Your Lawyer

Over 32 years of experience
I have been a trial lawyer for over 32 years, and in private practice as a criminal defence lawyer since 1998.
I defend complex and important cases throughout the Toronto area, and elsewhere in Ontario. I am committed to providing my clients with the best defence possible, and this is reflected in the philosophy that I bring to my work:
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My preparation is very careful and detailed, and
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I accept only a limited number of cases at one time, to ensure a very strong focus
Prior to entering private practice, I worked for over ten years as an Assistant Crown Attorney (Prosecutor) in the Toronto criminal courts. I prosecuted a variety of criminal code offences, including high profile murder cases.
In 1993 I was presented with an award by Toronto Police Service Juvenile Task Force, for my skill and dedication in heading up a series of child prostitution cases.
Discretion
Discretion is a key element of my practice. I avoid the press, seek to preserve my clients' confidentiality and privacy, and deal in a sensitive manner with issues that are often delicate and sometimes embarrassing.
R. v. Kuntz
R. v. Jung
R. v. Glasgow & Glasgow
Courtroom Sketches of Patrick Metzler by CP24 Artist Marianne Boucher
Community
I have been an Instructor and Demonstrator at the Law Society of Ontario Advocacy Course. I taught Criminal Law and Procedure at Ryerson University, and received the University's “Excellence in Teaching Award”.
I have lectured at the Ontario Provincial Police, the Ontario Police College, University of Toronto, Humber College, and the Toronto Catholic School Board, on Expert Evidence, Admissibility, Preparation, and Court Testimony,
I am a frequent legal commentator on AM 640 Radio.
My Practical Experience
I have appeared as counsel before many tribunals, and was appointed by the Federal Government as the Presiding Officer in the 2003 Videotron Competition Act Inquiry (overseeing hearings in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal), and the 2004 John Deere Competition Act Inquiry.
Before my role as an Assistant Crown Attorney, I was a Prosecutor for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. I argued cases throughout the Province, dealing with environmental, constitutional, aboriginal, and treaty issues.
What Clients Say
“Patrick had my drunk driving charge reduced to a careless driving charge ... How did he do this? Patrick asked for details about my work situation that would help the case, pushed me to collect letters of reference, met with the Crown, and made the best case possible for me. Patrick's efforts paid off. A friend of mine, using another lawyer, did not have the same experience. She hasn't driven for 2 years. Hire Patrick. He will do his best for you.”
- July 2020
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24 Hour Cell
Toronto Office
Serving all of Ontario, including
Toronto | Peel | York | Durham | Halton | Niagara | Middlesex | Peterborough | Orillia | Simcoe | Muskoka