Facing a criminal charge is one of the most serious and stressful experiences a person can go through. At Orr, Cabot, Crosbie, Oley Law (OCCO Law) in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, we provide trusted, experienced legal defence for individuals charged with impaired driving, assault, theft, and other criminal offences. In today’s digital world, we’ve seen more and more people turn to platforms like ChatGPT and other AI tools for quick answers about criminal law. While technology can be useful in some cases, when it comes to protecting your rights and freedom, relying on AI-generated advice can do real harm.
What Is ChatGPT and Why Are People Using It for Legal Advice?
ChatGPT is an example of generative AI, which means it can create text responses based on the questions users ask. It’s designed to sound human, helpful, and intelligent—which makes it appealing to people searching for legal answers online.
You might type in questions like:
- “Will I go to jail for a first-time assault charge?”
- “Can I beat an impaired driving charge in Newfoundland?”
- “What should I say in court if I plead not guilty?”
And within seconds, ChatGPT gives you an answer that sounds authoritative and well-informed. But here’s the problem: just because it sounds right doesn’t mean it is right.
Self-Representation Is Legal—But AI Isn’t a Substitute for a Criminal Defence Lawyer
In Canada, you are allowed to represent yourself in criminal court. That’s your legal right. But having the right to do something doesn’t always make it the best choice—especially when your freedom, record, and reputation are on the line.
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT do not replace the role of a trained criminal defence lawyer. In fact, relying on these platforms for legal strategy or courtroom preparation can result in critical mistakes that affect the outcome of your case.
Here’s why:
1. AI Tools Are Prone to Hallucinations
AI doesn’t understand the law—it predicts words based on patterns in text. That means it can sometimes “hallucinate” and generate completely false or misleading legal information. For example, it might invent a statute that doesn’t exist, misinterpret sentencing guidelines, or offer outdated or inaccurate explanations of your rights.
2. Provincial Differences Matter
The Criminal Code of Canada is federal, but how charges are prosecuted, how the courts operate, and even how certain defences are interpreted can vary by province. Advice that may apply in Ontario or Alberta could be totally inappropriate in Newfoundland and Labrador. AI tools don’t always account for these regional nuances.
3. AI Can’t Evaluate the Evidence Against You
No two criminal cases are alike. Your background, the specific facts of your case, the strength of the Crown’s evidence, and even the local courthouse practices all play a role in how your case unfolds. AI can’t review disclosure documents, cross-examine witnesses, or determine the most effective defence strategy based on your unique circumstances.
4. You Could Hurt Your Case Without Realizing It
People who rely on ChatGPT or similar tools for help in criminal cases may unintentionally say the wrong thing in court, miss a deadline, or accept a plea deal that’s not in their best interest. What seems like “just information” from AI can lead to irreversible consequences, including fines, jail time, or a criminal record.
5. No Legal Privilege or Confidentiality
When you consult with a criminal defence lawyer, you’re protected by solicitor-client privilege. That means anything you say is confidential. With AI tools, your information may be logged, stored, or analyzed—with no established legal protections in place.
How OCCO Law Protects Your Rights and Your Future
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence, you need someone in your corner who understands the law—and knows how to apply it effectively in the real world. At OCCO Law, our criminal defence team brings years of courtroom experience and a deep knowledge of how cases are handled here in Newfoundland and Labrador.
We’ll work with you to:
- Understand the charges and possible outcomes
- Develop a strategic defence tailored to your situation
- Represent you in court and communicate with the Crown
- Help you avoid or reduce penalties whenever possible
Whether you’re facing a minor summary offence or a more serious indictable charge, we’ll provide you with clear advice, strong advocacy, and peace of mind.
We Support Informed Decisions—But They Should Be Based on Truth
At OCCO Law, we believe people should have access to legal information—but it must be accurate, reliable, and grounded in real law. Generative AI can help raise awareness, but it doesn’t replace a trained defence lawyer who can spot issues in the evidence, protect your rights, and challenge the case against you.
If you’re using ChatGPT or other platforms to learn more about your situation, take the next step and speak to someone who can offer real legal advice. We’re here to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you build the strongest possible defence.
Conclusion: Charged with a Criminal Offence? Don’t Let AI Decide Your Future
ChatGPT might be good at writing stories or explaining general ideas—but it’s not equipped to protect your rights in a criminal courtroom. If you’re facing a charge in Newfoundland and Labrador, don’t leave the outcome to chance. Let our team at OCCO Law give you the experienced, reliable legal support you deserve.
Contact OCCO Law today to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll stand with you, every step of the way.