Questions & Answers
First Meeting with a Lawyer
Your first meeting with a criminal defence lawyer is a crucial step in protecting your rights. At Santarossa Law, we take the time to listen to your story, explain the legal process, review the charges, and outline your options. This initial consultation is confidential, judgment-free, and focused on helping you understand your situation and how we can build the strongest defence possible together.
It is important for you to bring the following to our first meeting:
- Identification (driver's licence, passport or health card)
- Release papers such as a Promise to Appear or a Summons with your Court date
- A legal aid certificate (if you have one)
We can help you understand as your case progresses through the criminal court process and I will be able to answer your questions about the charges you face.
Nothing. It is important during the first meeting that we both get a chance to meet and learn about your case before you decide on the proper lawyer to represent you.
Custody and Bail
If you've been arrested and are being held in custody, securing bail is often the first and most urgent legal priority. At Santarossa Law, we understand how critical it is to regain your freedom while your case is pending. Julie Santarossa has extensive experience representing clients at bail hearings, presenting strong arguments to the court for release, and addressing any conditions imposed. We act quickly and strategically to give you the best chance at being released from custody and returning to your life while we prepare your defence.
If someone you know is in custody you can contact our office and we can begin to work on their release. We will visit them in jail and get the process started on thier release as soon as possible.
Once our office has been contacted we can talk to the prosecutor to negoiate a consent release. If bail is required you will need to have a bail hearing where we will advocate for your release.
The court may ask for some assurance that you will appear at your trial and follow your conditions of bail. One of these methods is to require a surety. A surety is a third party who is willing to supervise you in the community and ensure that all bail conditions are met and court dates are attended. A surety may be obligated to pay a specified amount if these conditions are not met
Payment
At Santarossa Law, we offer clear, upfront fee structures and flexible payment options to suit your needs. We’re committed to providing high-quality legal defence that’s accessible and transparent.
We accept cash, cheque, E-Transfer or legal aid certificates.
Yes we take legal aid certificates.
You may qualify for legal aid. For more details on this program please visit the legal aid website.
Court Dates
Attending your scheduled court dates is essential to the progress of your case. At Santarossa Law, we ensure you understand when and where to appear, what to expect in court, and how to be fully prepared. Julie Santarossa will guide you through each stage, represent you in court, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Your first Court date is not your trial. It is the start of the trial process and administrative in nature. You are required to be present otherwise a warrant will be issued for your arrest.
You should arrive at least 20 minutes before your court apperance.
The Ontario Court of Justice is located at 200 Chatham St. in Windsor, Ontario. Our office is located just 1 block from the court house.
The Superior Court of Justice is located 245 Windsor Ave in Windsor, Ontario. It is across the street from the Ontario Court of Justice.
There is parking available on the street and in parking structures nearby.
This is a difficult question. Trial dates are set by the courts. Based on court availability the time can range. I will be in contact with you regularly letting you know well in advance when you will need to appear.