E. O'Neill
Meet Our Criminal Defence Team
— SERIOUS, EXPERIENCED EDMONTON CRIMINAL LAWYERS
If You Have a Criminal Law Issue, Contact Us Immediately
Our highly skilled and committed Edmonton criminal lawyers are dedicated to zealously defending anyone coming into conflict with the Criminal Justice System and doing so with integrity. Our lawyers handle cases throughout Alberta and know the legal landscape. We have found that there is no replacement for experience and thorough preparation. If you are suspected of having committed a criminal offence or have been charged with a criminal offence, contact one of our lawyers immediately. Knowing and exercising your legal rights and designing an effective and winning strategy at the outset is crucial. We also believe in being proactive in serious cases, often retaining private investigators and experts to conduct our own investigations. In many cases, diversion programs, peace bonds, or other alternatives to conviction may be available — our lawyers will explore every option to protect your future. When innocence is at stake, nothing should be left to chance.
“Brian Hurley is an excellent lawyer! I had hired Mr Hurley for an assault case where I was falsely accused. He did an excellent job of defending and representing me and all charges were dropped. Mr Hurley is a very experienced veteran in the criminal defence system and I would strongly recommend him for anyone falsely accused of a crime.”
Ram Virk
"The staff at Liberty Law LLP are all very professional and easy to deal with. I had the pleasure of Ms. Hardstaff represent me and she is an amazing Lawyer all around. She is very knowledgeable of the law and fights very hard for her clients, easy to talk with, explains every detail along the way and really does a fantastic job."
Brian Matthews
"Shawn Gretsel is the best lawyer i could’ve asked for he helped me through every step of everything and was very professional. He was always level with me which made me feel better and assured me he was doing everything he could for me. He made things work even when things didn’t look like they would and that’s why i’d recommend him."
Geno
Why Choose Liberty Law
What Sets Us Apart
100% Criminal Defence
We do not practice any other area of law. Every lawyer, every resource, every hour is focused on criminal defence.
All Levels of Alberta Courts
Alberta Court of Justice, Court of King's Bench, and the Court of Appeal. Our lawyers are in the Alberta Court of Justice every day and appear regularly at every level.
Same-Day Response
You will speak directly with a defence lawyer — not a receptionist or intake coordinator.
Transparent Fees
Flat fees available for some matters. Costs are explained clearly before you decide how to proceed.
The Depth of a Firm
150+ years of combined experience. Our lawyers meet weekly to share research and strategy on every active case.
— Practice Areas
Liberty Law Practice Areas
Liberty Law has conducted many high-profile and complex cases in Alberta. We have the resources and are equipped to handle any type of criminal, drug, or regulatory offence including offences under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. One of our lawyers restricts his practice to the defence of sexual assault charges. He has conducted over 100 sexual assault jury trials.
Don’t Face Your Charges Alone!
What type of criminal defence lawyer are you looking for?
What to Expect
What Happens When You Call
Many people hesitate to call because they don't know what to expect. Here is exactly what happens when you reach out to Liberty Law.
You Call or Submit a Form
We respond the same day — including evenings, weekends, and holidays. No waiting until Monday morning.
Speak Directly with a Lawyer
Not a receptionist. Not an intake coordinator. You will speak directly with a criminal defence lawyer about your situation.
Get a Clear Plan
We explain your situation, your legal options, and our fees — clearly and upfront. Free initial consultation, no obligation.
Our Approach
Personalized Legal Care with the Strength of a Team:
Liberty Law’s Approach to Criminal Defence
At Liberty Law, we combine an individualized and a collective approach to serving our clients. Every criminal defence lawyer has their own clients and personally attends to their cases. Our firm, however, meets weekly to discuss recent case law, legal issues, and our current cases. We share our legal research with each other. We have an extensive library encompassing legal texts, case law, and legal briefs. Our library is regularly augmented with our most recent legal research. Our clients get the benefit of the collective experience of our Edmonton criminal lawyers. That has proven to be invaluable.
Watch: Meet the Liberty Law Defence Team
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All Our Google Reviews
With nearly 400 reviews on Google across our Edmonton and Grande Prairie offices, we take pride in providing personalized and attentive legal services to our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
What should I do if I've been arrested or charged with a criminal offence?
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.
What are my rights if I've been arrested by the police?
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.
What should I do if I'm being questioned by the police?
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.
What are the potential consequences of a criminal conviction?
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.
Will my case go to trial, or is there a possibility of a plea bargain?
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.
Can I afford an Edmonton criminal lawyer?
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.
How can an Edmonton criminal defence lawyer help me with my case?
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.
What types of cases do your Edmonton criminal lawyers handle?
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.
What should I do if I believe my rights have been violated during the arrest or investigation?
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.
How long will the legal process take, and what should I expect during that time?
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.
Can I change Edmonton criminal lawyers if I'm unhappy with my current representation?
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.
What should I do if I'm contacted by the police or the prosecution after being charged?
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.
Can I receive a pardon or have my criminal record expunged?
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.
