About Mines & Company
We are Vancouver criminal lawyers that provide strong defence.
Mines & Company has a proven record of success defending criminal and driving offences since 1993. Michael Mines and his associates Ian Gauthier and Patrick Johnston are dedicated to helping our clients obtain the best possible outcomes in every case. Our lawyers are focused solely on criminal law and Motor Vehicle Act defence. We regularly appear in courts throughout Metro Vancouver and the rest of British Columbia. We’ve conducted cases in Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec, as well as the Yukon Territory.
We believe that great communication is the key to every successful case. From initial consultation to extensive trial preparation, we are committed to answering your questions, addressing your concerns and keeping you informed. We understand that to be successful, we must work hard to understand every detail of your case. We will listen to you. We will explore every possible defence. We will prepare sound legal arguments and advance them in court on your behalf. We still strive to communicate your circumstances and your story to police, Crown prosecutors and to the Court.
Over 35 Years of Courtroom Experience
Michael Mines, Ian Gauthier and Patrick Johnston have a combined total of over 35 years’ experience conducting criminal trials. Their trial strategies and courtroom skills are enhanced by Mr. Mines’ past experience doing Crown prosecution work. We take great pride in the professional relationships we have built over the years with Crown prosecutors, judges and other defence lawyers. The firm has earned a reputation as being highly professional, ethical and dedicated to our clients.
Mines & Company has conducted over 4,000 client matters over the years. This extensive criminal law experience has given us the depth of knowledge to assess our cases before they get to court. In essence, once we understand the issues of a particular case, we will be able to provide advice as to the probable outcome. Where appropriate, our lawyers will strongly advocate for a successful resolution of charges prior to your trial. Our firm grasp of the facts and the law, coupled with our excellent advocacy skills often allow us to negotiate a resolution that is favourable to our client. We will always strive to “control the outcome” of our case through a successful plea negotiation without the necessity of a trial. However, when we are called upon to argue a case in court – whether at trial or at a sentencing hearing, we find that our excellent preparation and courtroom advocacy pays off. The vast majority of our clients’ cases are resolved favourably.
Defending Your Rights & Freedoms
Our lawyers work tirelessly to defend your rights. We pride ourselves in fighting to uphold the Charter principles that guarantee Canadians freedom from unreasonable and unlawful police actions. We are dedicated to upholding the values enshrined in the Charter, including:
- The right to be treated in accordance with principles of fundamental justice;
- The right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure;
- The right to be free from arbitrary detention and arrest;
- The right upon detention or arrest to be informed of the reasons thereof and the right to contact counsel without delay;
- The right to be tried within a reasonable time; and
- The right to not be subjected to any cruel or unusual punishment.
Where appropriate, we will apply to the court to have any evidence obtained through a Charter breach excluded from the trial process.
Assault, Theft, Driving and Drug Charges
Mines & Company represents clients charged with assault (including domestic); theft; fraud; driving (including impaired); sexual assault; weapons and drug offences. Since 1993 we have achieved an impressive record of success in defending clients against these types of charges. We pride ourselves in helping our clients avoid jail sentences and convictions.
