Commencing my practice in 1984, I later acquired the practices of Harry Robertson and John Robertson Q.C. in 1999, and founded Aitken Robertson Barristers & Solicitors. With over 35 years of experience as a criminal lawyer, I have defended a full range of criminal charges. From impaired driving causing death to domestic assault, I have taken thousands of cases to trial and have negotiated even more favourable resolutions for clients without proceeding to trial at all. I have built a successful firm that reaches far across southern, central and eastern Ontario, mentoring high caliber lawyers and paralegals. I continually invest in ongoing legal education for both myself and my staff to ensure that the Aitken Robertson firm is abreast the latest research and criminal law evolutions.
My long career has shown me that despite many files being similar as to the facts, the aspirations and needs of each client are incredibly unique. My approach is to first listen to my client without judgement in order to get their side of the story. The vast majority of my clients are ordinary good people that have made a bad decision or have been unlucky as to how an evening unfolded. Second, at trial, I not only focus on what the Crown witness says, but try to analyze why they chose that particular wording or phrase in their answer when there were many possibilities. I have found this approach to be highly effective in cross examination and can assist in probing whether a particular witness is lying or is biased against my client.
The conversation I have with a potential client is pretty simple; I promise I will do my best. I will devote my time to improve your chances, and to win where I can. I undertake to give honest, blunt advice as to what the realistic range of outcomes are. In my years of trials and in the legal trenches, I have seen just about everything. Clients benefit from the wisdom and experience I can offer. My clients trust me. If you hire me, I think you will too.
