Provincial Offences Lawyer in Toronto
Protecting Your Record, Your Rights, and Your Freedom
Charged With a Provincial Offence in Toronto?
While many people think of provincial offences as “minor” compared to criminal charges, they can still carry serious consequences — from large fines and licence suspensions to a permanent record that impacts employment, travel, and insurance rates. If you’ve been charged with a provincial offence, it’s important to seek legal advice immediately to protect your future.
At Robert Geurts Law, we represent clients facing provincial and regulatory offences across Toronto and the GTA. With over 35 years of legal experience — including 12 years as an Assistant Crown Attorney — Robert brings a deep understanding of the law, the court process, and the strategies needed to achieve the best possible outcome.
Provincial Offence Cases Won
Clients Represented
Years of Experience
Understanding Provincial Offences in Ontario
What Are Provincial Offences?
Provincial offences are violations of laws enacted by the province of Ontario, often prosecuted under the Provincial Offences Act (POA) rather than the Criminal Code. While they may not always result in a criminal record, they can still have long-term impacts on your livelihood and mobility.
Examples of provincial offences include:
Traffic Offences
Speeding, careless driving, failure to stop at a red light or stop sign.
Licensing Offences
Driving without insurance, expired vehicle registration, operating without a valid licence.
Regulatory Offences
Violations of municipal bylaws, workplace safety regulations, or health codes.
Commercial Vehicle Offences
Hours of service violations, overweight loads, and logbook infractions.
What Are The Consequences?
Penalties for Provincial Offences
The penalties for provincial offences vary widely depending on the nature and severity of the charge, but may include:
Common Penalties:
Significant fines
Demerit points on your driving record
Licence suspensions or revocations
Increased insurance premiums
Seizure of goods or equipment
Court-ordered compliance measures
Aggravating Factors (increased penalties):
Repeat offences
Offences involving injury or property damage
Commercial vehicle violations impacting public safety
Non-compliance with court orders
How We Defend Provincial Offence Charges
How Robert Geurts Builds a Provincial Offence Defence
Provincial offence cases require a detailed understanding of procedural rules, evidentiary requirements, and the specific laws involved. As a former prosecutor, Robert knows how these cases are prepared — and where there may be opportunities to challenge them.
Common defence strategies include:
Identifying procedural errors or improper service of the ticket or summons
Challenging the accuracy of speed detection devices or other enforcement tools
Questioning the credibility or reliability of witness testimony
Arguing for reduced penalties based on mitigating circumstances
Negotiating for withdrawal or amendment of the charge
Every case is unique, and Robert carefully reviews disclosure, officer notes, and any available evidence to build a tailored defence strategy.
What To Do If You’ve Been Charged
Act Quickly — Protect Your Rights and Your Record
If you’ve been charged with a provincial offence, deadlines for responding are short and missing them can lead to automatic convictions. Do not pay a fine or attend court without first understanding your legal options. Contact Robert Geurts Law right away for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and possible defences.