Education
B.A. University of Saskatchewan 1989
LL.B. Queens University 1992
Bar
Alberta 1993Professional Memberships
Criminal Trial Lawyers Association of Alberta
Canadian Counsel of Criminal Defence Lawyers
Brian Hurley – Defence Lawyer for Serious Criminal Charges in Edmonton
Focused on Homicide, Major Drug Offences, Sexual Assault, Driving Offences, and Assaults, including Domestic Violence
Brian Hurley is a partner at Liberty Law, where his practice is dedicated to defending individuals facing the most severe allegations within the Canadian criminal justice system. He is known for his strategic approach to case analysis, his vigorous courtroom advocacy, and his dedication to achieving the best possible results for his clients.
Mr. Hurley focuses his practice on the most serious criminal allegations, including:
- Homicide Offences: Murder, Manslaughter, and Firearms-Related Homicides
- Major Drug Offences: Trafficking, Possession for the Purpose, and Importation
- Sexual Assault: Defending against complex and sensitive allegations
- Driving Offences: From provincial DUI matters to serious criminal driving cases involving fatalities
- Assaults and Domestic Violence: Robust defence for allegations ranging from common assault to aggravated and domestic violence charges
- Criminal Appeals: Overturning wrongful convictions and challenging unjust sentences at the Alberta Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada.
Why Retain Brian Hurley for Your Defence?
Strategic and Meticulous Case Analysis
Brian Hurley is recognized for his ability to deconstruct complex cases. He conducts a thorough analysis of the Crown’s evidence, identifying critical weaknesses, procedural errors, and potential Charter of Rights violations that can form the basis for a stay of proceedings or an acquittal.
A Persuasive and Vigorous Courtroom Advocate
Having defended clients at all levels of court, including the Alberta Court of Appeal, Mr. Hurley is a compelling and respected litigator. His advocacy is focused on presenting clear, persuasive arguments to judges and juries to protect his clients' freedoms.
Extensive Experience in Serious Driving, Assault, and Domestic Violence Cases
In addition to homicide, drug, and sexual assault matters, Mr. Hurley routinely defends clients in complex driving cases and serious assault allegations, bringing the same high level of preparation and courtroom skill to these proceedings.
Dedicated to High-Stakes, Complex Defence
Mr. Hurley is routinely retained in cases involving severe penalties, complex forensic evidence, and voluminous disclosure. He is adept at managing the immense pressure and intricate details that these cases demand, ensuring no stone is left unturned.
A Summary of Brian Hurley's Experience and Recognition
For over three decades, Brian Hurley has practiced exclusively in criminal defence, becoming one of Alberta’s most sought-after lawyers for complex cases. His extensive courtroom experience includes appearances at all trial and appeal levels in Alberta and across Western Canada and the Territories.
His practice is defined by its depth and breadth, having handled everything from murder and major drug trafficking cases to complex sexual assault allegations and serious driving offences, assaults, and domestic violence charges. He possesses expertise in psychiatric defences, having successfully secured numerous verdicts of Not Criminally Responsible (NCR) in cases of murder and other serious offences.
Mr. Hurley is a deeply committed member of the legal community. He serves as Alberta’s Executive Member for the Canadian Council of Criminal Defence Lawyers (CCCDL), is a past president of the Edmonton Criminal Trial Lawyers’ Association (CTLA) and has been invited to provide expert testimony on criminal law reform to the Standing Senate Committee in Ottawa. His thought leadership extends to teaching, having lectured on criminal law at the University of Alberta and for legal societies.
Despite this recognition, Brian Hurley remains dedicated to accessible justice. He offers a free initial consultation to personally discuss your case and provide a clear path forward.
Liberty Law
FAQs: Defence Against Serious Criminal Charges
Yes. In addition to his focus on the most serious criminal indictments, Mr. Hurley also defends clients facing impaired driving charges. He applies the same rigorous and strategic approach to DUI cases, challenging the technical evidence surrounding breathalyzer procedures, blood sample analysis, and the legality of the traffic stop. For a detailed overview of the laws he defends against, please read our article, Alberta's New Impaired Driving Laws.
There is no single "most effective" strategy; it depends entirely on the evidence. Mr. Hurley's approach involves a meticulous review of the case to identify the best path to victory. Common defence strategies include challenging the legality of the search and seizure (arguing for evidence to be excluded under the Charter of Rights), questioning whether the client had knowledge and control of the drugs, and testing the integrity and continuity of the evidence. His extensive experience in major drug cases allows him to identify weaknesses others might miss.
A PPTR charge is more serious than simple possession. The Crown alleges you possessed drugs not for personal use, but to sell or distribute them. The penalties upon conviction are severe and often include lengthy prison sentences. This charge is usually laid based on the quantity of drugs, the presence of packaging materials, scales, or large sums of cash. Defending against it requires an aggressive strategy to challenge the Crown's theory, often through Charter applications and expert evidence.
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.
Contact Brian Hurley for a Free Case Strategy Session
Phone: (780) 784-7500 Toll Free: 1-833-784-7500 hurley@libertylaw.ca
300 Maclean Block 10110 - 107 Street Edmonton, AB
