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...
CALL 1-800-419-7753
LOCAL 780-424-8600
Edmonton Alberta Criminal Law Blog
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,...
Don’t make these 3 mistakes if police pull you over
Any interaction with police officers can make people feel uncomfortable, even if they haven’t done anything wrong. Under these circumstances, it can be easy to forget that you have rights and legal protections. For instance, if police stop you while driving in...
What happens if I refuse a breath test in Alberta?
Having a DUI on one's record can affect a person's life in numerous ways. Besides criminal consequences, there is often a great deal of stigma associated with a drunk driving conviction. That is why it is so important for those accused of impaired driving-related...