Handcuffed arrested man behind prison bars.

Answering Legal Questions

Read the frequently asked questions compiled by A. W. McGarvey Law Offices to learn about the legal services we provide to help our clients from Victoria to Port Hardy, and all cities on Vancouver Island.

1) I’ve just been charged with a criminal offence. What will a lawyer be able to do for me?

We advise you to hire the best lawyer you can afford to represent you before the court. Once you’ve retained a lawyer, that lawyer will be able to appear in court on your behalf (we would be pleased and honoured to do so).
Then the lawyer will begin to assemble all evidence in your favour to use at your trial or, if appropriate, negotiate with Crown Counsel on a plea bargain and a reduced sentence.
We will help you prepare for court appearances (including trial) and represent you effectively throughout the appropriate process you select (Trial or Sentencing).
We will put together a team of experts and investigators to prepare the best defence possible.
Much of the nature of your case will depend on what you have been charged with, and what evidence is gathered and presented by the Crown Counsel.

Contact a lawyer to arrange an initial consultation.

2) How much is this going to cost me?

That depends on the nature of your legal matter and what you instruct the lawyer to do on your behalf. In most criminal cases, you will be required to provide a significant initial deposit (a lump sum amount) at the time you first hire the lawyer.

For work we complete, as we complete it, you will be billed on an hourly basis for that work and you will be required to maintain your deposit amount.

For most injury matters (including ICBC and assault lawsuits), we will work on a contingency fee basis, in which case we are paid a percentage of your final settlement at the end of the case.

For more information, see our Legal Fees.

3) What will happen in my criminal proceedings?

At A. W. McGarvey Law Offices, we protect your legal interests in every legal procedure from start to finish.

We will advise you prior to any police questioning and assist you in gathering evidence, coordinating with private investigators and experts, attending to court appearances, and, most importantly, defend you to our best ability at trial or at a sentencing, as you elect.

Click here for a brief description of a typical criminal matter.

4) What will happen in my personal injury claim?

We guide you through the step-by-step process of the lawsuit, determining the whom, where and when to sue, ensuring you get the most out of the claims you seek.

Our aim is to ensure that you do not miss any deadlines and ensure you are 100% prepared for the discovery or trial process.

Click here for a brief description of a typical personal injury claim.