Surrey Criminal Defence Lawyer
For over three decades, Filkow Law has represented clients throughout British Columbia who face charges resulting from criminal and driving offences.
Contact UsThe criminal defence lawyers and support staff at our firm have substantial experience in the Provincial Court of British Columbia and have developed a strong reputation for outstanding legal service. We understand that every case is different and every client’s concerns are unique. A Surrey criminal defence lawyer at Filkow Law will work together with you to pursue the most favourable outcome possible for your case.
Why Choose a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Surrey at Filkow Law?
When you face criminal charges, your choice of a lawyer can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. By choosing Filkow Law, you benefit from the knowledge and experience of a team that’s well known in the area for being strong negotiators who always put their clients first. A criminal matter can be a source of considerable stress and anxiety. Choose a lawyer who’s well-equipped to provide you with a robust defence.
Vast Criminal Defence Experience
The Surrey criminal defence lawyers at Filkow Law bring over six decades of combined experience defending clients against all types of criminal charges, including property offences and sexual assault. The firm’s collective understanding of British Columbia’s courts and procedures allows it to identify effective legal strategies and provide strong, informed representation.
Positive Results and Track Record
Filkow Law has earned a reputation for obtaining successful outcomes in complex criminal cases. Our results reflect our skillful advocacy, thorough preparation, and a commitment to protecting clients’ rights and reputations in every stage of the criminal process.
Client-Centred, Strategic Approach
Every case our lawyers take is built on a solid foundation of listening. We tailor our strategy to each client’s goals and situation, providing practical advice, proactive planning, and dedicated advocacy to achieve the most favourable result possible.
Multilingual Service: English, French, and Punjabi, Hindi, and Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese)
Filkow Law provides legal services in multiple languages, including Punjabi and Hindi, to better support Surrey’s diverse community. The clients of the firm benefit from clear communication, cultural understanding, and confidence that their lawyer fully understands their needs and circumstances.
Reach out today by phone to arrange a consultation with an experienced criminal defence lawyer at our firm!
Charged with a criminal offence?
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Criminal Defence Lawyer in Surrey Practice Areas
At Filkow Law, our criminal defence lawyers represent clients facing a wide range of charges in Surrey and throughout British Columbia. We provide knowledgeable representation, sound legal advice, and strategic advocacy to protect your rights and minimize the impact of criminal proceedings.
Criminal Driving
The firm’s defence lawyers are known for challenging police procedures, roadside evidence, and breath test results to protect clients from harsh penalties and licence suspensions.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault allegations carry serious consequences, even before a trial begins, and your case is still under investigation. Filkow Law provides discreet and skilled representation. We address both the legal and personal challenges these cases present while pursuing the best possible results.
Drug and Money Offences
We defend clients charged with drug possession, trafficking, and money laundering. Filkow Law examines every aspect of police conduct, including search and seizure practices, to build a strong defence and safeguard clients’ Charter rights.
Theft and Property Offences
Filkow Law represents individuals accused of mischief, theft, fraud, break and enter, and other property-related crimes. Our Surrey lawyers work to achieve outcomes that avoid or reduce criminal records and strive for rehabilitation and alternative resolutions when appropriate.
Assault Offences
Violent offences can involve charges such as assault, assault causing bodily harm, assault with a weapon, aggravated assault, uttering threats, domestic assault, and forcible confinement. The firm develops a personalized legal strategy for every case it handles.
How Can the Criminal Defence Lawyers at Our Firm Help You with Your Case?
Facing criminal charges can be highly stressful, especially if you’ve never been involved with criminal proceedings before. Filkow Law provides guidance and counsel at every step to help you understand your rights and options.
Initial Case Evaluation
The process begins with a detailed consultation to discuss the allegations and evidence and get your side of the story. Your legal team will explain what to expect and answer your questions to help you understand the immediate steps needed to protect your rights and build a clear plan forward.
Represent You with the Police
If the police contact or detain you, Filkow Law is prepared to represent you immediately. We will advise you prior to questioning and work to prevent self-incrimination or procedural mistakes that could affect your defence later on.
Explain Your Legal Rights
It’s important to understand your rights in any criminal case. Your Surrey criminal defence lawyer will explain the implications of your right to silence and right to counsel, as well as how to handle police interactions, undertaking conditions, and court appearances to help you make informed decisions throughout the process.
Build a Defence Strategy and Prepare Your Case
The firm will review the prosecution’s evidence, interview witnesses, and identify weaknesses in the Crown’s case. The lawyers at Filkow Law will tailor a defence strategy to your circumstances and prepare to strengthen your position before negotiations or trial.
Represent You in Court
In court, the lawyers at Filkow Law will advocate assertively on your behalf. They present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue legal issues with the goal of securing the best possible result, whether that means a reduction of your sentence, the dismissal of your case, or an acquittal at trial.
What Clients Say About Our Criminal Defence Services
With over 60 years of combined experience representing clients in criminal and driving matters in Surrey and all over British Columbia, Filkow Law has built an impressive track record of successful case results and satisfied clients. We are proud to stand by your side until your criminal case is resolved.
FACING A CRIMINAL CHARGE?
What Is the Time Limit to Respond to Criminal Charges in Surrey?
Most indictable offences have no statute of limitations, which means the Crown can pursue charges at any time. For summary conviction offences, the Crown generally must lay charges within 12 months of the alleged incident.
Once charged, you must respond quickly to protect your rights. Court dates and deadlines move fast after charges are filed, and missing a required appearance can lead to additional penalties. Your first court appearance may be as soon as the day you’ve been charged. Contacting a lawyer immediately helps you act within these critical time limits.
The Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in British Columbia
A criminal conviction in British Columbia can lead to serious consequences beyond fines or jail time. It may adversely affect your employment, your immigration status, restrict your ability to travel, and harm your reputation within your family and the community. If you are concerned about the possible consequences associated with a conviction in your case, reach out to Filkow Law today to discuss your case with a criminal defence lawyer.
How Much Does a Criminal Defence Lawyer at Filkow Law Cost?
The representation fees of a Surrey lawyer are defined by the unique demands of your specific case, meaning that all our services and costs are entirely tailored to your circumstances. The resources we deploy will depend heavily on the gravity of the allegations, the amount of investigation and legal argument necessary, and whether the matter proceeds to extensive negotiations or a complex trial. Because we provide personalized advocacy, this must be discussed after a detailed review of your case.
Don’t Waste Time! Call a Surrey Criminal Defence Lawyer at Filkow Law Today!
If you face criminal charges, there’s no time to waste in securing a strong defence. Let Filkow Law put our decades of experience to work on your behalf. Contact Filkow Law right away to discuss your rights and options.
Frequently Asked Questions
When facing charges in Surrey, getting immediate clarity on your next steps is vital. We have compiled answers to the most specific and frequently asked questions from our clients about criminal law and defence strategy in the local court system.
What information should I prepare for my initial consultation with a Surrey criminal defence lawyer?
You should bring all documents received from the police or the court, a detailed written account of the incident from your perspective, all related videos, photographs, and text messages, and a list of all potential witnesses and their contact information. This preparation allows your lawyer at Filkow Law to begin analyzing strengths and weaknesses immediately.
What is the standard procedure for a first appearance at the Surrey Provincial Court?
At the first appearance in the Provincial Court, you or your lawyer will confirm a number of administrative matters . It is generally not the time for a plea, but rather a procedural step to confirm a number of administrative matters. More substantially, early court appearances are generally adjourned for your legal team to review and obtain the Crown’s evidence to properly analyze the case against you.
If I receive an Immediate Roadside Prohibition in Surrey, does that mean I also face criminal charges?
No, an Immediate Roadside Prohibition is a provincial penalty enforced by the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles, separate from the Criminal Code charge of impaired driving. A skilled criminal defence lawyer at our firm can challenge the IRP itself at the RoadSafetyBC tribunal, while simultaneously defending any related criminal charge.
What is the difference between an undertaking and a recognizance release condition in Surrey?
Both are forms of release or bail. A recognizance is a more formal promise to the court that may require cash to be deposited or the involvement of a surety (a person who vouches for you). An Undertaking is generally a promise to a police officer and not the court.
If I am charged with a crime in Surrey, can I still travel outside of British Columbia or Canada?
Your ability to travel depends entirely on your release conditions. If you were released by police on an Undertaking or by the court on a Recognizance, your document may restrict you to staying in the province of British Columbia, particularly if you are a foreign national. A lawyer from Filkow Law can apply to the court to vary these conditions to allow for travel outside of BC or Canada.
Is there a time limit on how long the Crown has to prosecute me for my criminal case in Surrey?
Generally speaking, there is a time limit of 18 months for cases in the Provincial Court and 30 months for cases in the Supreme Court. In 2016, the Supreme Court of Canada held that this ceiling gives effect to the right to be tried within a reasonable time guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Despite this, cases below the ceiling can be dismissed for unreasonable delay, and cases seemingly over the ceiling may not be dismissed. The lawyers at Filkow can provide experienced advice regarding any delay in your case.
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Schedule
Mon - Fri: 8:00AM - 7:00PM
Address
13711 72 Avenue, Surrey, BC V3W 2P2, Canada
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Have questions or need immediate legal help? Contact Filkow Law today for a confidential consultation — we’re here to protect your rights.
