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A sexual assault conviction can have life-altering consequences, including imprisonment, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and a permanent criminal record in Canada. Even a first offence can affect employment, reputation, and personal life.
Early legal representation is essential. The criminal defence lawyers at Mass Tsang in Guelph are ready to help you build a strong defence and achieve the best possible outcome.
Jeff Mass was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec. Coming from a family of judges and lawyers it was only a natural fit that his chosen profession was the practice of law.
Robbie was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. In 2000 he graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Science while studying human biology and actuarial science.
Heather Spence graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2006 with an Honours Political Science degree and a Business Administration minor. Heather graduated Osgoode Hall Law School where she received a Juris Doctor in Law.
Brian Brody was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois and has always been interested in social equality. Coming from a family of lawyers it was easy for him to choose the practice of law.
Alexei Zaitsev earned his law degree at the University of Windsor, with a heavy focus on criminal law. In his position with Mass Tsang LLP, Alexei practices exclusively in the area of criminal and quasi-criminal defence, as well as defending dog owners charged with offences under
Evan Sinclair studied law at the University of Windsor and the University of Detroit Mercy, receiving American and Canadian law degrees. Evan’s passion for criminal law was solidified after spending a semester as a student attorney working for the Detroit Mercy Criminal Legal Clinic.
Ruaridh McCartney is an Associate at Mass Tsang LLP. Ruaridh graduated from the University of Western Ontario in 2019 (Honours BA with a Specialization in Political Science). From 2019-2021 he attended the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom and graduated Juris Doctor in law in 2021.
Sehar Qureshi is an Associate at Mass Tsang LLP. Born and raised in Scarborough, she graduated from the University of Toronto (Scarborough) in 2017, with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Psychology. She then attended the University of Windsor where she received a Juris Doctor in Law in 2022.
Stephanie was born in Hong Kong. She graduated from University of Toronto with an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in Sociology and Book & Media Studies. In addition to her years of experience in operations management, legal administration, and customer service, she is also a certified interpreter for Cantonese and is fluent in Mandarin as well.
Lydia was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. She graduated from the University of Toronto in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts in political science, English, and history. Lydia has been working at Mass Tsang since 2018.
Over 1,000 cases dismissed or charges reduced across Ontario, leaving clients with a clean record.
We focus exclusively on criminal defence, ensuring expert representation in sexual assault cases.
Our team of six lawyers provides strategic, tailored defence based on years of courtroom experience.
Evenings, weekends, and short-notice appointments are available to support you throughout your case.
Transparent pricing with no hidden costs and flexible payment options to accommodate your financial situation.
Proven track record in successfully defending sexual assault cases in Ontario.
Average timeline from charge to trial, depending on case complexity and court schedules.
Consistently high client satisfaction, reflecting our dedication and professionalism.
All discussions and case details are secure, anonymous, and handled with the utmost discretion.
Read on to understand how Ontario courts handle sexual assault cases, the potential penalties involved, and how your Mass Tsang lawyer can work to protect your rights and reputation.
Sexual assault in Canada includes any non-consensual sexual activity or attempt to violate another person’s sexual integrity. Three conditions must exist:
Force may include physical, psychological, or implied coercion. Any unwanted touching or threat can qualify as force.
The assault occurs in a sexual context, taking into account circumstances, actions, spoken words, and intent.
Consent must be freely given and capable of being provided. It cannot exist if the person is intoxicated, underage, disabled, or in a relationship of power or trust.
| Type of Sexual Assault Charge | Minimum Sentence (First Offence) | Minimum Sentence (Subsequent Offences) | Maximum Sentence |
| Sexual assault (level 1) | None | None | 10 years |
| Sexual assault causing bodily harm | None | 14 years | 14 years |
| Sexual assault with a firearm | 5 years | 7 years | Life imprisonment |
| Sexual assault causing bodily harm with possession of a firearm | 4 years | 14 years | Life imprisonment |
| Sexual assault with a restricted or prohibited firearm | 5 years | 7 years | Life imprisonment |
| Aggravated sexual assault (level 3) | None | Life imprisonment | Life imprisonment |
| Aggravated sexual assault with a firearm | 5 years | Life imprisonment | Life imprisonment |
| Aggravated sexual assault with possession of another firearm | 4 years | Life imprisonment | Life imprisonment |
| Sexual assault without bodily harm | None | None | 10 years |
| Sexual assault of a minor under 16 | None | None | 14 years |
| Sexual interference | None | None | 14 years |
| Invitation to sexual touching (minor under 16) | None | None | 10 years |
| Sexual exploitation (person in position of trust/authority) | None | None | 14 years |
Applies to sexual activity without consent or minor physical harm. Includes unwanted touching, groping, or non-consensual contact. Even without visible injury, the law treats this as serious.
Covers sexual assault involving a weapon, bodily harm, or multiple participants. Includes assaults causing physical harm, intimidation with a gun, or coercion.
Aggravated sexual assault involving serious bodily harm, maiming, disfigurement, or life-endangerment. These cases carry the highest penalties, reflecting severe physical and psychological trauma.
Assess context to craft the most vigorous defence
Evidence that the accused was not present or could not have committed the act
Challenge the accuser’s identification or forensic evidence
Dispute allegations of sexual activity.
Present evidence proving consent
Argue the accused reasonably believed consent existed
Challenge breaches of rights during investigation
Negotiate favourable sentencing or appeal options
All discussions, case details, and personal information remain strictly confidential. Your privacy and dignity are our top priorities.
Contact a criminal defence lawyer immediately. Do not speak to the police without legal representation. Document all details and avoid discussing your case publicly.
Possible for minor offences, first-time offenders, or mitigating circumstances. Aggravated assaults usually result in custodial sentences.
Yes, a conviction generally leads to a permanent criminal record, affecting employment, travel, and licensing.
Average timeline: 12–24 months from charge to resolution, depending on complexity.
Sometimes, if the evidence is weak or unreliable, a lawyer can negotiate or present arguments for dismissal.
Penalties vary from probation to life imprisonment. Convictions also result in permanent criminal records and mandatory sex offender registration.
A criminal defence lawyer can:
Yes. Lawyers can challenge credibility, gather alibi evidence, and question forensic reliability. Successful defence may lead to dismissal or acquittal.
Do not speak without a lawyer. Request legal representation and document all details.
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