Regulatory Offence

Toronto Criminal Defence Lawyers Representing Clients Involved in Regulatory Offences

What are Regulatory Offences?

Regulatory offences typically refer to non-Criminal Code offences, that involve breaches of other statutes, regulations, or bylaws. In Ontario, regulatory offences can encompass a wide range of charges and issues.  These include breaches of highway traffic laws, environmental laws, workplace safety laws as well as licensing requirements and permit approvals. Individuals, corporations and companies are subject to these regulations and face legal consequences and charges if they breach a regulation or otherwise fail to comply.

Understanding Provincial Offences

In Ontario, many regulatory charges are dealt with in the Ontario Court of Justice under the Provincial Offences Act of Ontario.  Depending on the type of charge, the charges are often brought forth by a Municipality or the involved government agency. In Ontario, these can include such agencies as the Ministry of Transportation,  Ministry of Labour and Ministry of the Environment.

Common Regulatory Offences for Corporations and Companies

1. Environmental Violations: Companies must adhere to strict environmental regulations to ensure the protection of natural resources and public health.
2. Workplace Safety: Ensuring a safe working environment is crucial and violations of workplace safety legislation as well as occupational health and safety regulations can lead to serious legal consequences.
3. Consumer Protection: Corporations must operate transparently and ethically to protect consumers. Breaches of consumer protection laws can result in regulatory action.
4. Licensing and Permitting: Failure to obtain or renew necessary licenses and permits can result in regulatory offences, affecting the operations of a business. 

Potential Consequences

1. Fines: Courts and regulatory bodies in Ontario have the authority to impose fines on individuals and corporations found guilty of violating regulatory statutes and their regulations, with penalties varying based on the nature and severity of the breach.
2. Compliance Orders: Authorities may issue compliance orders requiring individuals or corporations to rectify non-compliance issues within a specified timeframe.
3. License Revocation: Certain industries and commercial enterprises in Ontario require licenses, and regulatory breaches may lead to the suspension or revocation of these licenses.
4. Public Notification: Regulatory actions can become public knowledge, exposing corporations to reputational risks and potential damage to relationships with clients, stakeholders, and the public.
5. Imprisonment:  Under certain laws and regulations Provincial Offences Courts have the authority to impose jail sentences on individuals or corporate directors and officers. However, these sentences are rare and reserved for the most serious of offences.

The Importance of Seeking Legal Counsel

If you or your company are facing regulatory charges in Ontario, it is essential to seek legal counsel promptly. Our experienced team of criminal defence and regulatory lawyers are ready to provide advice and representation on your behalf.

We offer multiple convenient locations in Toronto, Whitby, Barrie and more to serve our clients better. To begin your initial consultation and find the right regulatory lawyer, please contact us at 416-449-1400.