Matt Gould Blog

As an experienced criminal defense lawyer, I understand the stress and impact that criminal charges can have on a person’s life. That’s why I provide effective legal representation to help my clients navigate the criminal justice system and protect their interests. Whether you’re facing a minor offense or more serious charges, it’s important to get informed and be proactive in your defense.

Civil Law vs. Common Law

Quebec is seen as a land apart; it has been called a “nation within Canada” due to the predominance of the French language, it’s different culture and customs, and it’s tumultuous history with the rest of Canada. Another important distinction between Quebec

The Consequences of a DUI

Driving under the influence is a terrible idea; you’re putting your own life, and the lives of others, at risk. Every day, an average of 3.5 Canadians are killed by impaired driving.  That’s why Manitoba has steep penalties for drivers with who

Differences Between Canadian and US Legal Systems

Have you been listening to Season 3 of Serial? It’s a remarkable season with an exciting premise; journalists hang out in a courtroom in Cleveland and report on the cases that transpire there, in an effort to get the public to better

The Difference Between Civil and Criminal Law

The law is a complex beast; there’s a wide variety of different codes, procedures, and practices, as well as differences between provincial and federal laws. Each court will operate according to its own standards, each judge has their own way of ruling;

The Legalization of Cannabis: What You Need To Know

Cannabis will become legal to purchase and consume in Manitoba as of October 17, 2018. The framework for the legalization of cannabis is complex, and there are many things Manitobans should know to avoid getting in trouble with the law. Cannabis can

Always Hire A Lawyer

You’ve been arrested. Why you were doesn’t matter, nor does it matter whether or not you are actually guilty of the crimes for which you’ve been accused. What matters is that you need a lawyer. When arrested, every Canadian has the right

Do I Need an Attorney at a DUI Hearing?

Going to court to defend yourself against a criminal charge is a daunting, intimidating prospect. Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious, criminal charge, and Manitoba has some of the strictest impaired driving laws in the country. The mandatory minimum sentence

Can I Be Taken Into Custody After a Hearing?

You’ve been arrested, and charged with impaired driving. You are brought into jail and processed; most of the time, you’ll be released if the justice system does not believe you pose a flight risk; that is to say, they believe you will

Should I Get an Attorney if I have a Domestic Violence Charge?

One of the most intense, troubling and severe charges that can be levied against an individual is a domestic violence charge. These charges are taken extremely seriously in Manitoba; if a police officer suspects domestic violence, they are legally required to arrest

The Difference Between Criminal and Civil Cases

There are many different reasons you might be brought before a court; you may be in front of a judge as a defendant, or you may be a plaintiff pursuing property damages because your neighbor’s dog dug up your favorite plants. The

4 Myths About Marijuana And DUI

Below we list 4 myths about marijuana and DUI: Myth Number One: Legalizing Marijuana Encourages Teenager Use The most typical concern that surrounds marijuana legalization is its possible impact on teenagers. Many opponents claim that ending prohibition will serve as an endorsement

What Are the Different Types of Criminal Offences?

Even though there are several different types of crimes, criminal acts generally can be divided into these categories: financial crimes, statutory crimes, inchoate crimes, property crimes, and personal crimes. Personal Crimes These are those crimes which result in mental or physical harm

What is it Called When You Damage Someone’s Property?

Damaging someone else’s property is a serious offense that carries legal consequences. Many people want to know the potential penalty for their crime, but they aren’t sure where to turn. After all, what is it actually called when you damage someone’s property?

Does a DUI Conviction Count as A Criminal Offence?

There are two kinds of punishment that results from being convicted of a DUI (Driving under the Influence) charge. The first kind of punishment includes administrative and will result in license suspension. The second kind of punishment is under criminal law, as

Do I Need an Attorney at a DUI Hearing?

Charges related to driving under the influence always involve a hearing in criminal court. You may be wondering whether it is truly necessary for you to hire an attorney to assist with your upcoming court case. After all, the expense of hiring

Are DUI Checkpoints Illegal?

  Oftentimes, local law enforcement agencies will set up checkpoints alongside roads to detect drivers who are travelling under the influence of alcohol or drugs or who are travelling with alcohol in their system that is above the legal limit. It’s most

The Duty of Confidentiality

Trusting your attorney can be a difficult thing, particularly if they are someone that you have never met before. Most people are aware that their lawyer has some obligation to protect the information that they disclose through the attorney-client privilege, but is

Testing for Marijuana Impairment

When a police officer pulls someone over for suspected drunk driving, they can use a breathalyzer to determine someone’s level of impairment. This estimates a driver’s blood alcohol content based on the amount still on their breath. Many people mistakenly believe that

Controversial Stuff About Bill C-75

A lot of media coverage has been given to the newly released Bill C-75 that was written to help reduce the wait time in Canadian courts. At face value, this new bill promises to deliver a speedier trial that many people could

Impact of a Criminal Record

You thought that you already served the time for your latest crime, but you might not be done just yet. Having a criminal record will impact you for the rest of your life, no matter how you attempt to live your life