Child Offence Defence Lawyers in London, Ontario
There is no charge more serious — or more isolating — than one involving a child. From the moment an allegation is made, people may assume the worst, and the consequences of a conviction reach into every corner of life. If you are being investigated or have been charged, two things matter right now more than anything else: say nothing to police, and call a lawyer immediately.
Dominion Criminal Defence provides discreet, judgment-free representation for people facing child-related charges across London, Kitchener, Brantford, Guelph, Woodstock, and Cambridge. Every consultation is free and completely confidential. Call or text our 24/7 urgent line at (226) 984-7637.
What Are Child Offences Under Canadian Law?
Child offences are charges under the Criminal Code of Canada involving complainants under the age of 16 or 18, including sexual interference (s. 151), invitation to sexual touching (s. 152), sexual exploitation (s. 153), and internet luring (s. 172.1). Most carry mandatory minimum sentences on conviction.
These charges are prosecuted aggressively, and Canadian law treats the protection of young people as a priority at every stage — from investigation through sentencing. That’s exactly why the quality of your defence matters from day one.
- Sexual interference (s. 151) — touching a person under 16 for a sexual purpose.
- Invitation to sexual touching (s. 152) — inviting or counselling a person under 16 to touch for a sexual purpose.
- Sexual exploitation (s. 153) — offences involving a young person aged 16 or 17 where the accused is in a position of trust or authority.
- Internet luring (s. 172.1) — communicating by computer with a person believed to be underage for a prohibited purpose.
Allegations involving adult complainants are addressed on our Sexual Offences page. If the person charged is under 18 themselves, different rules apply — see our Youth Law page.
What's at Stake
Beyond the possibility of jail — including mandatory minimum sentences for many of these offences — a conviction can bring registration under the sex offender registry (SOIRA), court orders restricting where you can go and who you can be around, and lasting consequences for employment, travel, and family life. These outcomes are not automatic, but avoiding them requires a serious, experienced defence.
Under Investigation? What You Do Now Matters
Many child offence cases begin with an investigation long before an arrest. Police may ask you to come in for a “voluntary” interview, or seek access to your phone or computer. Do not agree to anything — an interview, a search, a polygraph — before speaking with a lawyer. You have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel, and using those rights cannot be held against you.
How These Cases Are Defended
Every case rises or falls on its evidence. The Crown must prove each element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, and our lawyers examine every piece of disclosure — statements, digital evidence, the investigation itself — for weaknesses, inconsistencies, and Charter violations, such as unlawful searches of your devices. Which defences are available depends entirely on the facts of your case, and we'll give you an honest assessment at your first meeting, not false promises.
Discreet, Confidential, and on Your Side
We understand that an allegation alone can feel like a conviction in the eyes of others. Our team, led by lawyers who practice criminal defence exclusively, treats every client with dignity and handles every case with discretion. If this is your first time facing any charge, our First Time Charged? page explains what to expect.
FAQS
Common Questions About Child Offence Charges
What is a child offence in Canada?
A Criminal Code charge involving a complainant under 16 or, for some offences, under 18 — including sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching, sexual exploitation, and internet luring.
What is sexual interference?
Touching a person under the age of 16, directly or indirectly, for a sexual purpose. It is one of the most commonly laid child-related charges and carries a mandatory minimum sentence on conviction.
Can consent be a defence to a child offence?
Generally, no — a person under 16 cannot legally consent to sexual activity with an adult. Canadian law contains narrow close-in-age exceptions, and whether anything applies depends entirely on the specific facts. Speak with a lawyer before drawing any conclusions about your case.
Do child offences carry mandatory minimum sentences?
Many do. Sentences vary depending on the charge and whether the Crown proceeds summarily or by indictment. A lawyer can explain the realistic range in your circumstances.
Will I be placed on the sex offender registry?
Registration under SOIRA typically follows conviction for these offences. Avoiding conviction — through withdrawal, acquittal, or resolution to a different charge — is the focus of the defence.
What if the allegation is false?
False and mistaken allegations happen, and they are defensible — but they must be defended properly. Do not try to “clear things up” with police yourself; that instinct damages more cases than it helps. Let your lawyer handle every communication.
Should I talk to police if they say I'm not under arrest?
No — not before speaking with a lawyer. “Voluntary” interviews are still evidence-gathering. Call us first: (226) 984-7637.
Can the family drop the charges?
No. Once a charge is laid, only the Crown prosecutor can withdraw it, regardless of what the complainant or their family wants.
What bail conditions should I expect?
Conditions often include no contact with the complainant and restrictions on places where young people gather, and sometimes limits on internet or device use. Where conditions are unworkable, we can apply to vary them.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes. Your first consultation is free and completely confidential, and our urgent line is answered 24/7. We serve London, Kitchener, Brantford, Guelph, Woodstock, Cambridge, and throughout Southwestern Ontario.
Speak With a Criminal Defence Lawyer Today — It’s Free
If you or someone you love has been charged with a criminal offence in London, Kitchener, Brantford, Guelph, or anywhere in Southwestern Ontario, don’t wait. The sooner you have legal advice, the better.
Call or text our 24/7 urgent line at 226-984-7637, or fill in the contact form below. Your first consultation is free and confidential.