What struck us the most about Godfred T. Chongatera was his expertise in multiple areas of practice, on top of criminal law. If your criminal case overlaps with, say, immigration issues or business matters, having a lawyer with cross-disciplinary awareness avoids gaps in representation.

It also helps that he has successfully argued motions and litigations before all court levels in Nova Scotia, even the Federal Court of Appeal and the Tax Court of Canada. This gives us confidence since he knows how different courts operate and can present cases effectively. 

That said, we noticed how proactive he is with every case. Rather than accepting or reducing the prosecution’s case or deal, he challenges evidence, questions witnesses, and works toward a better outcome.

Another big plus is his experience before regulatory and administrative tribunals beyond the courtroom. For instance, he can handle related legal challenges involving government or professional-licensing issues alongside criminal matters.

Just note that they’re closed on weekends. Still, we have to say how accommodating and consistent their communication is, especially with all the stress from the legal pressure. 

Did amazing had my case thrown out

“Great lawyer !!!! Did amazing had my case thrown out , couldn’t be more greatful if you need a lawyer in the Halifax area Godfred is your man”

Chris, Google Review

Very professional 

“Very professional at what He does and well understanding”

crepto shake, Google Review

With over 30 years of experience, Mark T Knox K.C. (King’s Counsel) has been providing counsel across criminal defence, civil litigation, and regulatory matters. He has an impressive range of practice areas beyond criminal law, such as family law, traffic offences, business, and more. 

We also have to point out that he has a King’s Counsel designation, so hiring him means you’ll be working with a lawyer recognized by peers and the legal establishment for outstanding skill and integrity. 

On that note, Mark can go through different cases across every court in Nova Scotia, like the Federal court and other Canadian jurisdictions. He knows how to adapt strategy to any level of the justice system.

We did come across some reports of pricey billings, though. You’ll have to get a clear picture of possible fees before committing.  

The good news is that he goes all in to get you the upper hand, such as using expert witnesses to turn the tables around and give you an advantage in court. 

Caring and understanding 

“I was referred to Mr.Mark knox . I was so great fully appreciated that he accepted my case, there is no words that can explain how caring and understanding my situation.His assistant Leona tulk was also very helpful with sending me emails updating me about what’s going on and reminders for payments . I highly recommend Mark knox if someone looking for a lawyer . I never forget everything you have done for me.”

Rajbir Bajwa, Google Review

Capable and efficient 

“…Mark is trustworthy. He helped my friend and I handle two very troublesome cases. His team is capable and efficient. Even though my English is not good, he tried to communicate with me via email whenever possible (which I requested, so I could use a translator). This is a very powerful team. They will be my first choice when I have trouble.”

Ming, Google Review

We like that Jennifer L. MacDonald can skillfully represent a wide range of criminal offences, like impaired driving, theft, fraud, drug possession, and more. The clients we spoke with were satisfied; some had their cases dismissed, and some got away with minimal penalties.

Given her thorough process, we don’t find her impressive track record all that surprising. Her approach includes conflict check, retainer agreement, disclosure review, legal-options discussion, and customized strategy—all that while keeping you in the loop and well-informed.

We also have to give her props for keeping up with her clients’ concerns, updates, and just personal check-ins. Many clients have felt reassured that Jeniffer had their backs, and it wasn’t empty promises; she had solid game plans and countermeasures in place.

Pricing-wise, we found some sentiments from past clients that other fees can be expensive. But hey, kudos to her negotiating skills, especially with bail and release-condition application—it had saved many of her clients from the worst-case scenario.

Catches any small detail

“Jennifer is very professional. She is thorough with her work. She gets the facts out and catches any small detail. We are so grateful with the work she did for us & our family. We cannot thank Jennifer enough for her excellent work.”

Karen Wasson, Google Review

Responds quickly 

“Jennifer MacDonald was excellent to work with. She responds quickly to inquiries, and answers questions with knowledge and professionalism. She works tirelessly and delivered a positive outcome that saved further financial and emotional stress. I would highly recommend her and her team for your legal needs.”

Jan Timberlake, Google Review

The thing about Carbo Kwan is that she’s the sole practitioner at the firm. In other words, you’ll get one lawyer to manage your case from start to finish, which means fewer hand-offs and clearer communication about your defence strategy. 

Her broad criminal-law service really comes through when cases get more specific. If you’re facing charges like impaired driving, youth offence, or a pardon application, her skills will give you an advantage—more than you’d get from a generalist with limited experience in those areas. 

Another thing we appreciate is the full and frank disclosure about legal costs before you even sign a retainer. 

On the flipside, they don’t offer pro bono or contingency arrangements: you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket or qualify for Legal Aid. 

Here’s the silver lining: they’re one of the most affordable on the list. You can book a 30-minute initial consultation for just $20+HST, encouraging people to get legal advice early and prevent costly mistakes later. 

Very good job on my criminal case

“She is very good and professional lawyer , she do very good job on my criminal case. Thanks carbo”

Lakatos Lasszlo, Google Review

Helped through absolutely everything 

“Definitely the best criminal lawyer. Highly recommended. She helped through absolutely everything and was side by side through all the process.”

Diego Cerdio, Google Review

We’re impressed at how Singleton & Associates regularly handles serious offences, such as sexual assault, weapons charges, fraud, and complex impaired-driving or motor-vehicle cases.

It’s worth mentioning that Tom Singleton can successfully work his way through cases involving issues like unlawful search and seizure, detention, or other rights breaches. His know-how in Charter-based defences can make the difference between a dismissal and a conviction.

He’s also fluent in English and French, which is a big advantage. If you speak French, then you’ll be able to communicate better and understand court submissions and defence strategies well, giving you some control of your situation since you’re aware of what’s happening.  

Speaking of communication, we did note some concerns with slow responses, which can be frustrating. And it’s best to double-check their fees upfront, since some clients have been caught off guard by unexpectedly high charges. 

The bright side? You pretty much get access to a large team of specialized lawyers, which means your case can benefit from collective experience and more chances that someone is available when you need them.

Result was judge dropping all of my charges

“I recently got myself into a bad situation and needed legal help. I had seen Singleton and associates around online and decided to contact them. Tom was very helpful, straightforward, and answered all of my questions, he knows what he’s talking about and how to get it done. There was no bullshit. He represented me in court and the end result was the judge dropping all of my charges. I couldn’t have been happier. Thanks Tom!”

Clayton Harvey, Google Review

Extremely helpful

“Tom is the best! Extremely helpful throughout the entire process! Letting me know what to expect! Definitely will recommend!”

Graham Wilson, Google Review