Criminal Law

When someone is arrested and held in custody, securing their release can become the first and most urgent priority.

ATEH LAW provides representation at bail hearings and judicial interim release proceedings, including contested & uncontested bail hearings and applications involving proposed release plans.

We can assist with reviewing the allegations and Crown’s position, developing an appropriate release plan, identifying potential sureties where required, addressing proposed conditions and presenting arguments for release consistent with the principles governing bail in Canada.

We also advise clients about their release conditions and legal obligations following release, because breaching a bail or release condition can result in additional criminal charges.

Where a loved one has been arrested, family members may contact the firm to obtain assistance in arranging legal representation.

DUI / Impaired Driving & Traffic Offences

Impaired-driving allegations can carry significant legal and practical consequences, including potential driving prohibitions, fines, a criminal record and increased insurance costs.

ATEH LAW defends clients facing allegations involving impaired operation, operation while over the legal blood-alcohol concentration, refusal or failure to comply with a lawful demand, and related driving offences.

Depending on the circumstances, a defence may require careful consideration of the traffic stop, police observations, roadside screening procedures, breath or blood testing, demands made by police, access to counsel and compliance with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

We review the evidence carefully to identify available defences and determine whether police conduct or evidence obtained during the investigation may be challenged.

Assault, Domestic Charges & Protection Orders

Assault allegations can arise from highly emotional and complicated circumstances, particularly when the parties are spouses, intimate partners or family members.

ATEH LAW represents individuals charged with assault and related offences, including allegations arising in a domestic or intimate-partner context.

We carefully examine witness statements, physical evidence, communications, photographs, recordings, police reports and other relevant evidence to determine the appropriate defence strategy.

Domestic allegations may also result in no-contact conditions, restrictions concerning the family residence and other release conditions that significantly affect a client’s daily life. We can advise clients regarding those conditions and available legal processes for seeking appropriate changes where permitted.

Where criminal proceedings intersect with protection or restraining-order proceedings, we can advise on the criminal-law implications and the need for coordinated legal strategy.

Property Crimes, Theft & Fraud Defence

Property and financial offences can range from relatively straightforward allegations to complex cases involving extensive documentary or electronic evidence.

ATEH LAW represents clients facing allegations involving theft, fraud, possession of property obtained by crime, mischief and other property-related offences.

These cases can involve important questions concerning identity, ownership, possession, knowledge, intent, authorization and the reliability of documentary or electronic evidence.

Fraud cases may require detailed analysis of financial records, contracts, communications, banking information and other documents. We approach these matters systematically, examining what the Crown must prove and whether the evidence establishes each essential element of the alleged offence beyond a reasonable doubt.

Not every criminal charge proceeds to trial, and not every case should be resolved by a guilty plea. The appropriate strategy depends on the evidence, applicable law, available defences and the client’s objectives.

ATEH LAW reviews the Crown disclosure and advises clients about their options, potential defences and the possible consequences of different courses of action.

Where a negotiated resolution is appropriate, we can engage with the Crown regarding matters such as withdrawal or reduction of charges, resolution positions, agreed facts and sentencing proposals, while ensuring that the client understands the implications of any proposed resolution.

Where the matter proceeds to trial, we provide focused criminal defence representation, including cross-examination of witnesses, evidentiary objections, legal argument, Charter applications and presentation of the defence case where appropriate.

Our role is not simply to process a charge. It is to test the prosecution’s case and require the Crown to prove the allegations according to the standard required by law.

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms provides important protections to individuals investigated or prosecuted for criminal offences.

Depending on the circumstances, issues may arise concerning unreasonable search and seizure, arbitrary detention, the right to counsel, statements made to police, unreasonable delay and the admissibility of evidence.

ATEH LAW examines the investigative process as part of its review of the case and, where supported by the evidence and law, can seek appropriate Charter remedies.

Sentencing & Criminal Record Consequences

Where a client is convicted or decides to enter a guilty plea after receiving legal advice, effective advocacy remains important at sentencing.

ATEH LAW can present relevant mitigating circumstances and advocate for a proportionate sentence permitted by law, having regard to the offence, the circumstances of the individual and applicable sentencing principles.

We also help clients understand potential collateral consequences of criminal proceedings, including effects on employment, professional licensing, immigration status and travel, where applicable.

Early legal advice can make a significant difference. Do not ignore your court date, release conditions or disclosure obligations.

ATEH LAW provides confidential criminal defence consultations and representation for individuals facing criminal allegations in Alberta.

Your liberty matters. Your reputation matters. Your defence matters.