During a traffic stop, fear of getting a ticket or arrest can make people nervous or anxious. Under these circumstances, people might say things they later regret. You can avoid this by refraining from making certain comments to the police. "Sure, you can search my...
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Edmonton Alberta Criminal Law Blog
Report finds police breaches of Charter of Rights and Freedoms a systemic problem
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms is the most fundamental set of laws we have in this country. In the context of police interactions, it gives us – as civilians – certain rights. For example: The freedom from unreasonable search or seizure The right to be told...
What an impaired driving conviction means for Canadian immigrants
Facing criminal charges is always stressful. But as an immigrant in Canada, the consequences can be especially severe. And, due to a recent change in the law, Canadian immigrants have more to worry about than ever. Canada has long enforced stiff penalties for...
Can the police lie to you during an interrogation?
Police officers are expected to uphold and enforce the law. However, it may come as a surprise to you that they are not always required to act honestly. In today’s post, we discuss the dishonest – but legal – ways that the police may behave, and what you can do about...
What you need to know if your child has been arrested
If your child is arrested, it can be a very stressful time for you both. You may have questions about how your child will be treated, what rights you will have in the process and what you can expect from the criminal justice system. In Canada, any child who is at...
3 common misconceptions in gauging your BAC
Drunk driving-related accidents are on the rise across Canada. One issue in determining whether you’re capable of driving after a few drinks is understanding your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). In Alberta, if your BAC is 0.8 or above, you are considered drunk in...
The collateral consequences of being charged with impaired driving as a parent
Facing an impaired driving charge is stressful under any circumstance. But if you’re a parent, there is a lot more at stake. Your conviction could be used as evidence that you are an unfit parent. In certain cases, it could even mean an increased sentence. Here are...
What can influence a jury’s perception of a forced confession?
A jury is meant to remain impartial and objectively evaluate the evidence presented in a case in accordance with the law. When a defendant confesses to a crime, this can be extremely persuasive – and often damning – evidence in a case, which often leads to a...
Eyewitness testimony: not as reliable as you might think
An eyewitness may seem like an invaluable resource for a prosecutor to prove their case. Eyewitness testimony has long been viewed as highly reliable evidence. However, advancements in forensic DNA testing in recent years have shed light on how frequently eyewitnesses...
Social media ads may encourage teen drinking
It is a well-known fact that advertisements affect human behaviour. This is why there are limits on advertising alcoholic beverages in print and on television. It is also why cigarette advertisements no longer appear in mainstream television or print content. However,...