Edmonton Criminal Defence
Criminal Lawyer in Edmonton
If you are under investigation, have been arrested, or are facing criminal charges in Edmonton, you should obtain legal advice immediately. Early decisions affect bail, release conditions, disclosure strategy, and how the
Crown builds its case.
Criminal law in Alberta is procedural and evidence-driven. The first steps taken in a file often shape how the matter proceeds months later.
Protecting your legal position from the outset is critical.
Fill out the form below for a confidential review of your case.
Meet Our Lawyers
Dedicated professionals committed to justice and client advocacy.
Scott Kurie
Partner / Criminal LawyerScott Kurie is a seasoned and experienced trial lawyer who has been successful in defending people on charges ranging from driving offences to murder. With over a decade of criminal court experience, Scott has represented clients facing charges from driving offences to drug trafficking to murder before every level of court in Alberta.
Methal Fayad
associate / Criminal LAWYERMethal Fayad brings a fresh perspective and passionate advocacy to our criminal defence team. Working alongside Scott, Methal Fayad is committed to providing thorough, meticulous defence strategies tailored to each client's unique situation.
The Criminal Process In Alberta
Understanding the legal journey is the first step in your defence. We guide you through each critical stage.
A criminal case often begins with a police investigation by the Edmonton Police Service or the RCMP. This stage may occur before formal charges are laid and can significantly affect how the case develops.
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- Police interviews of witnesses
- Requests for statements
- Search warrants & seizures
- Collection of forensic evidence
- Charges may be laid by arrest, warrant, or summons, and early statements may later become central evidence in court.
After arrest, a decision is made whether you remain in custody or are released while your case proceeds. Bail determines what restrictions apply and what obligations must be followed before trial.
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- A judicial interim release hearing
- Assessment of public safety
- Evaluation of release plan
- Imposition of conditions
- The court may impose conditions such as no contact orders, curfews, or travel limits, and breaches can result in new charges.
Most matters in Edmonton begin in the Court of Justice of Alberta. The first appearance establishes scheduling, disclosure timelines, and the procedural structure of the file.
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- Formal confirmation of charges
- Request or receipt of disclosure
- Scheduling future court dates
- This stage sets the framework for how the case progresses and missing a court date can result in a warrant for arrest.
Disclosure is the evidence the Crown intends to rely on at trial. Careful review of this material is required before decisions about resolution or trial are made. Evidence is analyzed to assess strength, identify legal issues, and determine available defence strategies.
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- Police occurrence and investigation reports
- Written or recorded witness statements
- Photographs, video, or audio recordings
- Forensic laboratory or expert reports
- Body-worn camera or surveillance footage
- The evidence is analyzed to assess strength, identify legal issues, and determine available defence strategies.
After disclosure review, a case may resolve through negotiation or proceed to trial. At trial the Crown must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, and sentencing follows if there is a finding of guilt.
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- Withdrawal of charges by the Crown
- Peace bond agreements where appropriate
- Negotiated resolution discussions
- Trial before a judge or judge and jury
- Presentation and testing of evidence in court
- At trial the Crown must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, and sentencing follows if there is a finding of guilt.
Legal Representation at Every Stage
A criminal defence lawyer does more than appear in court. The role begins at the investigation stage and continues through bail, disclosure review, negotiations, trial, and sentencing. Each stage involves legal analysis, procedural management, and strategic decision-making.
Effective representation requires familiarity with Alberta criminal procedure, evidentiary standards, and Charter principles.
Every criminal case is evidence-driven. Legal review includes assessing witness reliability, identifying inconsistencies, reviewing forensic methodology, and examining disclosure completeness.
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms governs police conduct and state action. A criminal defence lawyer assesses lawful detention, search compliance, proper statements, and right to counsel.
Criminal law is procedural. We manage scheduling, file applications, conduct bail hearings, and ensure compliance with court orders.
Every case involves choices. Advice is based on strength of evidence, applicable law, collateral consequences, likelihood of conviction, and sentencing exposure.
The Criminal Process In Alberta
Experienced defence across a wide spectrum of criminal code offences in Edmonton.
Including Safe Roads Alberta appeals, refusal to blow, and impaired by drug charges.
- Operation while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Refusal to comply with a demand
- Immediate roadside sanctions
- Ignition interlock requirements
Impaired driving cases frequently involve technical issues related to roadside screening devices, breath testing procedures, and Charter compliance.
Domestic assault, assault causing bodily harm, aggravated assault, and uttering threats.
- No contact release conditions
- Removal from a shared residence
- Restrictions affecting family access
- Bail supervision requirements
- Parallel family court implications
Even where a complainant does not wish to proceed, the Crown controls the prosecution.
Sexual assault, sexual interference, and Internet- related offences. Highly sensitive defence.
- Historical allegations
- Consent analysis
- Digital communications
- Publication restrictions
Early legal advice is important due to the reputational and professional consequences that can arise even before trial.
Possession, trafficking, and production. Challenging search warrants and wiretap evidence.
- Search warrant challenges
- Confidential informant evidence
- Surveillance operations
- Vehicle searches
- Charter-based exclusion applications
The legality of police conduct can significantly affect the admissibility of evidence.
Possession of unauthorized firearms, weapons trafficking, and usage in commission of offence.
- Licensing issues
- Storage and transportation requirements
- Mandatory minimum sentencing provisions
- Reverse onus bail considerations
- Firearms prohibitions
These matters often carry significant long-term consequences.
Theft over/under $5000, fraud, mischief, and white-collar financial crimes.
- Financial documentation review
- Digital transaction analysis
- Business or employment implications
- Restitution considerations
- Negotiated resolution discussions
Each file requires detailed evidence review before strategy is determined.
Representation under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) focusing on rehabilitation.
- Separate procedural protections
- Publication bans
- Diversion programs
- Sentencing principles specific to youth
- Rehabilitation-focused outcomes
Youth cases require careful handling to minimize long-term impact.
Consequences of Being Charged with a Crime in Alberta
A criminal conviction can have life-altering consequences beyond the courtroom. It is
crucial to understand what is at stake.
Employment & Professional Licensing
Can affect employment status, professional regulatory licenses, security clearances, eligibility for government contracting and workplace disciplinary proceedings.
Certain professions require mandatory reporting of charges. Release conditions may also prevent attendance at a workplace or contact with colleagues.
Firearms & Property
Certain charges may trigger immediate firearms prohibitions, seizures of registered weapons, long-term ownership restrictions, revocation of Possession ansd Acquisition Licences, and Court-ordered forfeiture.
These consequences may arise before a case is fully resolved.
Long-Term Record Implications
A conviction may result in a permanent criminal record, impact on background checks, difficulty securing employment, limitations on volunteer opportunities, and future sentencing implications.
Strategic decisions made early in a case can influence whether these long-term consequences arise.
Immigration & Travel
Criminal matters can affect travel and immigration status.Potential consequences include potential inadmissibility to the US, impact on permanent residence applications, citizenship complications, travel restrictions due to release conditions and border questioning based on pending charges.
Even charges that do not result in conviction may create travel complications.
Family & Reputation
Criminal allegations can affect parenting arrangements, access to children, family court proceedings, public reputation, and community standing
Domestic-related charges often carry immediate no contact conditions that affect living arrangements and family dynamics.
Immediate Administrative and Roadside Sanctions
Certain allegations, particularly those involving impaired driving, trigger the SafeRoads Alberta program. This can result in immediate roadside sanctions, vehicle seizures, and ignition interlock requirements that take effect long before your first appearance in the Edmonton Court of Justice. These are administrative penalties that exist independently of the criminal court process.
Why Kurie Moore?
Criminal defence requires careful analysis, procedural discipline, and informed judgment. Legal strategy must be grounded in evidence, statutory interpretation, and court practice.
Kurie Moore LLP represents individuals at every stage of the criminal justice process in Edmonton. Each file is approached through structured review rather than assumption.
Our work includes detailed analysis of disclosure and evidentiary strength, review of police conduct and Charter compliance, preparation for bail hearings and release planning, strategic resolution discussions where appropriate and trial preparation and courtroom advocacy.
Decisions are made based on law, evidence, and realistic assessment of risk.
Court procedure varies by jurisdiction. Familiarity with Edmonton scheduling practices, courtroom expectations, and prosecutorial approaches supports efficient case management.
Regular court appearances allow us to anticipate procedural requirements, prepare appropriately for bail and trial, address evidentiary issues efficiently, manage timelines realistically, and navigate resolution processes effectively.
Effective representation combines legal knowledge with procedural familiarity.
Certain charges may trigger immediate firearms prohibitions, seizures of registered weapons, long-term ownership restrictions, revocation of Possession and Acquisition Licenses, and Court-ordered forfeiture.
These consequences may arise before a case is fully resolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I contact a criminal defence lawyer?
You should contact a criminal defence lawyer as soon as police contact you, you are arrested, or you believe charges may be laid. Early legal advice helps protect your rights and reduces the risk of making statements that may later be used as evidence.
Do I need a lawyer if I have not been charged yet?
Legal advice is often appropriate if you are under investigation or police have requested an interview. A lawyer can explain your legal position before you provide a statement or respond to police inquiries.
Should I speak to police to explain my side?
You are not required to provide a statement to police. Anything you say may be used as evidence. Speaking with a lawyer before answering questions allows you to understand the potential consequences.
What happens after I am charged in Edmonton?
After charges are laid, you may be released with conditions or required to attend a bail hearing. A court date will be scheduled in the Edmonton Court of Justice, and the Crown will provide disclosure. The matter then proceeds through procedural stages toward resolution or trial.
What are release conditions?
Release conditions are court-ordered restrictions that apply while your case is ongoing. They may include no contact orders, curfews, reporting requirements, or travel restrictions. Breaching a condition can result in additional criminal charges.
What is disclosure in a criminal case?
Disclosure is the evidence the Crown intends to rely on in court. It typically includes police reports, witness statements, recordings, and forensic results. Disclosure must be reviewed before decisions about resolution or trial are made.
How long does a criminal case take?
The timeline depends on the nature of the charge, the complexity of the evidence, and court scheduling availability. Some cases resolve within months. Others take longer if a trial is required.
How much does a criminal defence lawyer in Edmonton cost?
Legal fees depend on the type of charge, the complexity of the case, and whether the matter resolves early or proceeds to trial. After reviewing your situation, a lawyer can explain the expected fee structure.
Can a lawyer help if I plan to plead guilty?
Yes. Legal representation is important even if you intend to plead guilty. A lawyer can advise on sentencing exposure, collateral consequences, and whether alternative resolutions may be available.
Will a criminal charge affect my job or ability to travel?
It may. Criminal charges and convictions can affect employment, professional licensing, immigration status, and international travel. These risks should be considered when evaluating legal strategy.
Serving Alberta Communities
Kurie Moore LLP represents individuals in the Edmonton Court of Justice and the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta. Criminal matters in Edmonton are governed by specific scheduling practices, procedural expectations, and prosecutorial approaches that differ from other regions.
Although based in Sherwood Park, we also represent clients from communities throughout Alberta who require defence counsel familiar with Edmonton procedure or who have matters transferred to Edmonton courts.
Primary Service Areas
- Athabasca
- Beaumont
- Camrose
- Chestermere
- Drayton Valley
- Fort McMurray
- Hinton
- Leduc
- Medicine Hat
- Peace River
- Slave Lake
- St. Albert
- Wetaskiwin
- Airdrie
- Brooks
- Calgary
- Cold Lake
- Drumheller
- Jasper
- High River
- Lethbridge
- Morinville
- Red Deer
- Spruce Grove
- St. Paul
- Whitecourt
- Barrhead
- Bonnyville
- Canmore
- Cochrane
- Edson
- Grande Prairie
- Fort Saskatchewan
- Lloydminster
- Olds
- Sherwood Park
- Strathmore
- Vegreville
Obtain Legal Advice Before The Case Progresses
Criminal matters can escalate quickly once police become involved. Statements given early, missed court dates, or breaches of release conditions can significantly affect the outcome of a case. Legal advice at the earliest stage allows you to: Understand your rights and obligations avoid unnecessary legal risk, address bail and release conditions properly, review disclosure before decisions are made, develop a structured legal strategy.
If you are facing criminal charges in Edmonton or believe charges may be forthcoming, the next step is to obtain confidential
legal advice from a criminal defence lawyer.
Please complete this form, and we will contact you to arrange a meeting with a lawyer
Contact Us
780-809-3545
reception@kurielaw.ca
168 Kaska Road, Sherwood Park, AB T8A 4G7
“We are here to help you navigate through this difficult time.”
Consultations are confidential and protected by solicitor-client privilege.