James Gilbert, Alexandra Shackman and Gordon [ADD: surname] in a wood-panelled law office

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About the firm

Unwavering advocacy. Strategic defence.

Criminal defence across Ontario. A Toronto firm for Criminal Code cases, appearing in person or virtually where courts permit.

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Our lawyers

Meet the team

Lawyer

James D. Gilbert

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Lawyer

Alexandra R. Shackman

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Gordon [ADD: surname]

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info@criminallawgroup.ca

We represent clients charged anywhere in Ontario from our office at 49 Elm Street, Suite 203, Toronto. We can appear in person or, where the court permits, virtually. We do not operate branch offices.

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Our team

Criminal defence across Ontario, from our Toronto office

James Gilbert, Alexandra Shackman and Gordon [ADD: surname] outside Osgoode Hall — Outside Osgoode Hall

James Gilbert, Alexandra Shackman and Gordon [ADD: surname] in a courthouse atrium — Courthouse atrium

James Gilbert, Alexandra Shackman and Gordon [ADD: surname] in a boardroom with the Toronto skyline — Boardroom, Toronto skyline

James Gilbert, Alexandra Shackman and Gordon [ADD: surname] on a Toronto financial district street — Financial district, Toronto

James Gilbert, Alexandra Shackman and Gordon [ADD: surname] at Nathan Phillips Square in front of Toronto City Hall — Nathan Phillips Square

Mission statement

Justice is a fundamental right

My mission is to provide unwavering advocacy, strategic defence, and compassionate counsel to people facing criminal charges — safeguarding their rights and rigorously challenging the prosecution’s case.

With a profound respect for due process and the presumption of innocence, I develop evidence-based defences tailored to each case, and guide clients through every stage of the process.

Justice is not merely an aspiration — it is a fundamental right. My objective is to protect and uphold this right for every client, irrespective of the complexity or gravity of the charges they face.

— James D. Gilbert

How we work

What you can expect

Free, confidential review

A 30-minute consultation to review your charge and options.

An early-resolution approach

We work to resolve your matter quickly, without an unnecessary trial.

Focused on avoiding a record

Your record and professional future sit at the centre of our strategy.

A team behind your case

We work with private investigators, expert witnesses and former police staff.

Every level of court

Ontario Court of Justice, Superior Court of Justice and the Court of Appeal.

Flexible payment options

Payment plans, credit card, e-Transfer, block fees and matter caps.

Charged with an offence? Speak with a lawyer today.

Your first message is free and confidential. Call, text, or send a short form — no obligation.

Call Text Free case review

Google reviews

In our clients' words

4.9 out of 5 from 47 Google reviews

I had a great experience working with James and Alexandra. From the beginning, they treated my case with professionalism, honesty, and genuine care. They were always responsive, patient, and took the time to explain every step of the legal process, which gave me confidence during a very stressful time. James is an excellent lawyer who is knowledgeable…

Haermiton Ton · Google review

Mr. Gilbert and Ms. Shackman don’t just treat you like a number, they treat you as a person. They are nonjudgmental, take your concerns seriously, and genuinely put in the effort to protect your rights. In my experience, their communication and customer service are unmatched.…

swais waltin · Google review

Gordon provided top-tier legal representation. He was extremely proactive in dealing with the court and exceptionally fast with all follow-up paperwork and documentation. Communication was always prompt, clear, and efficient. If you need a reliable and dedicated criminal defense lawyer in Toronto, I strongly recommend Gordon!

Yu Chun Hsu · Google review

Their team was highly professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely committed to helping their clients achieve the best possible outcome. From the very first consultation, they treated me with respect, listened carefully to my concerns, and explained every step of the legal process clearly. What stood out the most was their dedication, honesty, and quick…

Richard John · Google review

I can highly recommend James and Alex. Our situation was far from straightforward but they accomplished something in hours that our previous lawyer had been unable to do in three weeks. They kept us continually updated, were extremely professional at all times, extremely knowledgeable about our options, but, most of all, they were compassionate and…

Su Williams · Google review

James Gilbert is one of Toronto’s top criminal lawyers. I was facing a major police brutality case where I had been wrongfully accused of assaulting an officer and slapped with a total of eight criminal charges. From day one, James was ready to take the case to trial and challenge every false allegation head-on.…

L D · Google review

I had the pleasure of working with both James Gilbert and Alexandra during a very challenging time, and I couldn't be more grateful for their assistance. They both played a crucial role in successfully withdrawing the criminal charges against me. Their professionalism, patience, and dedication were evident throughout the entire process.…

hargeet singh · Google review

Results depend on the facts of each case.

Charged with an offence? Speak with a lawyer today.

Your first message is free and confidential. Call, text, or send a short form — no obligation.

Call Text Free case review