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DUI Case - Who Does What

Inside Your DUI Case: Who Does What?

Understanding who’s involved in your Ontario DUI case – and, more importantly, what each person is really trying to do – can make a crucial difference in your case’s outcome. As a DUI lawyer at NextLaw, I will break down these roles in a way that makes sense.

Understanding the Setup: Your DUI Case as a Boxing Match

Most people don’t realize that our criminal justice system is designed to work like a boxing match or MMA fight. Picture this: two sides fighting it out, with a referee ensuring everyone follows the rules. And just like in boxing, the referee often determines the winner.

This isn’t a random setup. Our legal system is specifically designed this way to ensure both sides get a fair shot. However, if you don’t understand who’s who and their true roles, it’s like walking into the ring blindfolded.

The Key Players in Your DUI Case

The Accused (You)

Your role is more complex than most people realize. You’re not just someone facing charges – you’re one of the main fighters in this match and need someone in your corner. This is precisely why having legal counsel is crucial.

The Crown

Here’s a critical misconception about the Crown that needs clearing up: they might be nice and seem helpful, but let’s be crystal clear – they are not your friend. Their job, their entire purpose, is to convict you. They’re the other fighters in this match and are there to win.

The Judge

Think of the judge as your referee, but here’s the twist – this referee doesn’t just enforce the rules. In most cases, they’re also the ones who:

It’s like having a referee who not only calls fouls but also picks the winner and decides their prize – or, in this case, their penalty.

DUI Case Roles - Who Does What

What This Means for Your Case

Understanding these roles isn’t just about knowing who’s who – it’s about navigating your case effectively. This knowledge has practical implications:

  • When you understand that the Crown’s job is to convict you, you realize why even casual conversations with them aren’t in your best interest.
  • When you understand the judge’s role, you recognize why court etiquette and preparation matter so much.

Conclusion

Now you clearly understand exactly who’s involved in your DUI case and what they’re really there to do. This isn’t just legal theory – this is practical knowledge that can make a real difference in how your case plays out.

Who are the key players in an Ontario DUI case?

The key players include you (the accused), the Crown (prosecution), and the judge, each with distinct roles that influence the outcome.

What is the Crown's role in a DUI case?

The Crown's role is to prosecute and secure a conviction, not to assist or defend you in your case.

The Ontario DUI Arrest Test

The 60-Second Ontario DUI Arrest Test assesses the nature of the arrest in order to determine if your charges may get withdrawn.

Do You Want to Keep Driving?
Dan Joffe, lawyer, partner Nextlaw Ontario

My team uses forensic analysis to determine whether your Charter rights were violated. If you have been charged with DUI, book a free call that can change everything

Do you want to avoid a DUI Charge?

My team uses forensic analysis to determine whether your Charter rights were violated. If you have been charged with DUI, book a free call that can change everything

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About Dan Joffe, Partner

Daniel holds a JD (LLB) / MBA from Osgoode Hall Law School & the Schulich School of Business at York University, Toronto. Dan is a licensed lawyer in the Province of Ontario.

The Ontario DUI Arrest Test™

The 60-Second Ontario DUI Arrest Test assesses the nature of the arrest in order to determine if your charges may get withdrawn.

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Next Law publishes these articles and videos as a service to our website visitors for general informational purposes only. These materials do not, and are not, intended to, constitute legal advice. You should not act upon any such information without seeking professional counsel.