Criminal Law Practice Areas

As criminal defence lawyers, we have successfully represented individuals facing a wide range of serious and complex criminal charges. From the earliest stages of an investigation through trial and, where necessary, appeal, we develop a clear and strategic plan tailored to the circumstances of each case. Our goal is always to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

At Roulston Urquhart, we provide experienced criminal defence representation in Calgary and throughout Alberta across numerous areas of law, including sexual offences, domestic violence, firearms charges, drug offences, fraud, impaired driving, and homicide. Each matter is approached with careful preparation, detailed review of disclosure, and a commitment to protecting your Charter rights. Where possible, we work to resolve matters efficiently. When trial is required, we provide strong, principled advocacy focused on achieving the best possible outcome.

SEXUAL ASSAULT DEFENCE

Sexual offence allegations carry serious personal and legal consequences. We provide careful, strategic defence in matters involving sexual assault, sexual interference, sexual exploitation, and related charges. These cases often turn on credibility, evidentiary rules, and Charter protections. Our approach focuses on thorough disclosure review, cross-examination, and protecting your rights at every stage.

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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENCES

Domestic allegations can arise from highly emotional and complex circumstances. We represent individuals facing charges such as assault, threats, and related offences within intimate or family relationships. Our role is to carefully assess the evidence, protect your rights, and develop a defence strategy tailored to the specific facts of your case.

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Assault & Threats

Assault and uttering threats charges can significantly affect employment, reputation, and personal relationships. We examine the evidence closely, including witness credibility and potential self-defence claims, and work to resolve matters efficiently where appropriate or vigorously defend at trial when necessary.

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Criminal Harassment

Criminal harassment allegations often involve disputed communications and intent. We analyze the context of the allegations, review digital or documentary evidence, and assess whether the legal threshold for harassment has been met. Our focus is on protecting your record and future.

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Internet Crime

Internet-related offences can involve complex digital evidence and evolving areas of law. We work with technical experts where necessary and conduct detailed review of electronic disclosure to ensure your rights are protected in investigations involving online activity.

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Child Pornography

Charges involving child pornography are among the most serious under the Criminal Code. These cases require meticulous analysis of search warrants, digital forensic procedures, and Charter compliance. We approach such matters with discretion, careful preparation, and a clear defence strategy.

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Firearms & Weapons

Weapons offences can carry mandatory minimum penalties and strict regulatory consequences. We assess issues relating to possession, authorization, search and seizure, and evidentiary sufficiency. Our goal is to protect your freedom and minimize long-term impact.

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Drug Offences

Drug charges may involve possession, trafficking, or production allegations. We carefully examine police conduct, search warrants, and the admissibility of seized evidence. Where possible, we pursue resolution strategies; where necessary, we defend vigorously at trial.

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Bail

Securing release at the earliest opportunity is often critical. We advocate strongly at bail hearings to ensure appropriate conditions and protect your liberty while your matter proceeds through the court process.

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Homicide

Homicide charges demand experienced and highly focused legal representation. These cases involve complex forensic, medical, and evidentiary issues. We prepare meticulously and provide strong advocacy in matters where the stakes are at their highest.

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DUI / Impaired Charges

Impaired driving convictions can result in licence suspensions, fines, and potential incarceration. We examine roadside procedures, breath testing compliance, and Charter issues to determine whether the evidence can be challenged or reduced.

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IRS Applications

Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) can affect your licence and driving privileges quickly. We assist clients in navigating the review and appeal process, ensuring procedural fairness and informed representation.

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Youth Charges

Youth matters require careful handling under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. We work to protect the long-term interests of young persons facing criminal allegations while safeguarding their rights throughout the court process.

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Property, Fraud & Theft

Fraud and theft allegations can impact professional and financial standing. We analyze documentary evidence, intent requirements, and investigative procedures to build a strong and strategic defence.

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Appeals

Appeals require precise legal analysis and persuasive written and oral advocacy. We assess trial records for errors of law or procedure and provide focused representation in appellate proceedings where grounds exist.

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Breach Charges

Allegations of breaching release or probation conditions can result in additional criminal consequences. We review the circumstances carefully to determine whether a breach occurred and advocate to minimize further impact.

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Individuals seeking a criminal defence lawyer in Calgary benefit from early, informed legal advice tailored to the specific allegations they face. Prompt, strategic representation can significantly affect the direction and outcome of a case.

Meet Our Lawyers

I’m Facing Criminal Charges.
What Should I Do Next?

Analysis & Strategy

When you contact our firm, a criminal defence lawyer will carefully review the allegations, disclosure materials, and the circumstances surrounding your arrest or investigation. We provide a clear legal opinion and develop a strategic plan tailored to your situation. Early analysis can identify evidentiary weaknesses, Charter issues, and opportunities to protect your rights from the outset.

Negotiation

Many cases can be resolved without proceeding to trial. We assess the strength of the Crown’s case, identify procedural or evidentiary concerns, and engage in informed discussions to pursue the most favourable resolution possible. Where appropriate, we guide clients on proactive steps that may strengthen their position and mitigate long-term consequences.

Trial Advocacy

If a resolution is not appropriate or achievable, we prepare your matter for trial with diligence and precision. This includes detailed evidence review, strategic cross-examination planning, and, where necessary, expert consultation or Charter applications. Our role is to present a rigorous and focused defence while ensuring you understand each stage of the process.