2026 Defending a Handheld Charge

Defending Handheld Charges
November 18, 2026 | 3 Substantive CPD Hours | Law Society of Ontario

A handheld device charge may look straightforward on paper. Defending it requires a clear understanding of the legislation, the case law, and the evidence the prosecution brings to court.

Join Frank Alfano and Jana Smith for a practical program that takes you from the governing law to the conduct of a trial. We’ll examine the legislative framework, explore relevant court decisions, and break down what the prosecution must prove. We’ll also work through the evidence you can expect to encounter, how to assess it critically, and how to identify issues that may shape your defence.

The program concludes with a mock trial, bringing the law and evidence together in a courtroom setting. See how the issues develop through testimony, cross-examination, and submissions—and how preparation translates into advocacy.

This program will cover:

The legislation governing handheld device charges in Ontario.
Relevant case law and its practical application.
The essential elements of the offence and the prosecution’s burden of proof.
Assessing disclosure, officer observations, and other anticipated evidence.
Preparing cross-examination and developing a defence theory.
A mock trial demonstrating how to put the principles into practice.

Designed for lawyers and paralegals who handle provincial offences matters, this program offers practical preparation for your next handheld device case.

Eligible for 3 hours of Substantive CPD toward the Law Society of Ontario’s annual CPD requirement.
Professional Hours pending

2026 Defending a Handheld Charge

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