When an officer lays a charge, they often reach for the most serious offence that plausibly fits the situation, even where a less serious charge would describe it just as accurately. That gap is where a lot of negotiated outcomes happen.
What to Know
- Police frequently charge the broadest available offence at the roadside, rather than the narrowest one that fits.
- A more accurately-fitting, lesser charge can sometimes be negotiated with the Prosecutor as part of a plea discussion.
- A lesser charge typically means a smaller fine, fewer demerit points, and a lighter insurance impact than the original charge.
- This route does not require proving innocence — it is a practical negotiation grounded in what the evidence can actually support.
Bottom Line
Even where fighting a charge outright is not realistic, resolving it to a more proportionate offence is often still on the table — and worth exploring before accepting the original charge as final.
Talk It Over, Free of Charge
Every ticket is a little different. Describe yours and Mr. Walia will give you a clear, honest read on your options.
Send a Message (905) 454-2112Other Topics
- The Five-Step Defence Process
- What "Reasonable Doubt" Actually Means
- The Mounted-Device Exception
- How Demerit Points Actually Work
- Why Speeding Fines Aren't Negotiable
- Can a Minimum Fine Be Reduced?
- Does a Mistake on My Ticket Get It Thrown Out?
- The "General Penalty" — When the Act Doesn't Set a Fine
- How Insurers Actually Rate a Conviction
- Why You Can't Just Plead Guilty to Make It Go Away