Criminal defence · Québec
VP Avocats defends people charged in Québec with rigour, clarity and humanity. We help you understand the real risks and make the right decisions at the right time.
Priority areas
Sexual offences
Sexual-offence charges call for rigorous preparation, close reading of the evidence and a careful understanding of the special rules that apply, including those governing the complainant's testimony.
Learn more about Sexual offences
Impaired driving
Impaired driving is one of the most common criminal charges in Québec. It can affect your licence, your vehicle, your employment and your ability to travel internationally.
Learn more about Impaired driving
Theft, fraud & economic crimes
Economic charges include fraud, theft, breach of trust, forgery and money laundering. Files can be voluminous.
Learn more about Theft, fraud & economic crimes
Domestic violence
Files in a spousal context receive particular attention from the courts. Conditions imposed at first appearance — no-contact orders, removal from the home, weapon surrender — can quickly disrupt daily, family and professional life.
Learn more about Domestic violence5.0·74+ Google reviews
See Google reviewsEmergency & release
We intervene around the clock for arrest, detention and release hearings.
Do not wait until the first appearance.
Our practice is dedicated to criminal defence, not diluted across other fields.
Careful analysis of the evidence, deadlines and procedural issues.
Clear communication, without unnecessary jargon, in a difficult moment.
A 24/7 line for arrests and detentions.
Active representation before the courts of Québec.
How we take on a file
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Free first call
A first contact, without obligation, to understand the situation.
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Initial analysis
We assess the facts, the evidence and possible next steps.
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In-depth consultation
A detailed consultation, paid if necessary, with clear recommendations.
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Retainer and fees
We explain the scope of the retainer, the deposit and the terms before any engagement.
Our team
At VP Avocats, our team is devoted to criminal defence with rigour and attentive listening. Our lawyers stand by you at every step of your file, in clear language without unnecessary jargon. Meet the team and their practice.
Meet the team
Partner — criminal law
Me Velandia holds a Bachelor of Political Science from Concordia University and a Bachelor of Laws from the Université de Montréal, and has been a member of the Barreau des Laurentides-Lanaudière since 2021. She completed her articling and began her career in that region of Québec within one of the most experienced criminal-defence firms, before founding her own practice. A seasoned litigator, she has pleaded before several courts, including the Court of Appeal, the Superior Court and the Court of Québec. With close to 500 files under her belt, Me Velandia focuses on offences against the person, including domestic violence and sexual offences. Experienced in impaired-driving matters, she works to help you avoid a criminal record or to keep any sentence to a minimum. Me Velandia has also taught as a lecturer in the police-techniques program at Cégep de Maisonneuve, where she was responsible for educating the province's future police officers on the legal issues of their work.
Read the full biographyOther practice areas
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Featured content
What to know before your first meeting with a criminal-defence lawyer.
Watch all videosGood to know
In Québec, «droit criminel» often refers to what elsewhere is called «droit pénal». VP Avocats focuses on offences under the Criminal Code and certain federal statutes. Not every provincial infraction or ticket is handled.
Our offices
Main office in Rosemère, second office in Gatineau. VP Avocats serves clients across Québec depending on the file; the 24/7 line is shared between both offices.
VP Avocats practises criminal defence. Some common requests fall outside our scope:
Fees
For guidance only, most criminal files fall into three broad categories. The final classification always depends on the evidence and the specific facts of your situation.
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Types of files concerned
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Types of files concerned
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Types of files concerned
Factors that increase complexity in general
Drafting motions · Facilitation conferences · Case-management conferences · Cross-complaints · High-profile files · Files with co-accused · Files with numerous breaches of conditions
Territories served
Two offices, Rosemère and Gatineau, and representation before the courthouses and municipal courts of the territory served.
Contact
A first call is free and without obligation. For urgent situations, call our 24/7 line directly.
