Assault at a Bar or Party? What You Need to Know About Your Rights

If an assault happens in British Columbia—and there are many different types of assault—it does not matter if it happens at a bar or a party or in the street or at home. Assault is assault. So, when we talk about what your rights are, it depends on whether you are the victim of an assault or the person who perpetrated or is accused of perpetrating the assault. Let’s look at those two cases one by one.

The Victim

If you are the victim of an assault, then you should first try to get to a safe place if you are able to. If you are at a bar or party, then tell the bartender or waitress that you have been assaulted and ask to go to a back room or office. If you cannot speak openly, in British Columbia there are recognized hand signals and drink signals, such as asking for an “angel shot” that signal you need help.

You could leave the bar or party, but it would be better if you left with someone rather than alone, especially if you are injured. If leaving alone is your only choice, then try to get some help immediately, even on the street, by a passerby or walk into a restaurant or hotel and ask for help.

Next, if you are safe, then call the police. Call 9-1-1 or walk into a police department office if one is nearby. Tell them you have been assaulted, and if you need medical attention say so. If you feel you are in danger, then say so. Police and emergency services will then get you the help you need and explain what to do next.

The Person Who Did the Assault or Is Accused of It

If you assaulted someone or are accused of assaulting someone or arrested for assault, our recommendations are always the same:

• Hire a lawyer as soon as possible, especially one with experience in criminal cases. You have a right to legal counsel, and if you cannot afford one, one will be appointed to you.
• Keep quiet. Do not discuss anything that happened with anyone except your lawyer.
• Rely on your lawyer. This means talk to your lawyer, be honest with your lawyer, and do not try to investigate your case yourself.

If you have been charged with assault, please contact Gagan Nahal for a free consultation in Vancouver at (604) 527-4769 as soon as possible. Mr. Nahal’s law practice focuses on criminal defence law, and he has extensive experience in this area of the law. 

Gagan Nahal is a criminal defence lawyer based in Surrey, British Columbia, although he has represented clients across Canada. He works vigorously and tirelessly defending his clients.

If you have any questions about this article or you would like to talk to Mr. Nahal, please call him directly at (604) 527-4769.