A defence attorney (spelled with a 'c' in Canadian English) is a lawyer who represents individuals or organizations accused of crimes or facing civil lawsuits. In criminal cases, defence counsel protects the accused's rights, challenges the prosecution's evidence, presents alternative explanations, and ensures fair trial procedures are followed. The Canadian legal system guarantees the right to counsel, and those who cannot afford a lawyer may access legal aid services. Defence attorneys don't need to believe their client is innocent—their role is to ensure the prosecution proves its case properly and that constitutional rights are protected. In civil matters, defence lawyers represent parties being sued. The adversarial system, with prosecution and defence presenting competing arguments, is fundamental to Canadian justice.