Calgary Criminal Defence Lawyers
If you have been charged with a criminal offence in Calgary, you need legal advice. Our team of Calgary criminal lawyers has defended thousands of criminal cases at all levels of court in Alberta.
CALGARY CRIMINAL DEFENCE LAWYERS
Effective Representation.
Experienced Advice.
Experienced Advice.
Trust the Top Google Reviewed Criminal Defence Law Firm in Calgary.
Calgary Criminal Lawyers
A Team of Experienced Criminal Defence Lawyers Serving Calgary & Area
Being Charged with a Criminal Offence
Being accused of a crime may be the most stressful event you will ever experience in your lifetime. If you are reading this, it is likely that you or a loved one have been arrested and charged by the police. Your reputation has been tarnished, your liberties have been restricted, and now you have to defend yourself in court. You’ve been through a lot, but unfortunately, this is just the beginning.
Next, the government will use all of the resources at its disposal to prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law. With unlimited money, power, and resources at its disposal, they have the means to see this through.
We understand that being merely accused of a crime can be extremely stigmatizing. But being found guilty can lead to its own host of significant ramifications. Even if you are not sentenced to a jail term, a criminal conviction can have profound consequences on your future, such as:
- Loss of employment,
- Loss of family and friends,
- Loss of immigration status,
- Loss of opportunity, and
- Loss of personal self-worth.
As hard as it may seem, remember that you are presumed innocent throughout this process and that you are doing the right thing by exploring your legal options.
Having a Lawyer on Your Side
Navigating the criminal justice system is overwhelming. Up against the government’s unlimited resources, mounting a successful defence can feel like an insurmountable task.
This is where we can help. Our job is to level the playing field, or better yet, turn the odds in your favour. As the saying goes, “knowledge is power”. One of the first things we will do is help you understand your rights and the defences available to you. You have a right to know every detail of the allegations against you, and we will work with you to uncover and scrutinize every aspect of your case.
Choosing the Right Legal Team
What really sets us apart is our team approach. Collectively, we have successfully defended thousands of cases across multiple provinces and at all levels of court. With offices in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, our criminal defence lawyers regularly attend court all across Canada. When you hire one of our lawyers, you get our whole legal team and the collective wisdom and experience that comes with it.
Unlike sole practitioners, with us you effectively get multiple lawyers for the price of one. Someone is always around to have a second look or offer a second opinion. Especially in an emergency, there is always someone available to help.
Our team of criminal defence lawyers is constantly researching and writing about the latest and best legal defence strategies. We also have a unique opportunity to interact with Criminal Court Judges and Crown Prosecutors across jurisdictions on a daily basis, thereby remaining current on the latest practices and procedures employed by the justice system.
Client-Centered Approach
Defending your rights is not just about knowing the law. We believe that understanding your story is of utmost importance as well. Every case is different, and every client has individualized needs. We will always take the time to meet with you to learn about your personal circumstances and priorities, so that we can represent you better.
Our lawyers are passionate about criminal law and are fully invested in those we represent. No matter the situation, we never lose sight of our clients’ interests. Furthermore, with open lines of communication, you can count on us to keep you informed every step of the way.
Flexible Fee Structures
Given the current economic climate, we understand that times are tough for Canadians. As such, the first consultation is free of charge. Beyond that, we offer flexible fee structures and aim to accommodate every budget.
Having a diverse legal team also allows us to offer a broad range of fees without compromising your defence. We always have the ability to pair the right lawyer to every client, and every budget. The best part is that no matter who you hire, you will receive the full benefit of our collective wisdom and experience.
Contact us for a Free Consultation
If you’re not quite ready to hire a lawyer, that’s ok. Take the time you need and do your research. To that end, we encourage you to explore this website to gain a better understanding of:
- The charges you are facing,
- The consequences that can follow, and
- The ways you can defend the charges.
However, if your research stops here, our parting advice is this: Don’t deal with your charges alone. Obtaining at least minimal legal advice is crucial to help you avoid the worst consequences of a conviction.
We’re here to help you. When you’re ready, contact our team of Criminal Defence Lawyers servicing Calgary, every court center across Alberta, and beyond. Let us earn your business and prove that we are the right legal team for you.
Our Practice Areas
Glowing Reviews From Our Clients
Excellent service! I would highly recommend going with this team. If I ever need assistance with anything of this manner again, I wouldn’t hesitate to call or email the team at Oykhman Criminal Defence again.
M.M.
Everyone was very professional and understanding. They explained everything and put me at ease. Any question I had were answered right. If you need help I’d highly recommend this law firm.
B.L.
These guys are the best. They fought for my impaired driving charge, even when I thought they crown had me dead to rights they got me off! Amazing to deal with. Fair pricing for the outcome. I can’t say enough about how they helped change my life for the better! Do not hesitate to use them!
J.M.
Michael Oykhman was my defender when I was falsely accused of a crime. It was an incredibly stressful time for me and my family. But he was able to set the record straight and get everything cleared up during the investigation stage; preventing any charges for even being laid against me and clearing my name. Michael is absolutely the very best, and he and his team genuinely care. They are good people that you can trust.
B.B.
If you are facing a serious criminal charge, your best decision will be to hire Ryan Patmore! I was faced with a very serious sexual assault charge and didn’t know where to turn. When I looked for a defence Lawyer I found Ryan Patmore at Oykhman Criminal Defence Law. From the first time we had a meeting; Ryan put me at ease, and then took care of absolutely everything… When the trail finally happened, Ryan did everything in his power to prove my innocents to the charges against me, and turn my four day trial into one and a half days, in my favour. Once I seen Ryan in the courtroom, he surpassed all my expectations and for that I want to sincerely thank him and highly recommend him to anyone faced with a life altering charge and needs an experienced lawyer to fight for them.
T.T.
Getting a lawyer was the best thing that I could have done. Elaine was the most helpful in every way . She was always there if I had any questions or concerns. She won the case . It was taken care of very quickly. She took care of everything for me and I’m very thankful to have hired her. Our last meeting was very convenient for me as well. She was out of the office that day as she was not feeling good. But yet we had our meeting over the phone which is more than I could ask for. I would definitely recommend Elaine to anyone that needs a defence lawyer.. very understanding of my concerns and easy to talk to. Thanks you so much.
T.C.
I am going through an extremely difficult divorce and my ex made a power move by making an allegation against me that involved the police and the start of a three month investigation. Upon the advice of a former RCMP member who is a good friend I engaged the Services of Michael to help with the investigation phase and contact by the city police. His services in dealing with the investigation and guiding me through this is beyond value. I would highly recommend his team. I am pleased to report that with his guidance the matter was dropped before charges, money well invested. If you get contacted by police your first call should be to his office.
C.
I was charged with a DUI and through Google search I found Oykhman Criminal Defence Law. In no time at all I had a consultation with Michael. I was feeling utterly defeated and had little hope for a positive outcome. He explained the legal aspects of the situation and presented all my options. Two days before my court date, he called to let me know the charges had been dropped. I don’t know how he did it but I am very thankful that I had Michael as my defence lawyer
O.C.
Disclaimer: All results of cases handled by the lawyer/firm are not provided. The results provided are not necessarily representative of results obtained by the lawyer/firm or of the experience of all clients or others with the lawyer/firm. Every case is different, and each client’s case must be evaluated and handled on its own merits.
If you’re in trouble, we can help.
We approach each problem with three essential elements: strategic thinking, creative solutions, proven results.
Our process is designed to get you the best outcome for your case.
A Small Sample of our Successful Cases
Pre-Charge Legal Advice, Sexual Assault Allegations, Charges Not Laid
Our client received a call from the police regarding sexual assault allegations against him. The allegations pertained to the sexual activity that happened approximately two years prior to the day of the call. Our client was shocked and apprehensive about the possibility of the charges being laid.
Upon being retained, we conducted a comprehensive review of the situation with our client, explaining all the rights and option available to him. Most notably we made sure our client knew that any communication with the police can be used against him. After a thorough review of the situation, we determined that it was in our client’s best interest that we share his version of events with the investigating officer. The critical details we provided about the sexual encounter led the investigating officer to determine that no charges were warranted, and to conclude the investigation.
Successful Result: Investigation Concluded, No Charges Laid
Acquitted at Trial of Sexual Assault Charge
Our client and his ex-girlfriend both slept at a friend’s house after a house party. A few days later, his ex-girlfriend reported to the police that she had woken up during the night to our client engaging in sexual activity with her without her consent. Our client was charged with sexual assault and maintained that the activity in question had never occurred.
We reviewed the Crown’s case against our client and identified notable discrepancies between the complainant’s version of events and the other witnesses’ statements. Our client plead not guilty and we proceeded to a three-day trial. The Crown called three witnesses to testify, while our client testified as the sole defence witness. At the conclusion of the trial, we successfully argued that there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that our client was the person who had committed the acts reported by his ex-girlfriend. The trial judge found our client not guilty and acquitted him.
Successful Result: Acquitted at Trial
Sexual Assault and Domestic Assault Charges Result in Common Law Peace Bond
Our client was charged with sexual assault and domestic assault in relation to his common law girlfriend. Their arguments had been escalating and she called the police. She stated during a police interview that our client had assaulted her and sexually assaulted her over the course of their relationship. Our client maintained that while they argued a lot, he never assaulted her in any way.
Our client instructed us to set this matter for trial so he could prove his innocence in court. We encouraged our client to work on his sobriety, as his alcohol use had been an issue in his relationship. The complainant eventually told the police that her words had been exaggerated and taken out of context, and that she did not want to see our client prosecuted. We used this weakness in the Crown’s case in our negotiation discussions with the Crown. Ultimately, we persuaded the Crown to resolve our client’s charges with a Common Law Peace Bond.
Successful Result: Common Law Peace Bond, Charges Withdrawn, No Criminal Record
Resisting Arrest and Mischief to Property Charges Withdrawn
Our client was charged with resisting arrest and committing mischief to property after he was detained by the police on the street for public intoxication. Our client suffered significant injuries during his detention, was not provided with an opportunity to speak to a lawyer, and was held in cells until the following afternoon.
Upon being retained, we reviewed the disclosure and immediately began making every effort to obtain a copy of the CCTV footage capturing our client’s arrest and detention. We also began collecting evidence of our client’s injuries. We set the matter for trial. We filed a Charter Notice in which we advised the Crown we would be arguing that our client’s Charter rights were violated by the failure to disclose the cellblock footage, by the police’s excessive use of force, by the police not giving him the opportunity to contact a lawyer, and by the police detaining our client for significantly longer than necessary or justified in the circumstances. As a result, the Crown withdrew the charges on the day of trial.
Successful Result: Charges Withdrawn, No Criminal Record
Possession for the Purposes of Trafficking and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Charges Withdrawn
Our client was charged as a result of an undercover operation that targeted him as a potential drug dealer. After being under police surveillance for some time, he was arrested when an undercover police officer called him and asked him to purchase cocaine. When he went to the meeting place to complete the exchange he was arrested for possession for the purposes of trafficking. Upon searching him following his arrest, the police also found a large amount of cash and charged him with possession for the purposes of trafficking. Our client never followed up with his charges, and left the province after he was released. Several years later he found that there were outstanding warrants for his arrest on this matter, and he contacted us to defend him with respect to these charges.
We ordered and did a thorough review of his disclosure, and found a number of significant weaknesses in the case against our client. We discussed these weaknesses with the Crown prosecutor prior to trial, and the Crown withdrew all charges as he realized that there was no likelihood of succeeding at trial.
Successful Result: Charges Withdrawn, No Criminal Record
Theft Over $5,000 and Trafficking Stolen Property Charges Withdrawn
Our client worked at a construction company that stripped metals from old buildings. Over the course of several months, copper wiring started to disappear without explanation and our client’s employer accused him of stealing it and selling it himself. Following a police investigation, our client was arrested and charged with theft and trafficking of nearly $70,000 worth of copper wiring. He was also fired from his job and sewed in civil court by his former employer. If convicted, he faced a lengthy prison sentence due to his position of trust, and a likely condition requiring him to repay all $70,000.
Upon being retained, we worked together with our client’s civil lawyers to fight the allegations on both fronts. We did significant analysis of the case against our client and pointed out to the Crown Prosecutor that much of the evidence was circumstantial and our client had credible explanations to address the accusations against him. We began resolution discussions with the Crown and as a result, all charges were withdrawn.
Successful Result: Charges Withdrawn; No Criminal Record
Breaking and Entering, Robbery, Possession of a Break in Instrument, and Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose Charges Withdrawn
Our client was arrested and charged after he was allegedly found inside the complainant’s house with a wrench, and holding some of her property. It is alleged that our client came home with her children and found our client, who was unknown to her, coming down her stairs. She pressed the button on her home security system, and the police attended the scene shortly thereafter. The complainant described our client to the police, and video footage from a neighboring property caught images of him entering and leaving the complainant’s home.
Upon being retained we immediately ordered and reviewed disclosure. Prior to trial, we began negotiation discussions with the Crown and were able to point out detrimental weaknesses in their ability to prove the identity of the offender. In response, the Crown withdrew all charges against our client prior to trial, and our client received no criminal record.
Successful Result: Charges Withdrawn, No Criminal Record
Impaired Driving, Over 80, and Dangerous Driving Charges Withdrawn
An anonymous civilian called the police to report that our client’s vehicle was being driven erratically. The police located him and noticed that he was unable to maintain the lane and that he was speeding. They pulled our client over and requested that he provide a roadside breath sample, which he failed. Our client was taken to the detachment and he was ultimately charged with impaired driving, driving while over the legal limit, and dangerous driving.
We immediately requested and conducted a thorough review of our client’s disclosure. We set his matter for trial. We identified serious violations of our client’s Charter right to counsel and convinced the Crown that they would not be able to secure a conviction. The Crown withdrew our client’s charges on the morning of trial.
Successful Result: Charges Withdrawn, No Criminal Record
Immediate Roadside Sanction Cancelled
Our client was served with a Notice of Administrative Penalty (NAP) because the officer claimed that our client refused to provide a breath sample at the roadside. The officer said our client made nine attempts, but would not blow hard enough or form a proper seal, despite being coached the entire time on how to do it. Our client said he tried his best, and that his failure to do so was not on purpose.
After reviewing our arguments and materials, the adjudicator determined that our client had established the grounds to cancel his NAP. As this was the sole basis for the issuance of the NAP, it was cancelled and our client’s licence was immediately reinstated.
Successful Result: Notice of Administrative Penalty Cancelled
Disclaimer: All results of cases handled by the lawyer/firm are not provided. The results provided are not necessarily representative of results obtained by the lawyer/firm or of the experience of all clients or others with the lawyer/firm. Every case is different, and each client’s case must be evaluated and handled on its own merits.
All our 30-60 minute free consultations are conducted with one of our Criminal Defence Lawyers and include the following steps:
- Gathering of some personal information about you, such as your level of education, occupation, and citizenship status. This information can be crucial for building your defence and seeking a resolution with the Crown Prosecutor;
- Careful review of all documents you received from the police. We will explain what each document is, and what you can expect from and need to do for all upcoming appearances;
- Critical review of your recollection of events, and any supporting materials you choose to bring with you. This step helps us identify possible defences and avenues for further investigation; and
- Discussion of the court process, our fee structure, and what we can do to help.
Beyond these steps, we would be happy to tell you more about us, and answer any questions you may have. If you chose to retain us to help you, we will immediately provide an overview of what steps we plan to take next, and suggestions as to what you should do to improve your chances of a successful outcome.
For the free initial consultation to be as productive as possible, you should bring (or email in advance) the following materials:
- A written statement (preferably typed) outlining your version of events;
- All documents that you have been given by the court or by the police;
- Any disclosure you have received;
- Photo ID; and
- Any supporting documents, such as photographs, emails, texts, phone records, medical records, receipts, etc.
Ideally, you will have prepared a copy of these materials for us to keep, but if not, we can always photocopy them during the consultation.
We offer flexible payment options and structures designed to meet our clients’ individual needs. Our lawyers accept all major credit cards, bank drafts, money orders, email money transfers (e-transfers) and, of course, cash.
If you decide to retain us after the free initial consultation, all we need is a retainer (down payment) to get started. The rest of the fee payments for the case can be spaced out over time. We can set you up on a monthly or bi-monthly payment plan, and process payments over the telephone or by email to make it easy for you.
The cost of a criminal defence lawyer will depend on several factors, including:
- how complex your case is,
- how serious the charges are, and
- how experienced the Criminal Defence lawyer is.
The fees of a competent Criminal Defence Lawyer will typically range into the thousands of dollars. The good news is that only a fraction of that amount is due initially. We offer flexible payment schedules so thefees can be paid in monthly installments.
Additionally, we offer flat rate fees, with no hidden costs. It is our standard practice to review all the costs during the free initial consultation. This means you will know exactly what our services cost at the outset and can make an informed decision about how to proceed.
