We will provide you with sound legal advice at this very challenging time in your life.

Criminal Defence

Tamika Harris is the lead defence attorney in the firm. Her competence and dedication makes the difference between a guilty and a not guilty verdict, between prison and non-custodial sentence and reduced or dismissed charges. She ensures that the rights of the accused persons are protected throughout the entire legal process.

Interview with Tamika Harris:

Why waste money hiring a lawyer – can’t I just represent myself?

“The man who represents himself in court has a fool for a client”.

You wouldn’t consider saving money by performing your own heart surgery, so don’t risk your job, reputation, and liberty, by trying to defend your own case.

When should I call a criminal lawyer?

If you have been arrested by the police, if the police invite you to a Police Station for “questioning” or if you suddenly realize you are a “person of interest”, don’t delay, contact us immediately.

I’ve heard that you should remain silent – but if I am innocent and haven’t done anything wrong, I’m sure I should answer the questions asked by the Police and even give a statement.

I’ve heard that you should remain silent – but if I am innocent and haven’t done anything wrong, I’m sure I should answer the questions asked by the Police and even give a statement.

I wish this was true. But you must remain silent. Don’t speak to the Police without your lawyer being present. Be respectful and indicate that you will like the opportunity to contact Tamika Harris and Associates, Attorneys-at-Law.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is the use of a trained and unbiased person to help parties with conflict to talk and listen to each other with a view to resolving the matter peacefully.

Why did the Judge refer us to Mediation?

Depending on the seriousness of the matter, the judge may refer the matter to mediation if the judge believes that the matter can be resolved outside of the formal court system.

What are the benefits of mediation?

  1. It reduces delays;
  2. It is cost-effective and circumvents red tape and formality; and
  3. It allows for continued relationships.

What if we can’t arrive at an Agreement?

The matter is sent back to the formal court system so that each person gets his/her day in court.

What is bail?

Bail is the security provided to the court to obtain a defendant’s release from jail or remand center and ensure his or her appearances in court. The defendant must attend all required court dates

If I bail someone, will I get back the asset I used as security?

If the defendant keeps all scheduled court dates, the court will return the security provided to bail the defendant, and to the person who posted bail. This will be returned at the conclusion of the case.

What does the Judge take into consideration before deciding whether to grant bail, the amount of bail, and the bail conditions?

What does the Judge take into consideration before deciding whether to grant bail, the amount of bail, and the bail conditions?

  1. The nature and seriousness of the charge;
  2. The likelihood of conviction;
  3. The likely sentence if convicted;
  4. Defendant’s criminal record;
  5. Ties to the community;
  6. Prior history of missing court dates and
  7. Whether the defendant was on bail when arrested on the present charge.

What are the responsibilities of someone who posts bail?

The person who posts bail is responsible for making sure that the defendant attends all required court appearances. The person agrees that if the defendant does not appear in court as required, the bail posted will be FORFEITED.

What happens to the Defendant if he is out on bail and does not appear in Court as required?

When a defendant does not attend court for a required appearance, the court will issue a warrant for the Defendant’s arrest; revoke the defendant’s bail, and order that the bail posted be forfeited.

What are some of the documents required to post bail for a defendant?

  1. Passport size photograph of the person(s) posting bail. The photograph must be certified by a Justice of the Peace.
  2. Recommendation for the person(s) posting bail from the same Justice of the Peace who certified the photograph.
  3. Valid identification of the person(s) posting bail.
  4. Proof of address (utility bills or any other recent documents that contain the address and name of the person(s) posting bail).
  5. Bank Statement for the person(s) posting bail or Registered Certificate of Title of property owned by the person(s) posting bail.
Our lawyers practicing in this area include: