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Bill C-16 and Parliament’s Proposed Changes to the Records Regime A Change That Raises More Questions Than Answers
When the federal government introduced Bill C-16 in December 2025, Justice Minister Sean Fraser called it “one of the most consequential reforms of the Criminal Code in a generation.”¹ Buried within its 200-plus pages is a provision that could fundamentally reshape how sexual assault trials are conducted in Canada; and ...
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Boris Bytensky on Ford’s Bail Livestream Proposal: “Not a Realistic Proposal”
concerns
Boris Bytensky, a Toronto defence lawyer and the past president of the Criminal Lawyers’ Association, said Mr. Ford’s idea to livestream bail hearings was simply not feasible, and would be illegal under the federal Criminal Code.
“I am sure Premier Ford knows that the current state of our law would not ...
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When Young Engineers Build Weapons: Innovation, Regulation, and the Risk of Criminal Charges in Canada
Earlier this year, four twenty-something students and former students from Western University were arrested and charged with unlawful possession of explosives (among other charges). A YouTube video then surfaced from before the arrests, which appears to show some of these folks openly “pitching” their military technology startup. They told the ...
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The unthinkable has come to pass: How egregious use of force led to a stay of proceedings for three individuals charged with first-degree murder
Introduction “The unthinkable has come to pass.”[1] Those were the concluding remarks of Ontario Superior Court Justice Conlan J., in his reasons granting a stay of proceedings for three individuals charged with first-degree murder. Arising from events at Maplehurst Correctional Complex (“MCC”) in December of 2023, R. v Whitlock is ...
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Bail Hearing Show Cause Explained: How It Works in Ontario
When facing criminal charges in Ontario, understanding the bail process can mean the difference between awaiting trial at home or spending months in custody. Among the most critical aspects is the bail hearing, which involves a show cause proceeding, where the burden of proof determines whether an accused person remains ...
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Can You Travel with a DUI from Canada? What You Need to Know
If you have a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction in Canada, you might be wondering how it affects your ability to travel internationally. Whether you’re planning a vacation, a business trip, or a family visit, understanding how a DUI conviction can impact travel is crucial. In this article, we’ll ...
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How Long Does a Bail Hearing Take? The Legal Process in Toronto
If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges, one of the most important events in the early stages of the case is the bail hearing. Understanding how long a bail hearing takes, the process involved, and how to navigate the complexities of this crucial legal procedure is essential. ...
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Can You Get a DUI on a Bicycle? Bytensky Shikhman Barristers Explain
Most people know that driving while impaired can get you into a lot of trouble with the law. Well-known penalties include fines, licence suspensions, criminal records, and jail time. But what happens if you swap your four wheels to two? Can you get a DUI on a bicycle in Ontario? ...
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Is Domestic Violence a Felony? What the Law Says in Ontario
Defendants must understand Ontario domestic abuse legislation. Many people ask, “Is domestic violence a felony?” In Ontario, while domestic violence is not a standalone offence, it can lead to serious criminal charges that may be prosecuted as either summary or indictable offences, depending on the severity. The laws about domestic ...
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Navigating the Process: How to Drop Domestic Violence Charges in Ontario
If you are charged with domestic abuse, the legal implications can be very significant and influence every part of your life. If you or someone you know is facing these charges, knowing how to drop domestic violence charges in Ontario is essential for making informed decisions about your future. Understanding ...
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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.
Kathryn Doyle J.D.
Partner at Bytensky Shikhman Criminal Law Firm
Kathryn graduated from the University of Ottawa in 2016 with an Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences and returned in 2017 to obtain her Juris Doctor.
Dylan Gold
Articling student at Bytensky Shikhman Criminal Law Firm
A recent graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School, Dylan is currently completing his articles at Bytensky Shikhman. He plans to join the firm as an associate following his call to the bar.