Brianna HarrisonWhen big names like Johnny Depp, Emma Roberts, and Eminem made headlines for domestic disputes, the world saw just how complicated these cases can get.
Behind every story like theirs are skilled lawyers who know how to handle sensitive situations with strategy and compassion. Hiring the right legal representation can make all the difference.
That’s why we rounded up the top domestic violence lawyers in Toronto. Here are trusted pros known for their high win rates, dedication, and ability to fight for justice.
How much do domestic violence lawyers charge in Toronto?
In Toronto, domestic violence lawyers charge from $250 to $600 per hour, depending on the lawyer’s experience, reputation, and complexity of the case.
Some lawyers may offer flat rates or payment plans, while others charge a retainer fee upfront that covers a set number of hours.
1. Karapancev Law Professional Corporation
Business Address: 133 Richmond St W, Suite 200
Website: https://karapancevlaw.ca/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/karapancev-law
Contact Details: +1 437-747-9102
Business Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Karapancev Law was founded by Alexander Karapancev, a well-respected criminal defense lawyer often featured on CBC, CTV, CP24, and the Toronto Star. His firm has offices downtown making them easy for GTA clients to access.
Their forte is defending domestic violence allegations. They examine every charge and piece of evidence before building a defense strategy.
They’re known for holding the Crown to the burden of proof and exploring every possible path to achieve a successful outcome. This is probably why they usually have charges withdrawn.
We like that they don’t follow a strict 9-to-5 schedule. Their 24/7 availability can make a world of difference when you’re in a stressful situation.
If you want to feel them out without committing, they offer a free consultation session. Just note that they might be hard to book because of their high demand.
I don’t know where I would be without him
“I was falsely accused of domestic assault, and I felt completely helpless. The whole situation was overwhelming, but Alex fought for me every step of the way, and it took over a year, but after going through the trial… I was finally acquitted. So honestly… I just wanna say I don’t know where I would be without him and his team. So if you’re facing charges and need a lawyer in Toronto who won’t give up on you, Karapancev Law is the best choice.”
– jose harayo, Google Review
After a few court dates, the charges were dropped
“My friend was dealing with a domestic assault charge recently. I reached out to Karapancev Law after a bit of Googling and was surprised by how quickly they took action. They took time to explain what could happen and how we’d respond. After a few court dates, the charges were dropped. Can’t thank them enough.”
– Roseanne Frith, Google Review
2. Shaffie Law
Business Address: 65 Front St E, Suite 300
Website: https://www.shaffielaw.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaffielaw/
Contact Details: +1 647-500-5186
Business Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Shayan Shaffie has been defending everyday Ontarians since 2014. As a former Crown Attorney, he’s been on both sides of the courtroom, so he knows how prosecutors think and how to build a strong defense for his clients.
His firm focuses heavily on mild domestic violence charges against first-time offenders, usually professionals like engineers, bankers, and IT workers. Thanks to their strategic framework, their track record includes hundreds of dropped domestic cases.
Unlike other legal offices that bill hourly, they prefer a block fee system—a set amount that covers specific parts of the case. That way, clients can freely communicate with their lawyer without fear of surprise costs.
For those who want to understand their next steps, the office provides a free consultation. A minor drawback is that their responses can sometimes be a bit slow.
My charges were successfully dropped
“It’s hard to put into words what Shaffie did for me. I will be forever grateful for having him on my side at a very difficult time when charged with domestic violence and assault. He conducted himself with utmost professionalism and the right amount of compassion. His no-nonsense approach is facts and experience- based and it gets you results. My charges were successfully dropped in 4 short months, an outstanding result in the case. Not only has he skillfully managed my defense, but he was also instrumental in suggesting and recommending a timely and affordable professional counseling process, much needed and proven helpful in the end. I wish there were more that I could do to spread the word about Shaffie, so more people can benefit from his expertise. Thank you so much, Shayan.”
– Surpr J., Google Review
Saved from ending up with a criminal record
“If I could leave more than 5, I definitely would. Mr Shaffie is the “Guy.” If you ended up in some domestic violence situation, and you know how this one usually goes in Canada for men!!!! Mr. Shaffie is the man to call asap and keep the ball rolling, and most likely get you saved from ending up with a criminal record. Thank you so much, Mr. Shaffie.”
– Oliver Rabiej, Google Review
3. Motevalli Law Group
Business Address: 155 Church St C
Website: https://www.toronto911.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chargedintoronto/
Contact Details: +1 416-333-2929
Business Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Led by Hossein Motevalli, Motevalli Law Group has been handling criminal law and litigation cases for over 10 years. No wonder the firm has been recognized by major outlets like the Toronto Star, CP24, and the Law Society of Ontario.
They mostly work on domestic assault charges and related offenses like assault with a weapon, forcible confinement, and criminal harassment. They examine the facts, challenge the evidence, and present a strong case in your defense.
They’re known for meticulously disputing facts and exposing procedural errors that can lead to reduced or even dismissed charges.
Financially, they offer flexible payment plans. They believe in providing clients access to quality legal representation, no matter their background.
While we appreciate their specialty in domestic assault cases, we think their communication needs work. We heard that they can be slow to respond.
Helped to get the best possible results!
“Mr. Motevalli is the best. I can not thank him and his team enough for absolutely everything they did to help me. Very friendly and helpful. Always there with anything I needed or wanted answers for. Helped to get the best possible results! I can not thank him or show him enough appreciation! I highly recommend him and his team! Thank you, Mr. Motevalli!”
– dee McClure, Google Review
Genuinely cares about his clients
“I had the pleasure of working with Lawyer Hoseein Motevalli, and I can confidently say he went above and beyond expectations. His professionalism, dedication, and deep knowledge truly made a difference in our case. He guided us every step of the way, handled everything with care and precision, and made a stressful process so much easier to manage. I highly recommend Mr. Motevalli to anyone seeking a lawyer who is not only highly skilled but also genuinely cares about his clients. His professionalism and commitment are outstanding! Thank you, Mr Motevalli.”
– kathy moba, Google Review
4. Daniel Brown Law
Business Address: 103 Church St #400
Website: https://www.danielbrownlaw.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DanielBrownLaw/
Contact Details: (416) 297-7200
Business Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Daniel Brown’s firm has handled more than 7,000 cases in the span of over 20+ years. His work has been showcased in the media, such as Global News, The Globe and Mail, and the Toronto Star, which speaks to his credibility.
We appreciate the firm’s focus on pre-charge advocacy. This means that before formal charges are even laid, the team can step in to negotiate with the police, present evidence, and sometimes prevent charges from moving forward.
But if the charges continue, you’re in good hands—they’ve successfully defended hundreds of domestic assault charges across Ontario.
In terms of payment, they offer a block-fee billing system, a fee structure that eliminates the stress of hourly billing. This certainly provides peace of mind.
Most clients appear to be satisfied with their services, but there are a few who have reported rude behavior.
Worked hard to get the best possible outcome for me
“I can’t thank Daniel enough for the support and dedication he showed throughout my case. From the very beginning, he listened without judgment, gave honest guidance, and worked hard to get the best possible outcome for me. His professionalism and compassion made an incredibly difficult situation feel very manageable, and I always felt like he truly had my back. I would highly recommend Daniel to anyone in need of a knowledgeable and trustworthy lawyer. I’m beyond grateful for what he helped me achieve.”
– Brendan Boulton, Google Review
Truly amazing and handled my case smoothly
“Mark at Daniel brown law was truly amazing and handled my case smoothly. Any questions or concerns that I had throughout the process were answered honestly and in a timely fashion. He is professional and efficient. I’m very pleased with the outcome.”
– Isaac B, Google Review
5. What The Law
Business Address: 330 Hwy 7 Unit#305, Richmond Hill
Website: https://whatthelaw.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthelaw_firm/
Contact Details: +1 647-277-2714
Business Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
What The Law is led by Mustafa Sheikh, a highly respected criminal lawyer. So respected, in fact, that he’s often invited to share his expert legal opinion at CTV, CBC, and CP24.
We love his firm’s wide service range, serving clients in Aurora, Barrie, Brampton, Mississauga, Vaughan, Oshawa, Hamilton—just to name a few. No matter where you are in Ontario, you have access to a legal team.
When it comes to domestic assault defense, their lawyers will build your defense, argue your case in court, and make sure your rights are fully protected at every stage. They’re also known for breaking down complex legal processes into simple terms.
Clients love their transparent and flexible payment options, too. This helps them focus on their case without added financial stress.
What they don’t appreciate, however, is the occasional communication delays.
Got the charges withdrawn swiftly
“I was being accused unfairly of simple assault by the province and was facing life-altering consequences. Mustafa and his team worked swiftly and professionally, and got the charges withdrawn. I can now work towards maintaining a criminal-free record and live my best life. Thank you, @what the law, for being a strong helping hand when I needed it.”
– Mike Wilson, Google Review
Got the charges dropped in no time
“I referred Mustafa to my friend for an Assault charge. He and his team left no stone unturned to get the charges dropped in no time. Highly recommended team of lawyers at ‘ What The Law’.”
– Ash Massey, Google Review
