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Gilbert Barristers & Solicitors
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James Gilbert, Alexandra Shackman and Gordon [ADD: surname] in a courthouse atrium
Home / Locations / Ottawa
City of Ottawa

Criminal Defence Lawyer in Ottawa

Criminal defence across Ontario for this community, appearing at the local courthouse from our Toronto office.

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The courthouse

Ottawa Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)

161 Elgin Street, 2nd Floor, Ottawa, ON K2P 2K1

Source: Ontario court locations

Always follow the address on your release order or appearance notice.

Being charged with a criminal offence in Ottawa is stressful. The address on your appearance notice — not the city where you live — is the court that will hear the case.

Call us at 1-866-720-2245 for a free, confidential 30-minute case review. Gilbert Barristers & Solicitors is a Toronto criminal defence firm. We appear in courthouses across Ontario, including Ottawa.

The courthouse

Most Ottawa criminal cases are heard at the Ottawa Courthouse, 161 Elgin Street (2nd floor). The Ontario Court of Justice sits in this building for first appearances, bail, pleas, many trials and youth matters. Some more serious cases proceed in the Superior Court of Justice in the same complex. Allow time for security screening in a busy downtown courthouse.

Always follow the address on your release order or appearance notice. If it conflicts with the listing above, call us before the date.

Nearby communities

We act for people charged in Ottawa, Kanata, Nepean, Orléans, Vanier and Barrhaven. We do not have a branch office in Ottawa. The firm’s office is at 49 Elm Street, Suite 203, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1H1. We can appear in person or, where the court permits, virtually.

Charges we defend

We defend Ottawa-area clients on assault and domestic assault, impaired driving and over 80, drug and weapons charges, theft, fraud and mischief, sexual offences, bail and breach charges, and youth matters.

First appearance

In many cases a lawyer can appear on your behalf at the first court date, depending on your release conditions. Speak with a lawyer first. You have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel — get advice before making a statement to police.

The review is free and does not create a lawyer-client relationship. We act on matters in Ontario only. Call 1-866-720-2245 or use the contact page.

*General information, not legal advice. Courthouse addresses are from official Ontario listings and should be checked against your court documents.*

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

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 TextFree 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.

Request your free case review

A free, confidential 30-minute review. Call or text 1-866-720-2245 anytime.

Preferred contact

Please don’t include confidential details. We act on matters in Ontario only. You can also call or text 1-866-720-2245.

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

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 TextFree case review