Here’s the truth nobody tells you: judges like people who are prepared. You don’t have to sound like a lawyer. You just have to show you are serious and factual.
Build a simple binder (or folder on your phone)
Split it into four sections:
- Timeline – A one-page list of events in order (date/time → what happened → who was there).
- Evidence / disclosure – Copies of what police / Crown claim.
- Your notes – What actually happened, your health, anything that contradicts them.
- Questions to ask – Stuff you plan to ask the officer or witness.
Tip: When an officer says something in court you didn’t expect, write down the exact words as best you can. You might use it in closing to show contradictions.
Why timeline matters
Your timeline stops you from getting lost. Court moves fast. People talk fast. The Crown might jump around.
When you have your own timeline, you can say:
“On July 22 at approximately 11:40 PM I was already sedated at the hospital. I was not capable of understanding any request for samples.”
Short, clean, confident. That is credibility.
Questions list = your weapon
Before trial (or any serious hearing), write out questions like:
- “Did you perform any standardized sobriety tests?”
- “Did you record video?”
- “Were there any witnesses who contradicted you?”
- “Did you tell me I had the right to counsel?”
When you read from a list, you look controlled. You don’t look angry or panicked. That matters a lot.
Do this now
If your paperwork is a mess, send us:
- Photos / scans of what you have
- Your next court date
- What you’re most scared of (be honest – that’s what we solve first)
Send it to support@self-represented-help.ca with subject “ORGANIZE ME”.
We’ll tell you what goes in section 1, 2, 3, 4.