5 Best Assault Lawyers in Winnipeg with Local Insider Knowledge That Clients Value
According to the Fraser Institute, Winnipeg has one of the highest violent crime rates in the country—675 incidents per 100,000. This is more than double the national average!
In a city where crime severity often dominates headlines, being on the receiving end of an assault allegation can feel like a nightmare. This is precisely why having one of the top assault lawyers in the city is non-negotiable.
Check out our handy round-up for top-notch representation.
How much do assault lawyers charge in Winnipeg?
Assault lawyers in Winnipeg typically charge between $2,500 and $8,800 for cases that resolve without a trial. Hourly rates for senior counsel can range from $300 to $600.
1. Jessie S. Brar

Address: 444 St Mary Ave #1450
Phone: +1 204-996-8080
Business hours: Open 24/7 hours
Jessie S. Brar, a partner at Steigerwald Hodge Pinx & Brar, is a heavy hitter in the criminal defence world.
He’s known for his expertise in pre-trial applications for sexual assault cases. He works tirelessly to make sure the process remains fair and that the evidence against you is legally sound.
The same level of care extends to his work in intimate partner violence and domestic assault. He steps in as a practical shield and works toward resolutions like Peace Bonds or stays of proceedings.
And did we mention that he speaks English, Punjabi, and Hindi? Yep, this “superpower” makes him more accessible to Winnipeg’s diverse community.
With all these being said, he can be hard to book—you shouldn’t wait until the last minute to reach out.
The best lawyer I have ever had
“Jesse is an excellent lawyer. Very knowledgeable and is willing to work with you the full 100 miles. In my experience, he is the best lawyer I have ever had a great experience with. Jessie S. Brar, if I could give you ten stars, I would. Thank you very much. You are the best lawyer ever.”
— KaiserX, Google Review
Very professional and understanding
“Recently had a case of assault in which Jessie helped me. He was very quick to response always there when you need him. Very professional and understanding of your needs. He was also able to move my dates sooner before the appearance that really helped my family. I will definitely recommend him. Thank you for all your support throughout.”
— Ishika Sharma, Google Review
2. Joshua Rogala

Address: 155 Carlton St #1640
Phone: +1 204-770-6268
Business hours: Open 24/7 hours
Joshua Rogala has 10 years of solid criminal law experience. In fact, he has successfully argued and won trials and motions before every level of court, including Manitoba’s Provincial Court and Court of Appeal.
Sure, he’s a formidable force in front of a judge, but he’s also a master behind the scenes. He can resolve high-stakes situations without a trial due to his relationships with Crown Attorneys.
Sexual assault defence is his forte. He’s well-versed in common legal defences concerning consent, lack of sexual contact, and mistaken ID.
For those considering reaching out, the good news is that he offers a free initial consultation. You’ll get a realistic assessment without any upfront cost.
Understandably, he’s in high demand, so book well in advance.
Joshua Rogala is the best lawyer
“Joshua Rogala is the best lawyer. Very good at communication, even on weekends, he will reply. I will highly recommend him.”
— Harpreet Singh Dhillon, Google Review
Delivered me an unbelievable result
“Joshua is the best lawyer you will get. He listens to you and responds to your texts well. He helped me out without knowing I was gonna retain him. When I decided to retain him as my lawyer. He was able to deliver me an unbelievable result. Thank you so much, Joshua. Highly recommended.”
— 호승, Google Review
3. Matthew Gould

Address: 1212-363 Broadway
Phone: +1 204-272-7327
Business hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
As a trial lawyer in Brodsky & Company, Matthew Gould exclusively practices criminal defence law. And you better believe he’s gotten pretty good at it, since being called to the bar way back in 2008.
One area of expertise is domestic violence and assault allegations. Not only does he defend against criminal charges, but he also handles emergency protective order hearings.
Beyond adult court, he’s also a go-to for youth offences, including assault. He has a deep understanding of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, a modernized legislation on how young people are treated by the law.
While Matt is highly respected for his skill, we heard whispers in the past about him coming across as unprofessional or rude.
But, if you still want to get the ball rolling, he offers a free consultation—you can get an honest assessment of your case without denting your wallet.
Fantastic Winnipeg attorney!
“Matthew Gould is a fantastic Winnipeg attorney! I am so thankful to him and happy that I chose him as my lawyer to represent me in such a difficult time. He made the entire process stress-free and got me an amazing outcome.”
— Kari Lee, Google Review
Matthew is the best!
“Matthew is the best! Unlike pushy lawyers who scare you into thinking you need them for a successful defense. Matt is the opposite. Very understanding and was willing to do whatever it took to represent me.”
— Barbara Urick, Google Review
4. Mat Schwartz

Address: 155 Carlton St #1640
Phone: +1 204-815-8098
Business hours: Open 24/7 hours
Mat Schwartz is purely a criminal defence lawyer. His dedication to the craft started early, as he snagged major advocacy awards in school, such as the Archibald S. Dewar Prize and the D’Arcy McCaffrey Q.C. Memorial Award.
His award-winning skill is exactly what you need when facing domestic or violent offence cases. These he-said-she-said matters are messy and require a high level of sensitivity to navigate efficiently.
For instance, he uses the Ghomeshi regime to legally introduce private messages that prove your version of the story. He also utilizes Section 276 applications to argue certain parts of a complainant’s past.
And unlike many lawyers who check out at 5 PM, he offers emergency assistance.
Convenience aside, we did hear a few reports of unresolved cases—something to keep in mind.
Mat Schwartz is a fantastic lawyer
“Mat Schwartz is a fantastic lawyer, very professional. He worked on my case in a timely manner and explained everything in great detail. He cares about his clients and made me feel comfortable. I would highly recommend him. Thank you very much Mat.”
— Tyler Lozenski, Google Review
Achieved the BEST RESULT possible!
“Working with Mat Schwartz was an absolute pleasure. He’s is extremely knowledgeable with all aspects of my case. I found him to be a master of communication with myself as we went through the entire process, especially as this was my 1st and only criminal experience. I am very happy to be able to move forward with my life as Mat guaranteed this by achieving the BEST RESULT possible!!! Thank you Mat Schwartz!!”
— justin paddock, Google Review
5. Michael Dyck

Address: 155 Carlton St #1640
Phone: +1 204-318-6116
Business hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Michael Dyck famously dreamed of becoming a lawyer since grade 9, and he officially made that dream into reality when he was called to the bar in 2012. Now, he’s a seasoned partner at Rees Dyck Rogala Law Offices.
He exclusively accepts criminal law cases, with a special focus on domestic assault. He’s quite versed in navigating Manitoba’s “zero-tolerance” policies.
In addition to domestic files, he’s also an expert in handling simple assault allegations like a bar scuffle, or more serious charges like assault with a weapon.
One of the best lifestyle perks of hiring Michael is that he can actually attend many of your court appearances for you, so you don’t have to miss work.
You can even reach his team 24/7! Just remember that this type of availability does come at a price.
Michael Dyck greatly exceeded all expectations
“Michael Dyck greatly exceeded all expectations. Couldn’t have had a better lawyer on my side. Would recommend him to anyone who wants the best legal representation.”
— Josh Normand, Google Review
Experienced lawyer who cares about all clients
“Mr. Dyck is an experienced lawyer who also cares about all clients. He offers a free consultation and takes the time to listen to each situation. Tells you from there what is to be expected based on his knowledge of the law and provides a fair and transparent payment structure if you choose to hire him for your legal matters. I’m so happy to have come across him! Andrea.”
— Andrea, Google Review
