Express Entry Draws Resume
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced last week that Express Entry draws will resume. IRCC is opening express entry draws…
Legal Wire Blog
Legal Wire Blog
The Top 5 Ways to Immigrate to Canada
Canada, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and high quality of life, is a dream destination for many aspiring…
Family Sponsorship for Immigration to Canada
Family sponsorship is a Canadian immigration program that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor certain family members to…
Business Visas – What to Know and How They Work
Business visas, also known as business immigration programs, are designed to allow individuals to establish, invest in, or manage businesses…
Can My Husband Take Everything in a Divorce?
In Canada, divorce and the division of assets are governed by provincial and territorial family laws, not federal law. These…
What is Cybercrime?
In Canada, cybercrime is a broad term that encompasses a range of criminal activities conducted using computers, computer networks, or…
Immigrate to the United States from Canada
If you’re looking to immigrate to the United States from Canada, we’re sad to see you go! But the team…
Immigrate from the US to Canada
Immigrating from the United States to Canada is possible through various immigration pathways, each with its own eligibility criteria and…
How to Get Refugee Status in Canada
Obtaining refugee status in Canada is a complex process, and it’s essential to follow the correct legal procedures. Here are…
What Happens at a Bail Hearing?
In British Columbia, as in other parts of Canada, a bail hearing is a legal proceeding where a person who…
Fraud Charges
Fraud is a serious criminal offense that can have severe consequences, both personally and professionally. If you were accused of…
Entrapment in Criminal Cases: Your Defence Against Unfair Tactics
What is Entrapment? Entrapment is a legal defence strategy that arises when law enforcement uses deceit, persuasion, or coercion to…
The Right to Refuse Searches: A Guide to Police Interactions in Criminal Cases
As we continue our series on police interactions and your rights, we delve into a critical aspect of preserving your…
The Right to Remain Silent: A Guide to Police Interactions in Criminal Cases
In the Canadian legal system, the right to remain silent is a fundamental principle that protects individuals from self-incrimination during…
Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program: Your Path to Entrepreneurial Success
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur seeking opportunities to build your dream business on Canadian soil? Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program might…
A Guide to Police Interactions in Criminal Cases
In our modern society, the safeguarding of individual rights and liberties is paramount to upholding justice and ensuring a fair…
Work Visa Requirements in Canada
Canada, renowned for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and thriving job market, has emerged as a top destination for international…
Mediation vs Litigation: Choosing the Right Path for Your Divorce
Divorce can be a challenging and emotional experience, and deciding on the best approach to resolve the issues can significantly…
Express Entry to Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide to Permanent Residency
If you’ve ever dreamed of living and working in Canada permanently, the Express Entry system could be the pathway to…
Abduction Charges in BC
Abduction charges are among the most serious offences one can face, carrying severe consequences that can impact an individual’s life…
Understanding Indecent or Harassing Communications Offences in BC
In today’s interconnected world, communication has never been easier. However, with this convenience comes the risk of misuse and abuse.…
Trafficking in Stolen Property
In a society where property rights are fundamental, cases of trafficking in stolen property strike at the very core of…
Theft of Motor Vehicle Charges
The theft of a motor vehicle is a serious criminal offence that can come with severe penalties if you are…
Criminal Harassment Charges
In Canada, criminal harassment is defined under Section 264 of the Criminal Code. It is also commonly referred to as…
Extortion Charges in BC
Extortion is a criminal offence involving the act of obtaining something, such as money, property, or services, from another person…
Dividing Shared Property in a Divorce: A Guide for B.C. Couples
When a marriage or common-law relationship comes to an end, one of the most significant aspects to address is the…
7 Benefits of Family Mediation
When facing family disputes such as divorce, child custody, or property division, litigation can often intensify conflicts and strain relationships…
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Divorce
Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged process that requires careful consideration and strategic decision-making. In British Columbia, understanding the…
What to Expect from Immigration Consultation
Immigration can be a nerve-wracking and tedious experience, but an immigration consultation session should be the exact opposite! If you’re…
Driving While Prohibited Charges
Driving is a privilege that comes with certain responsibilities, and when those responsibilities are disregarded, it can result in serious…
Types of Property Offences
Property offences, also known as property crimes, refer to a category of criminal offences that involve the unlawful interference with…
How Visitation Works in BC
Especially as your kids get older, visitation is never as simple as sticking to a schedule. It’s totally normal for…
What is a Post-Judgment Modification?
If you’re looking to make some sort of change to your divorce agreement, you’ll likely need what is known as…
How to Navigate LGBT Divorce
A lot of discussion about divorce tends to be hetero-normative, despite the fact that same-sex and other “non-traditional” marriages have…
What is a Contested Divorce?
When couples decide to end their marriage, they may encounter disputes regarding matters such as child custody, spousal support, division…
What is a Prenuptial Agreement? (Prenup)
You’ve probably heard of a “prenup” before, more formally known as a prenuptial agreement. It’s okay if you haven’t, though.…
How to Obtain an Emergency Custody Order
When a child’s safety and well-being are at risk, immediate action is necessary to ensure their protection. In situations where…
How to Remove a DUI from Your Criminal Record
In Canada, the process of removing a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction or any other criminal offense from your…
Verbal Assault Laws in BC
In Canada, the term “verbal assault” is not specifically used in criminal law. However, certain forms of verbal aggression can…
Can You Get a DUI for Sleeping in Your Car in BC?
In British Columbia, you can be charged with a DUI for sleeping in your car. DUI charges are not as…
Domestic Assault Charges in BC
In British Columbia, domestic assault refers to any form of physical or sexual violence, threats, or abusive behavior that occurs…
A Guide to Breaking and Entering Charges
In British Columbia, the offense of breaking and entering is covered under the Criminal Code of Canada. Breaking and entering…
What is a Separation Agreement?
In British Columbia, a separation agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines the terms and conditions agreed upon by…
What Happens After Divorce Mediation?
Divorce mediation is often seen as a better alternative to a divorce hearing for splitting couples who can remain civil…
How to Obtain a Canadian Study Permit
Studying in Canada is an exciting opportunity that offers excellent academic institutions, diverse cultural experiences, and the potential for future…
What is a Temporary Resident Permit?
In Canada, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a document that allows an individual who is otherwise inadmissible to enter…
The Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Canadian Citizenship
Becoming a Canadian citizen is a significant milestone in one’s life, and it’s natural to feel overwhelmed with the process.…
The Difference between Separation and Divorce
Separation and divorce are two significant concepts in family law, but they are often misunderstood to mean the same thing.…
Pet Custody in B.C.
The way family pets are treated during divorce or separation in British Columbia is undergoing significant changes, leading to the…
Exclusion of Evidence Leads to Acquittal in Drug Trafficking Case
Criminal Defence Lawyer Rob Dhanu recently represented Mr. Zacharias who was facing charges of drug trafficking after being caught with…
Analysis of Factors in the Sentencing of Shane Travis Hughes for the Manslaughter of Christine May Denham
The case of Shane Travis Hughes, who committed manslaughter with a firearm resulting in the death of his partner, Christine…
Are Magic Mushrooms Legal in BC?
Well before BC passed massive drug decriminalization legislation earlier this year, magic mushrooms were relatively easy to find in our…
Everything You Need to Know about Drug Decriminalization in BC
The Canadian province of British Columbia has announced that it will decriminalize the possession of certain illegal drugs for personal…
Can the Police Unlock Your Phone?
In British Columbia, Canada, the police may be able to unlock your phone if they have a warrant or if…
Changes to Cocaine Charges in BC – 2023
Cocaine charges in British Columbia can be serious offences, depending on the amount of cocaine in your possession and the…
How Serious are Weapons Offences in BC?
Weapons offences are taken very seriously in British Columbia (BC), as they are in most jurisdictions. The possession, use, or…
Common Misconceptions About Family Law in British Columbia
Family law in British Columbia is a complex area of law that deals with family-related issues such as marriage, divorce,…
The Importance of Having a Punjabi Lawyer: A Look into the Dhanu Dhaliwal Law Group
The Dhanu Dhaliwal Law Group (DDLaw) is a reputable law firm that has been providing excellent legal services to the…
The Ins & Outs of Property Division in British Columbia Divorces
Divorce can be a complicated and emotionally-charged process, especially when it comes to property division. After years of living together…
Can You Be Charged with Assault without Touching Someone?
Most people think they would be able to identify assault if they saw it, and sure, many instances of assault…
Do Mothers Have More Rights Than Fathers in Canada?
In Canada, both mothers and fathers have the same legal rights and responsibilities with respect to their children. Under Canadian…
The “Carter” DUI Defence Strategy
The Carter Defence is a strategy for fighting drunk driving or DUI charges in Canada. Named after the case of…
Should Divorced Parents Do Christmas Together?
Ahhh…it’s the holiday season; Christmas is here and it’s the time for family cheer! However, if you’re divorced and sharing…
What is a Cohabitation Agreement?
We’ve discussed marriage agreements here on the Legal Wire Blog before, but you may not know that similar legal documents…
5 Solid Ways You Can Beat A DUI Charge In British Columbia
Are you searching for how to beat a DUI charge (also known as “Over 80mg charge” or “Over 80 charge”)…
How to Change Your Bail Conditions
Bail is a court order allowing you to remain in the community until your criminal case is finished. You must…
How School Decisions Work with Joint Custody
Joint custody school decisions are often the most polarizing decisions divorced or separated couples have to make. If you have…
How to Beat a First Time Assault Charge
Assault charges in Canada are very serious, but you probably already know that. That’s why you’re wondering how to beat…
News Release: Michelle O’Bonsawin becomes First Indigenous Judge Appointed to Supreme Court
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has appointed Ontario judge Michelle O’Bonsawin to the Supreme Court of Canada, making her the first…
News Release: B.C. ending immigration detention arrangement with CBSA, citing human rights
British Columbia is ending an arrangement with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to hold immigration detainees in provincial correctional centres,…
News release: Supreme Court decides that “Stealthing” constitutes sexual assault
CBC News covered a recent decision by the Supreme Court of Canada in regards to “stealthing.” “Stealthing” refers to the…
How to Beat Burglary Charges – Breaking and Entering Criminal Defence
Here on our Legal Wire Blog, we’ve previously covered theft charges, as well as shoplifting charges – one of the…
What to Expect from an Adoption Hearing
You’ve wept tears of joy and of frustration. You’ve put in the time – probably years – and effort, and…
Restraining Order vs. Protection Order – What’s the Difference?
You’ve probably heard of a restraining order before. They’re commonly understood to be a way to legally stop someone from…
International Adoption in BC
International adoption is a bit more complicated than adoption from within Canada, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Quite the…
Testamentary Guardianship – What Happens After a Child’s Parents Die
Testamentary Guardianship Nobody wants to think about their own inevitable death, but as a parent, it’s probably something that frequently…
How to Adopt a Family Member in BC
Many of our family law clients have come to us looking to adopt a member of their family. Be it…
IRCC News Release: Government of Canada expands settlement services for newcomers in the Prairies
May 12, 2022—Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan—Newcomers to Canada play a crucial role in our country’s future and our economic recovery from…
Adoption for LGBTQ Couples in BC
Our wonderful nation has been at the forefront of LGBTQ rights for some time now. In fact, Canada was the…
Biggest Custody Battle Mistakes – 10 Things to NOT do in Family Court
There are lots of articles and lists out there telling you what you should do in divorce court, how you…
Can You Drive High in BC? – Canada’s Cannabis Driving Limit
While it has been legal to smoke cannabis in Canada for some time now, there are some exceptions to this…
How to Handle a Shoplifting Charge in BC
A shoplifting charge is no joke in British Columbia – even if it’s your first time. You may have heard…
Alimony vs Child Support – Will You Have To Pay Your Ex?
Alimony vs Child Support Money. It’s a gas. It’s also one of the top reasons for divorce in Canada, and…
IRCC News Release: Expanding refugee access to third-country solutions: International leaders launch the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility
April 6, 2022—Ottawa—Across the globe, millions of people are displaced and in need of safety and protection. Only about 1%…
IRCC News Release: Canada welcomes over 108,000 permanent residents in early 2022
March 31, 2022—Ottawa—Immigration benefits all Canadians by driving our economy, addressing labour shortages, and strengthening our communities. In response to…
IRCC News Release: Canada expands settlement support for Ukrainians coming to Canada
March 30, 2022—Ottawa—Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to welcome Ukrainians and their families and to provide a safe haven…
IRCC News Release: Canada marks 10,000 arrivals of Afghan refugees
March 30, 2022—Ottawa, Ontario – Today, Canada marked an important milestone by welcoming over 10,000 Afghan refugees since August 2021.…
First Time Offender – Drug Trafficking
If you’re a first time offender for drug trafficking, you probably have a lot of questions. The criminal defence lawyers…
Youth Offences in British Columbia
Sadly, youth offences are all too common in Canada. According to the International Youth Survey, 37% of youth reported having…
How to Create a Joint Custody Schedule
Joint custody can be a difficult endeavour, but when done right, a proper joint custody schedule can help your children…
Abbotsford seniors fighting $11K+ in border fines issued during Nooksack flood emergency
“Where was the dignity? It makes no sense to me.” – Uphar Dhaliwal, representing couple facing over $11,000 in fines…
Canada Accepting Ukrainian Refugees Displaced by Russian Invasion
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada is accepting Ukrainian refugees who have been displaced by Russia’s invasion. It was also announced…
Can I get in trouble if my boyfriend sells drugs?
We recently stumbled upon this Quora thread where an anonymous user asks, “My boyfriend sells drugs without me knowing and…
Where can I Smoke Weed in BC?
Now that marijuana is legal in Canada, experienced stoners and rookie smokers alike are asking the question: Where can I…
What Hallucinogens are Legal in British Columbia?
There’s been quite a lot of media attention on hallucinogenic drugs. Around the world, substances such as psilocybin and LSD…
Are Drugs Legal in Vancouver?
“Are drugs legal in Vancouver?” Drug laws are slowly becoming more lenient here in British Columbia. This year alone has…
Open job position: Legal Assistant or Paralegal
POSITION: FAMILY LAW LEGAL ASSISTANT or PARALEGAL DD Law Group is on the lookout for a hard-working, dynamic, fun and…
Minister Fraser welcomes home Afghan refugees who worked for NATO
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced yesterday that Canada will take a leading role in resettling Afghan refugees who worked…
Canada launches new initiative to protect vulnerable women and girls in Central America
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada launched a new initiative yesterday to protect vulnerable women and girls who have been forcibly…
How Bad is a Theft Charge in BC?
What is the charge for theft in Canada? So you got caught taking something that wasn’t exactly your’s. Now you…
Is Joint Custody Right for You?
Joint custody can be one of the best child custody decisions for your family. In fact, the American Psychological Association…
Hate Speech Laws in British Columbia
Hate speech laws have been the topic of heated debate over the last decade across Canada. While some see hate…
What is a Marriage Agreement?
Thinking about getting married? If you’re getting married soon, you’ve probably heard from at least a few people that you…
What is a Custody Modification?
It can be very difficult to obtain a custody modification in BC. A custody modification is a legal request to…
Do Most Couples Regret Divorce?
Do most couples regret divorce? It’s a common question among couples who have decided on separating. If you’re looking to…
Divorcing a Narcissist
There’s a famous scene in Breaking Bad where Walter White displays what a true narcissist at their worst can be…
How to Sponsor Your Parents for Immigration to Canada in 2021
If you’re taking the time to read this article, you’re probably lucky enough to have one or both of your…
IRCC to accept a record number of applications for the 2021 Parents and Grandparents Program
Canada’s Parents and Grandparents (PGP) Program is unique in the world. It gives families the chance to reunite here, providing…
Minister Mendicino launches a dedicated refugee stream for human rights defenders
July 16, 2021—Ottawa—The work of human rights defenders is essential to promote and protect the human rights of people around…
New open work permit available for recent permanent residency applicants
The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship announced today that, beginning July 26, 2021, individuals…
How to get a Marriage Annulment in B.C.
Marriage annulment can be a viable alternative to ending a marriage and there are many reasons why somebody would want…
Infant Adoption in British Columbia
If you’re a hopeful parent, looking to adopt a child, you’re very well aware of how difficult the process of…
What is Spousal Support?
Spousal support, which is also commonly referred to as alimony or maintenance, is money paid to an ex-spouse after a…
Travel Restrictions Update – How to Travel to Canada from India & Pakistan
On April 22, 2021, the government of Canada suspended flights from India and Pakistan as a precaution to minimize the…
The Mr. Big Police Investigation – How Real Life Sting Operations Work in BC
From 21 Jump Street to Reservoir Dogs, the undercover cop trope has embedded itself into pop culture. We’re all familiar…
Essential Worker & Canadian Immigrant? You need to know Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan for 2021-2023
Each year, Canada releases an Immigration Levels Plan. The Immigration Levels Plan is a guideline that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship…
Pathway to Citizenship for Essential Workers and University Graduates
On April 14, 2021 the Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced an innovative pathway…
Single Parent Adoption in British Columbia
The process of adopting a child can be scary, especially if you are pursuing a single parent adoption. But at…
Interim Orders and Temporary Custody
Child custody issues are some of the most common and most stressful problems that we see here at Dhanu Dhaliwal…
PGWP Holders Eligible for New Open Work Permit
International students bring so much to Canada, contributing over $21 billion annually to our economy and supporting the vitality of…
B.C. judge says polyamorous dad not breaking COVID orders with new partner and her husband
A British Columbia judge says a polyamorous father is not breaching the province’s COVID-19 health orders by sharing his Squamish…
A Guide to Firearms Offences in British Columbia
Firearms offences are incredibly serious, especially if you already have a criminal record. In this post, we’ll help you better…
Karima Baloch, Pakistani human rights activist, found dead in Toronto
A dissident Pakistani human rights activist living in exile in Canada has been found dead in Toronto after going missing.…
How the Landscape of Canadian Law Has Changed With Covid 19
VIDEO PRESENTATION: Rob Dhanu, Co-founder of Dhanu Dhaliwal Law Group, former BC Crown Prosecutor and current lead litigator in criminal…
How to Get Sole Custody in British Columbia
Child custody is one of the biggest issues in family law matters. Divorcing couples often fight bitterly over custody, and…
The BC PNP – Everything You Need to Know about the Provincial Nominee Program
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) is the province’s only direct economic immigration tool for bringing in new…
How to Apply for Refugee Claims For Canada
Canada is a thriving and progressive nation that welcomes refugees claims from most countries across the world. As a refugee…
What’s in Store for the 2020 PGP
On October 5, 2020, The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the opening of…
IRCC will Speed up Spousal Applications Process
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is taking action to help families build their lives together in Canada by expediting the…
Canadian Travel Restrictions Update – October 2020
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Marco E. L. Mendicino, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair and Health Minister…
Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in BC
A spinal cord injury is devastating. For many, it can mean the loss of a job, as well as quality…
BC Adoption Lawyer
There are few things in life more exciting, and more fraught with anxiety, than adopting a child. Adoption is a…
A Guide to Marijuana Laws in British Columbia
As you’re probably well aware, recreational marijuana is legal across Canada. Hooray! But that doesn’t mean you’re free to smoke…
How to Overcome a Finding of Inadmissibility
An inadmissibility immigration lawyer at Dhanu Dhaliwal Law Group will show you how to overcome a finding of inadmissibility and…
What to Expect from Divorce Mediation
Divorce mediation is a popular method of negotiating a divorce settlement with a spouse. In mediation, you and your spouse…
Who Watches The Watchers? BC Courts May Face Devastating Issues Because of Covid Delays
QUIS CUSTODIET IPSOS CUSTODES - “WHO WATCHES THE WATCHERS?” ~JuvenalA growing tsunami of criminal cases may be at risk of…
The Current Process For Trying Members Of Canada’s Armed Forces Violates Their Constitutional Rights
Court drops bomb by ruling against constitutionality of military justice system. Decision will impact more than half of the military’s…
Local Abbotsford Mother Fights To Have Children Returned From Lebanon
If there is any risk of your children being removed from Canada without your consent during separation or divorce, it…
Objective Fault Standard For Section 145(3) Breach Offences
R. v. Zora (2019 BCCA 9) Court of Appeal finds that the duty-based nature of s. 145(3), combined with the…
Wunderlist: The (False) History & (True) Philosophy Of Lists
Anyone who knows me knows that I love history and how we came to be where we are today. That…