Bytensky Shikhman Barristers
Toronto Criminal Law Firm
We Are Your Front Line Defence.
Bytensky Shikhman Barristers
Toronto Criminal Law Firm
We Are Your Front Line Defence.
Reviews on Google
4.7 Stars
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Are you struggling and need help from a criminal lawyer? One quick phone call and we can get started on your case.
About Bytensky Shikhman Barristers
Bytensky Shikhman Barristers
Toronto Criminal Law Firm
Bytensky Shikhman Criminal Lawyers is a boutique law firm focusing on providing exceptional representation to individuals and corporations charged with criminal offences.
The criminal lawyers of BSB collectively possess a wealth of experience in the criminal justice system conducting trials and appeals at every level of court in Ontario and at the Supreme Court of Canada. Our criminal lawyers in Toronto have also been sought out by clients outside of Ontario to represent them on cases of particular complexity or importance in other provinces.
The partners at the firm are deeply committed to criminal law and the justice system as a whole. Boris Bytensky is the current President of the Criminal Lawyers’ Association, the largest organization of criminal lawyers in Canada. The CLA is known widely as “The Voice of the Defence Bar” and is seen as the key partner for all criminal justice system stakeholders in its commitment to the administration of criminal justice.
Services
Expert Defence for
All Criminal Offences
our strength and our key
Meet Your Team
Boris Bytensky LL.B
Partner at Bytensky Shikhman Criminal Law Firm
Boris Bytensky received his LL.B from Osgoode Hall Law School and proceeded to summer, article and associate at a prestigious Bay Street firm before starting his private practice.
Sonya Shikhman LL.B
Partner at Bytensky Shikhman Criminal Law Firm
Sonya Shikhman holds an Hon B.A. in both History and Law & Society from York University and received her LL.B. from Osgoode Hall Law School.
Dylan Gold J.D.
Associate at Bytensky Shikhman Criminal Law Firm
A graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School, Dylan was called to the bar in 2025.
Safiya Dossa J.D.
Associate at Bytensky Shikhman Criminal Law Firm
Safiya has a Canadian and American law degree from the University of Windsor and University of Detroit Mercy
Verified Reviews
What Clients Say About Us?
When you hire our firm to manage your case, you have hired a team of legal advocates who care, who will keep you informed, who will fight for you
Our Lawyers In The Media
The partners and lawyers at Bytensky Shikhman Barristers are regularly called upon by the media to provide commentary and legal opinion. Mr. Bytensky and Ms. Shikhman are the official legal analysts for CTV News and Newstalk 1010.
Sonya Shikhman at CTV NEWS
Lawyer Boris Bytensky delves into legal reasoning for attempted murder verdict
Sonya Shikhman Discusses Via Rail Terror Case in Toronto
Boris Byensky at NewsTalk10101’s The Jerry Agar Show
FAQs
What You Need
to Know
Have questions about criminal charges or the legal process? We’ve answered some of the most common concerns our clients face.
1. What kinds of criminal charges do you handle?
We handle a broad range of criminal cases, from assault, DUI, and fraud to drug offences, theft, appeals, extradition, and breaches of court orders.
2. What should I expect in my first consultation?
A one-hour meeting where lawyers review your charges, gather details, assess your case, and explain options, timelines, and costs.
3. What happens if I am convicted, can you help with appeals?
We handle appeals at all court levels, including bail pending appeal or sentence reduction, but stress strict deadlines and realistic chances of success.
4. How much will hiring a criminal law firm cost?
No fixed fee; costs depend on case complexity. Expect an initial consultation fee, a retainer, and possible hourly or fixed fees, plus extra expenses like experts or transcripts.
5. Criminal Defence in Toronto: Legal Strategy, Court Process, and Representation
Lawyers for Criminal Cases (And How to Choose the Right One)
Selecting the right legal representation is the most critical decision you will make when facing criminal charges. Experienced lawyers for criminal cases do more than just appear in court; we meticulously review disclosure, identify breaches of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and build a legal strategy aimed at acquittal or the withdrawal of charges. At Bytensky Shikhman, our partners—including Boris Bytensky and Sonya Shikhman—handle complex matters ranging from indictable offences to summary convictions. Whether negotiating a plea bargaining resolution with the Crown Attorney or providing fierce trial advocacy in the Superior Court of Justice, we serve as your front-line defence.
Criminal Solicitors: What is Their Role in Your Defence?
Criminal solicitors provide essential legal advice and advocacy from the moment of arrest through to the final verdict. As highly trained defence counsel, our role involves navigating the complex rules of criminal jurisprudence to protect your liberty. This includes representing you during judicial interim release (bail), conducting pre-trial conferences, and managing resolution meetings with the prosecution. Both partners at our firm are graduates of Osgoode Hall Law School and bring decades of courtroom experience to your file. Whether you need police station advice following an interaction with the Toronto Police Service or representation at the Supreme Court of Canada, our team ensures your rights protection is paramount.
Criminal Case Lawyers Near Me – Finding Local Help Fast
When searching for criminal case lawyers near me, proximity and speed are vital, especially if you or a loved one is in police custody. Local counsel understands the specific procedures at courthouses like Old City Hall or the Brampton Courthouse. We provide urgent assistance for individuals facing arrest warrants or dealing with an active criminal investigation. Our firm operates across the Greater Toronto Area, offering immediate legal consultation to establish your defence strategy. Whether the charge involves impaired driving, domestic assault, or fraud defence, knowing the local judges and Crown Attorneys can influence outcomes like diversion program eligibility.
Why Choose a Boutique Criminal Law Firm?
A boutique criminal law firm like Bytensky Shikhman Barristers offers a level of personalized attention that high-volume practices cannot match. Instead of being passed between junior associates, you benefit from the direct oversight of senior counsel like Boris Bytensky, the President of the Criminal Lawyers' Association. We specialize in complex litigation and high-profile cases where media management is often as critical as the legal defence. Our legal expertise covers both individual and corporate defence, ensuring a comprehensive approach to all criminal proceedings. We invite you to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your matter.
Criminal Defence Law Firm: Your Front Line Defence
As a premier criminal defence law firm, we focus on securing the best possible result, whether that is a charge withdrawal, an absolute discharge, or a peace bond. Our partners have extensive experience in specialized areas such as sexual assault defence, criminal harassment, and drug offences. We tailor our litigation strategy to the specific nuances of your case and the presiding court, including specialized streams like Domestic Violence Court or Mental Health Court. We believe in a vigorous defence that challenges every piece of evidence. From theft under 5000 to serious violent crimes tried in the Ontario Superior Court, our firm leverages deep knowledge of the Canadian Charter to protect your future.
Criminal Lawyer Consultation — What Happens in the First Hour?
A criminal lawyer consultation is your opportunity to receive a preliminary case assessment and understand your legal jeopardy. During this initial meeting, we review available documents, such as the police synopsis or the information sworn, to provide an honest risk assessment. We operate under strict lawyer-client privilege, meaning you can discuss the facts freely. We will explain our fee structure, discussing options like a block fee versus an hourly rate, and outline the terms of the retainer agreement. Whether we meet in person or via video platforms like Zoom, our goal is to give you clear strategic advice on potential outcomes under the Criminal Code.
Criminal Defence Solicitors – Experts in Trial Preparation
Experienced criminal defence solicitors excel in both negotiation skills and courtroom combat. Our work begins long before the trial, conducting deep case law research and filing legal motions to exclude evidence obtained illegally, often utilizing Charter s. 24(2). We represent you at the judicial pre-trial, working to narrow the issues or resolve the matter without a trial. If a trial is necessary, our trial preparation is exhaustive. We conduct witness interviews, prepare cross-examination techniques, and draft compelling closing submissions. Whether facing the Public Prosecution Service of Canada or the provincial Crown, we provide elite advocacy.
Criminal Lawyers Near Me: Why Local Experience Matters
Searching for criminal lawyers near me connects you with counsel who understand the local ecosystem, including community resources and counselling services that can positively impact your sentencing. We know the specific prosecutors and judges in your jurisdiction, whether dealing with Peel Regional Police in Brampton or Durham Regional Police in Oshawa. This local insight is crucial for mitigating employment consequences and travel restrictions. We also advise on long-term impacts, such as immigration consequences involving the Immigration and Refugee Board and future border crossing issues with US Customs.
Criminal Appeal Lawyers Near Me – Challenging the Verdict
If you have been wrongly convicted or received a harsh sentence, finding criminal appeal lawyers near me is the first step toward justice. Appeals are highly technical; we argue that the trial judge made an error in law or that the jury reached an unreasonable verdict, resulting in a miscarriage of justice. We handle both conviction appeal and sentence appeal matters at the Ontario Court of Appeal. Our firm has the expertise to seek leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada for matters of national importance. In many cases, we can also apply for bail pending appeal, ensuring you remain free while we fight to overturn conviction.
Criminal Law Lawyers Near Me: 5 Things to Check First
When vetting criminal law lawyers near me, it is essential to look for a focused defence practice rather than a generalist. You need a team familiar with the daily criminal docket and the nuances of surety approval. We handle a wide array of charges, from breach of recognizance (bail violations) to complex offences like obstruction of justice or public mischief. Our firm is led by partners recognized for their leadership, including a Certified Specialist (where applicable) and the President of the Criminal Lawyers' Association. We regularly appear before the Case Management Judge to move your file forward efficiently.
Criminal Solicitors Near Me — Professional & Ethical Defence
Finding reputable criminal solicitors near me ensures that your defence is handled with the highest standards of professional responsibility. We owe our clients a strict fiduciary duty and client confidentiality, ensuring your secrets remain safe. We provide vigorous advocacy while maintaining transparency about legal fees, disbursements for things like a private investigator or expert report, and potential payment plan options. We scrutinize evidence such as surveillance evidence or reports from the Centre of Forensic Sciences. Our team ensures there is no conflict of interest and that you provide informed consent for every strategic move.
Criminal Defence Lawyers: Protecting Your Charter Rights
As criminal defence lawyers, our foundational duty is upholding the presumption of innocence. We hold the Crown to the strict burden of proof, ensuring guilt is established beyond a reasonable doubt. A significant part of our work involves launching a Charter challenge against unlawful search and seizure or arbitrary detention by police. We frequently file voir dire applications to exclude evidence obtained in violation of your right to counsel (Section 10(b)). Furthermore, we are vigilant about trial delay; if your case takes too long, we file a Jordan application under Section 11(b) of the Charter to have proceedings stayed.
Criminal Law Firms Near Me (Choosing the Best Location)
When searching for criminal law firms near me, consider accessibility and resource depth. Bytensky Shikhman Barristers is conveniently located to serve clients in Toronto, Brampton, and Newmarket. Our firm is supported by a dedicated team of associate attorneys, paralegals, and law clerks who ensure meticulous file management and legal research. We offer weekend availability and after-hours support for urgent matters because arrests don't stick to a 9-to-5 schedule. With options for virtual meetings via Zoom or in-person consults near the courts, we prioritize customer service and accessibility.
Criminal Law Solicitors: Understanding Complex Statutes
Criminal law solicitors are experts in statutory interpretation and common law precedents. To secure a conviction, the Crown must prove both the actus reus (guilty act) and mens rea (guilty mind). We dismantle their case by challenging proof of intent, recklessness, or wilful blindness. Our expertise extends to complex liability theories like being a party to an offence, aiding and abetting, or conspiracy. Whether you are charged under the Criminal Code, the Firearms Act, or the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, we analyze the specific legislative provisions applicable to your file.
Criminal Defence Lawyers Near Me – Immediate Response
If you are facing a police investigation or have just been arrested, searching for criminal defence lawyers near me is time-sensitive. We provide immediate response to police divisions like Toronto Police 51 Division or 52 Division to prevent self-incrimination. Our priority is avoiding detention at facilities like the Toronto South Detention Centre by securing a release order at your bail hearing. We also assist sureties who wish to withdraw, known as surety rendering, and defend against breach charge allegations or fail to attend court. If a bench warrant has been issued for your arrest, contact us immediately to arrange a safe surrender.
Criminal Lawyer: What Should You Look For?
A top-tier criminal lawyer acts as a litigator, negotiator, and strategist all in one. You need a legal professional with a commanding courtroom presence and the ability to be a ruthless cross-examiner of police witnesses. At Bytensky Shikhman, our partners are trusted media analysts for outlets like CTV and CP24 because of their ability to deconstruct complex legal issues. Your lawyer should be a skilled sentencing advocate, capable of humanizing you to the judge, and a shrewd plea negotiator who knows when to make a deal and when to fight.
Criminal Case Attorney Near Me: Navigating the System
While the term "attorney" is often used in the US, many clients search for a criminal case attorney near me when seeking a Canadian lawyer. As your defense attorney (or defence counsel), we guide the accused person through the Ontario court system. We ensure you understand the caution given by police (similar to "Miranda rights" in the US) and exercise your constitutional rights to silence and counsel. Whether facing a trial by judge and jury in the Superior Court of Justice or a judge-alone trial, we stand between the defendant and the prosecution.
Criminal Defence Attorney Near Me – Specialized Defence
When looking for a criminal defence attorney near me, you need someone versed in your specific charge. We handle serious indictable offences (similar to felonies) and summary convictions (similar to misdemeanors). Our practice areas include specialized DUI defense, domestic violence, and sexual offense litigation. We also have a strong track record in white collar crime, including fraud defense and identity theft. For younger clients, we navigate the Youth Criminal Justice Act for youth crime matters. Whether investigated by the Toronto Police, OPP, or RCMP, our team provides the strategic defence necessary.
Attorney for Criminal Cases (Expert Representation)
An attorney for criminal cases must be prepared for every contingency. We act as your trial lawyer, managing criminal litigation from the initial evidence review to the final verdict. Our team files critical pre-trial motions to suppress evidence and challenges witness testimony that is inconsistent or biased. We explore every avenue for sentence reduction, aiming to avoid jail time in favor of house arrest (conditional sentence) or probation. Whether negotiating plea deals or fighting charges at the Supreme Court of Canada, Boris Bytensky and Sonya Shikhman are the defense counsel you need.
Criminal Law Attorney Near Me – How to Choose the Best
Searching for a criminal law attorney near me can be overwhelming. Look for an experienced lawyer with a successful track record of winning cases in your specific area of law. At Bytensky Shikhman, we pride ourselves on high client satisfaction and professional recognition from peers in the Criminal Lawyers' Association. While terms like "best criminal lawyer" are subjective, our case results and media presence speak to our capability. We offer professional court representation and transparent legal fees. Check our law firm reviews and then schedule a legal consultation.
Criminal Attorney Near Me — 24/7 Legal Assistance
In a crisis, finding a criminal attorney near me is about accessibility. We function as an emergency lawyer service for those needing immediate bail lawyer assistance or legal assistance upon arrest. Whether you need a drug lawyer, assault lawyer, or DUI lawyer, our defense firm covers the full spectrum of the Criminal Code. We accept private counsel retainers and can discuss Legal Aid certificates for qualifying cases. Don't let a momentary lapse result in a failed criminal record check for years to come. Contact us for weekend lawyer support.