Stern Shapray Criminal Lawyers offers strategic, discreet, and non-judgmental defence. We protect your rights, reputation, and future while examining every detail of your case, from consent issues to witness credibility and Charter rights.
Sexual Offences - Stern Shapray
Non-Judgmental Defence for Serious Allegations
Sexual offence allegations are among the most serious and stigmatized charges in Canadian criminal law. These cases often carry devastating consequences, including jail time, registration on the National Sex Offender Registry (SOIRA), and lasting harm to your personal and professional life.
At Stern Shapray Criminal Lawyers, we understand the emotional, social, and legal toll these charges can take even before a trial begins. We offer strategic, discreet, and non-judgmental defence for individuals accused of sexual offences in British Columbia.
We believe in your right to a strong, fair defence, no matter the allegation. Our team meticulously analyzes every element of the case, from issues of consent to the credibility of witnesses and possible Charter breaches.
We Defend Against Charges Including:
- Sexual assault (Section 271)
- Sexual assault with a weapon or threats (Section 272)
- Aggravated sexual assault (Section 273)
- Sexual interference
- Sexual Exploitation
- Invitation to sexual touching
- Voyeurism
These cases are sensitive and often based on complex, contested facts. We work closely with clients to understand their side of the story, identify legal and evidentiary issues, and build a focused defence aimed at minimizing long-term consequences.
If you’ve been accused of a sexual offence, early legal representation is critical. We provide a clear path forward and the experienced legal support you need during one of life’s most challenging times.
Trusted Advocates. Strategic Defence. Established in British Columbia Since 1997.
Founded over 25 years ago, Stern Shapray Criminal Lawyers is proud to be one of British Columbia’s most established and respected criminal defence firms. As the leading multi-lawyer criminal law firm in British Columbia, our team is known for delivering strategic, client-focused representation in a wide range of criminal and quasi-criminal cases.
We are dedicated to defending individuals at all stages of the justice process—from investigation and arrest to trial, sentencing, and appeal. Whether you are facing serious criminal charges or regulatory offences under the Motor Vehicle Act, Customs Act, or other statutes, we bring clarity, experience, and focused legal strategy to every case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Offence Charges in British Columbia
What is considered a sexual offence in Canada?
Sexual offences under the Criminal Code of Canada include a wide range of allegations involving sexual activity without consent or involving minors. These offences can include sexual assault, sexual interference, sexual exploitation, invitation to sexual touching, voyeurism, and offences involving online communication with minors.
If you are facing these allegations, speaking with an experienced criminal defence lawyer as early as possible is critical.
What is the difference between sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault?
Sexual assault involves unwanted sexual touching or activity without consent. More serious charges include:
- Sexual assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm
- Aggravated sexual assault, which involves wounding, maiming, or endangering the life of the complainant.
These charges can carry significant penalties and often require a strong defence strategy from a sexual assault defence lawyer.
What should I do if I am accused of a sexual offence?
If you are accused of a sexual offence, you should speak to a lawyer before speaking with police. Anything you say can potentially be used as evidence.
A criminal defence lawyer can explain your rights, advise you on how to respond to police inquiries, and begin preparing your defence
Can sexual offence charges be dropped?
Yes. Charges may be withdrawn or dismissed if the Crown determines there is not a reasonable likelihood of conviction or if continuing the prosecution is not in the public interest.
In some cases, charges may be dismissed during a criminal trial if the Crown cannot prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.
Do sexual offence cases always go to trial?
Not always. Some cases are resolved through negotiations with the Crown prosecutor. However, many sexual offence allegations proceed to trial because they often involve conflicting accounts and issues of credibility that must be tested in court.
An experienced criminal trial lawyer can help determine the best strategy depending on the evidence.
What are the possible penalties for sexual offences?
Penalties depend on the specific charge and circumstances but may include:
- A criminal record
- Jail or prison sentence
- Probation conditions
- Mandatory registration on the Sex Offender Information Registry (SOIRA)
- Restrictions on employment, travel, and immigration
Due to the serious consequences associated with sexual offences, it is important to speak with a sexual offences defence lawyer as soon as possible.
Can someone be charged with sexual assault even if there was no physical injury?
Yes. Physical injury is not required for a sexual assault charge. The central legal issue is whether the sexual activity occurred without consent.
Cases involving consent issues are often complex and require careful legal analysis by an experienced criminal defence lawyer.
What evidence is used in sexual offence or sexual assault cases?
Sexual offence prosecutions may rely on several types of evidence, including:
- Testimony from the complainant and witnesses
- Text messages, emails, and social media communications
- Medical or forensic evidence
- Video or surveillance footage
- Statements made to police
A defence lawyer will carefully review the evidence and challenge any weaknesses in the Crown’s case.
Can historical sexual assault allegations still be prosecuted?
Yes. In Canada, there is no limitation period for most sexual offences. This means charges can sometimes be laid many years after the alleged incident.
If you are facing historical allegations, it is important to speak with a criminal defence lawyer experienced in sexual offence cases.
How can a criminal defence lawyer help with a sexual offence charge?
An experienced criminal defence lawyer can:
- Analyze the Crown’s evidence
- Challenge witness credibility
- Bring legal applications to exclude improperly obtained evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Represent you at trial if necessary
Learn more about the firm’s approach to defending serious charges on our criminal defence services page.