Rule #1: You’re not chatting with a buddy
The Crown is not your friend. They’re not your enemy either. They’re a professional whose job is to prosecute.
You need to be calm, respectful, and careful.
Never blurt out “Okay fine, I was drunk,” or anything like that. You just built their case for them.
What you CAN say safely
"Hi, I'm self-represented on this matter. I'm trying to understand the case against me. Can you please confirm what disclosure has been provided so far and whether there's any outstanding video or medical records? I also want to confirm what you're actually alleging I did wrong so I can respond properly."
This does 3 things:
- Shows respect → helpful later in front of a judge.
- Asks for disclosure (critical).
- Forces them to define the accusation instead of keeping it vague and scary.
Ask about resolution, but do NOT admit guilt
You can ask:
"Is there any resolution you’re prepared to consider at this stage, or is the Crown intending to proceed to trial?"
That’s clean. You didn't confess. You just asked how serious they’re going.
What NOT to do
Do not walk up and say:
"Look, I just need this to go away because I’ll lose my job. Can you please help me?"
Now your desperation is on record. If they smell panic, they stop offering flexibility.
Before you speak to Crown, do this
Write down:
- Your next court date
- What you think the Crown’s main story is
- One question you need answered (example: “Are you saying I refused while sedated?”)
Email that to
support@self-represented-help.ca
with subject
“CROWN CONVERSATION CHECK”.
We’ll sanity-check your script so you don’t accidentally hand them a confession.
One careful conversation can save you months of stress.