Sexual Offences
Defence for sexual assault and other sexual offence allegations in Calgary and surrounding area.
Facing a sexual offence allegation?
Sexual offence allegations are serious and can affect every part of your life — your family, employment, reputation, travel, and future opportunities. These cases often involve strict release conditions, no-contact orders, publication bans, and sensitive evidence.
If you have been arrested, charged, or contacted by police, early legal advice is important. Before speaking further about the allegation, get clear guidance on your rights, your conditions, and the next steps in the court process.
Types of sexual offence cases
Sexual offence matters may involve allegations such as:
- Sexual assault
- Sexual interference
- Invitation to sexual touching
- Sexual exploitation
- Child luring
- Possession or distribution of intimate images
- Breach of no-contact or release conditions
- Related digital evidence or communication allegations
Sexual assault is an offence under section 271 of the Criminal Code. Consent is also specifically defined in the Criminal Code as the voluntary agreement to the sexual activity in question.
What to do right away
If you are under investigation or charged:
- Follow all release conditions strictly
- Do not contact the complainant directly or indirectly
- Do not discuss the allegation by text, email, or social media
- Save relevant messages, call logs, photos, and documents
- Write down your recollection while it is fresh
- Get legal advice before speaking further with police
How sexual offence cases are defended
Every case depends on the facts, the disclosure, and the specific allegations. Defence work may involve reviewing:
Consent and communication
Many cases involve questions about what was said, understood, and communicated. The law around consent is specific and must be carefully reviewed in light of the evidence.
Disclosure and evidence
These cases can involve police statements, text messages, social media, phone records, photos, medical evidence, or witness accounts. Careful review of disclosure is essential.
Conditions and no-contact orders
Release conditions can be strict. A breach can become a separate criminal charge, even before the original allegation is resolved.
Charter and procedure issues
Depending on the case, there may be issues involving police questioning, searches, seizure of devices, or other procedural concerns.
Privacy and publication bans
Sexual offence cases often involve privacy concerns. Courts may make publication bans that restrict publishing or broadcasting information that could identify certain people involved in the case.
If you are unsure what can or cannot be discussed publicly, get advice before posting, messaging, or sharing information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Speak with a Calgary sexual offences lawyer
If you are facing a sexual offence allegation, do not wait to get legal advice. Early guidance can help you understand your conditions, avoid mistakes, and prepare a strategy based on the evidence.
Call Thomas Scholten for a confidential consultation.
This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. Contact a lawyer about your specific circumstances.