Protecting your rights. Defending your future
Your defence starts here
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right legal support, you'll have a lawyer who listens, explains your options, and works to protect your rights. Let a dedicated criminal defense lawyer guide you through the process and fight for the best outcome.
About Jessie
Jessie S. Brar is a Partner at Steigerwald Hodge Pinx & Brar LLP, specializing in criminal defence.
Known for his strategic approach, commitment to client’s rights and strong courtroom advocacy, Jessie has defended clients facing a broad range of charges, including Impaired Driving, Property Offences, Violent and Sexual Offences, Weapons and Drug Offences, and Homicide.
He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of North Dakota School of Law and began his career at Gindin Wolson Simmonds Roitenberg, later joining Simmonds and Associates in 2021. There, he worked closely with Saul B. Simmonds, K.C., honing his skills in complex criminal litigation.
Jessie has particular expertise in Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms issues, evidentiary challenges (KGB/Hearsay), pre-trial applications in sexual assault cases (sections 276 and 278 of the Criminal Code), and search warrants and wiretaps.
He also maintains a robust appellate practice, with successful outcomes before the Manitoba Court of Appeal in cases such as R v. Haroon, 2023 MBCA 60, R v. Silaphet, 2024 MBCA 58 and R v. Swanson, 2025 MBCA 29. His work extends to the Supreme Court of Canada, where he has advanced numerous Applications for Leave to Appeal and an Application for Intervention. Notably, he appeared as co-counsel on behalf of the Criminal Defence Lawyers Association of Manitoba (CDLAM) in the landmark Supreme Court of Canada case of R v. JJ, 2022 SCC 28.
Fluent in Punjabi and English, and conversational in Hindi, Jessie proudly serves a diverse clientele. He accepts both private retainers and Legal Aid certificates on a case-by-case basis.
Legal Services
Criminal charges come in many forms, each with its own challenges and consequences. Legal services are tailored to address a wide range of offenses, from impaired driving and assault to drug-related charges and serious criminal allegations. The following sections provide an overview of key practice areas and how legal support is offered in each.
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This area deals with disputes over decisions made by government entities and tribunals, often through appeals or judicial reviews involving licensing, benefits, or enforcement actions.
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Appeals involve asking a higher court to review a conviction or sentence for legal errors that may have affected the outcome. While not all cases are eligible and successful appeals are uncommon, they are a vital safeguard in the justice system. Strict deadlines apply, so timely action is essential.
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Effective representation during bail hearings focuses on obtaining release from custody and negotiating fair conditions while the accused awaits trial.
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These applications challenge violations of constitutional rights such as illegal searches, arbitrary arrest, and denial of legal counsel, forming a critical part of criminal defence strategy.
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Charges related to drugs include offences like possession, trafficking, manufacturing, and cross-border importation of controlled substances under federal law.
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Violations under this act include offences like speeding and careless driving, which can lead to monetary penalties, license demerits, insurance rate increases, or even suspension.
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Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in criminal prosecution, driving prohibitions, vehicle seizure, and mandatory rehabilitation programs.
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Cybercrimes encompass a range of offences including online fraud, identity theft, illicit content distribution, and unauthorized access to data or systems.
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Allegations of intimate partner violence/domestic assault involve claims of physical harm or threats in close relationships and may escalate to more serious charges like aggravated assault or assault with a weapon. These charges may trigger no contact orders and other strict legal prohibitions.
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Homicide cases—ranging from manslaughter to first-degree murder—are complex and carry severe penalties, often necessitating a strategic, high-stakes legal defence.
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Criminal acts like theft, break-ins, vandalism, arson, and motor vehicle theft involve harm or unlawful interference with property and can lead to significant consequences.
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These offences, while not classified as criminal under the Criminal Code, stem from provincial or regulatory laws and may still result in penalties such as fines or probation.
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Regulatory matters involve proceedings before professional bodies or agencies where individuals face allegations of non-compliance, misconduct, or ethical violations.
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Robbery, defined by theft involving threats or violence, is a serious offence , particularly when weapons are used, often subject to mandatory sentencing guidelines.
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Sex-related criminal charges—ranging from assault and exploitation to online luring—require careful legal navigation due to their sensitive and high-impact nature.
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Tax-related offences involve accusations of evasion, fraud, or non-payment of government taxes and can result in significant legal and financial repercussions.
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These charges include unlawful weapon possession, improper storage and importation/trafficking with specific provisions for restricted or prohibited firearms.
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Financial crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, or corporate misconduct involve deceit for economic gain and carry serious legal and reputational consequences.
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This legislation applies to youth aged 12 to 17, promoting rehabilitative measures and diversion programs while safeguarding their legal rights and future opportunities.
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