthcare, law, finance, and transportation may impose their own consequences upon conviction.
Will I Go to Jail for a Dangerous Driving Charge?
How Pyzer Criminal Lawyers Defends Dangerous Driving Charges in Toronto
Here are the primary defence approaches our lawyers examine in every case.
Challenging the Marked Departure Standard
The foundation of most dangerous driving defences is a careful analysis of whether the alleged driving genuinely met the legal threshold of a marked departure from the standard of a reasonable person. If the evidence shows the driving reflected a momentary error in judgment or an honest mistake rather than a genuinely dangerous departure from normal driving, there is a meaningful argument to be made. Our lawyers examine the police report, any available video footage, witness accounts, and road conditions in detail to assess whether the Crown’s evidence truly supports the charge as laid.
Pursuing a Reduction to Careless Driving
Where the evidence of dangerous driving is disputed or where mitigating circumstances exist, our lawyers may pursue a negotiated reduction to careless driving under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act. A careless driving finding is a provincial offence, not a criminal one. That means no criminal record, no criminal driving prohibition, and significantly reduced long-term consequences. This outcome isn’t available in every case. For eligible first-time offenders without aggravating factors, though, it represents a meaningful distinction that can protect your future.
Challenging the Crown's Evidence
The strength of a dangerous driving prosecution often depends on the quality of the evidence gathered at the scene. Our lawyers assess:
- The accuracy and completeness of police reports
- The reliability and credibility of witness statements
- The admissibility and interpretation of dashcam footage, traffic camera recordings, and surveillance video
- The methodology and conclusions of accident reconstruction reports
- Whether any technical evidence contains errors or omissions that affect its weight
Raising Charter of Rights Arguments
If police did not follow proper procedures when stopping, detaining, or questioning you, your rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms may have been violated. Depending on the nature of the breach, a court may exclude evidence obtained as a result, which can affect the Crown’s ability to proceed. Our lawyers assess every case for potential Charter arguments, including arbitrary detention, the right to counsel, and the admissibility of statements.
Building a Complete Picture of the Circumstances
Road conditions, visibility, weather, traffic density, the behaviour of other drivers, and any mechanical or emergency circumstances are all factors our lawyers examine. Where appropriate, we engage accident reconstruction professionals and other expert witnesses to make sure your case is presented with the full factual picture.
What Happens After You Are Charged With Dangerous Driving in Toronto?
Arrest or Appearance Notice:
You have either been arrested and released or issued a Promise to Appear or Recognizance requiring you to attend court. Take note of the document you received and the date on it.First Court Appearance (Mention):
Your matter will first appear before a judge at the Ontario Court of Justice. No plea is entered at this stage. Have legal representation before this date, not after.Crown Disclosure:
Your lawyer requests the full package of evidence the Crown intends to rely on: police reports, witness statements, video footage, accident reconstruction, and any other relevant material.Resolution Discussions:
Your lawyer meets with the Crown attorney to discuss the evidence, the applicable legal standards, and the realistic range of outcomes. Depending on the facts, this process may result in a withdrawal of the charge, a reduction to a lesser offence, or an agreed resolution.Trial:
If no resolution is reached, your matter proceeds to trial. The Crown must prove every element of the offence beyond a reasonable doubt.
Contact Pyzer Criminal Lawyers as early as possible. Getting a lawyer involved before your first court date means more time to secure disclosure, identify time-sensitive evidence, and engage meaningfully with the Crown.
What Happens After You Call Us
Free case evaluation: We review the facts you have now, explain the charge(s) against you, and give you a clear next-step plan.
Early file review: We start with disclosure, release terms, and the immediate risks in your case.
Condition strategy: If your release terms are creating serious problems, we assess whether a variation application is appropriate.
Defence and resolution planning: We map the strongest route based on the evidence, your goals, and the court process.
Court representation: We appear in court on your matter and guide you on when your attendance is required.
Wider impact planning: We flag work, travel, and immigration concerns early so they are not left to the end.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dangerous Driving Charges in Toronto
Dangerous driving is a criminal offence under Section 320.13 of the Criminal Code of Canada. A conviction results in a permanent criminal record, a mandatory driving prohibition, and potential imprisonment. Careless driving is a provincial offence under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act. It does not create a criminal record and carries lower penalties, including demerit points and fines. The legal threshold is also different: dangerous driving requires proof of a marked departure from the standard of a reasonable person, whereas careless driving requires only proof of driving without due care and attention. In appropriate cases, a reduction to careless driving may be possible.
In some cases, yes. Whether a dangerous driving charge can be reduced to a provincial offence, negotiated to a lesser criminal charge, or withdrawn depends on the evidence the Crown holds, the circumstances of the alleged offence, whether anyone was injured, and your prior history. A charge reduction to careless driving is one of the more valuable outcomes achievable in eligible cases. Our lawyers review the full Crown disclosure before providing a candid assessment of what outcomes your case may realistically support.
Yes. A conviction for dangerous driving under the Criminal Code of Canada creates a permanent criminal record that is visible on background checks conducted by employers, professional licensing bodies, and border agencies. It can affect your ability to work in regulated industries, cross into the United States, or maintain certain professional licences.
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the evidence, the specific charge, and the current court scheduling. A matter that resolves through negotiation may conclude within six to twelve months. Cases involving contested evidence, expert witnesses, or charges as serious as dangerous driving causing death may take eighteen months to three years or more.
Do not discuss the incident with the police without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to retain and instruct counsel without delay. Exercise it. Do not make statements about the incident on social media or to other parties. Preserve any evidence in your possession or control, including dashcam footage, photographs of the scene, and the contact information of any witnesses. Contact an experienced dangerous driving criminal lawyer in Toronto as soon as possible. Pyzer Criminal Lawyers is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (416) 658-1818.
You are entitled to represent yourself, but dangerous driving is a serious criminal matter. The Crown disclosure process, the rules of evidence, the applicable legal standards, and how resolution discussions with the Crown work. All of this requires experience that most self-represented individuals simply don’t have. Legal representation is a meaningful factor in the outcome of criminal proceedings.
Legal fees vary based on the complexity of the case, whether the matter resolves through negotiation or proceeds to trial, and the scope of work involved. Pyzer Criminal Lawyers offers a free case evaluation to discuss your circumstances, understand your options, and provide a clear outline of fees before you make any commitment. There is no obligation.
Speak With a Dangerous Driving Lawyer in Toronto Today
If you have been charged with dangerous driving in Toronto or anywhere in Ontario, including Brampton, Mississauga, Newmarket, Oshawa, Hamilton, or Barrie, Pyzer Criminal Lawyers is available to help. Contact us today for a free case evaluation — confidential, with no obligation. The earlier you speak with a lawyer, the more options we have to work with.
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