EDMONTON CRIMINAL LAWYERS

If you've been arrested or charged with a criminal offence, it's essential to remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Avoid making any statements to law enforcement until you've consulted with a criminal defence lawyer. Contact an Edmonton criminal lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case and understand your rights and legal options.

If you've been arrested by the police, you have certain rights guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. These rights include the right to remain silent, the right to legal counsel, and the right to be informed of the reasons for your arrest. It's important to assert your rights and seek legal assistance promptly.

If you're being questioned by the police, it's crucial to exercise your right to remain silent and refrain from making any statements that could incriminate you. Politely assert your right to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions. Avoid consenting to any searches without consulting with a lawyer first.

The potential consequences of a criminal conviction vary depending on the nature and severity of the offence. They may include imprisonment, fines, probation, community service, and mandatory participation in rehabilitation programs. A criminal conviction can also have long-term consequences, such as difficulty finding employment, obtaining housing, or traveling internationally.

Whether your case goes to trial or results in a plea bargain depends on various factors, including the strength of the evidence against you, the seriousness of the charges, and your individual circumstances. Your criminal defence lawyer will assess your case and discuss the available options with you, including the possibility of negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecution.

We understand that legal fees can be a concern for many individuals facing criminal charges. Our firm offers flexible fee arrangements and payment plans to accommodate our clients' financial circumstances. We believe that everyone has the right to competent legal representation, and we'll work with you to find a solution that fits your budget.

A criminal defence lawyer can provide invaluable assistance at every stage of your case. They can assess the evidence against you, advise you on your legal options, and advocate on your behalf in court. A skilled lawyer will work diligently to protect your rights, build a strong defence strategy, and strive for the best possible outcome in your case.

Our firm handles a wide range of criminal defence cases including, but not limited to, charges related to assault, theft, drug offences, impaired driving, offences involving children, sexual assault, murder, and white-collar crimes. Our Edmonton criminal lawyers are experienced in representing clients facing both summary convictions and indictable offences in various courts across Canada.

If you believe that your rights have been violated during the arrest or investigation, it's essential to document any instances of police misconduct or procedural errors. Inform your lawyer about your concerns, and they can help you file a complaint with the appropriate authorities or seek remedies through the legal system.

The duration of the legal process can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, court scheduling, and the availability of evidence and witnesses. Your lawyer will provide you with an estimate of the timeline and keep you informed about significant developments in your case. During this time, you can expect to attend court appearances, meetings with your lawyer and, potentially, negotiations with the prosecution.

Yes, you have the right to change lawyers if you're unhappy with your current representation. However, it's essential to consider the potential implications, such as delays in your case and additional legal fees. Before making a decision, discuss your concerns with your current lawyer and explore whether any issues can be addressed to improve your satisfaction with their representation.

If you're contacted by the police or the prosecution after being charged, it's crucial to consult with your lawyer before providing any information or statements. Your lawyer can advise you on how to respond and whether it's in your best interest to cooperate with the authorities. Remember to exercise your right to legal counsel and refrain from discussing your case with anyone without your lawyer present.

In certain circumstances, individuals with a criminal record may be eligible for a pardon (now known as a record suspension) or have their criminal record expunged. The eligibility criteria and process for obtaining a pardon or record suspension vary depending on the nature of the offence and the individual's rehabilitation efforts. Generally, the waiting period to apply for a record suspension is 10 years from sentence completion for an offence prosecuted by indictment and five years from sentence completion for an offence that is punishable by summary conviction. You do not need to apply for a record suspension if you have only received an absolute or conditional discharge or were only convicted in a youth court.  Consult with a criminal defence lawyer to explore your options for clearing your criminal record.