Deborah McCabeAre you being accused of a crime? It’s important to hire a tough and experienced criminal defense lawyer who knows how to get you out of trouble.
Today, we’re sharing our picks for the top law firms that house the best criminal defense lawyers in Edmonton who can defend you in court.
Before we get to that though, we’ll go over what it’d cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Edmonton, so you’ll know if you have enough funds for it.
The Cost of Criminal Defense Lawyers in Edmonton
We’ll be the first to admit it: hiring a criminal defense lawyer, or any type or lawyer, costs a lot of money.
The cost of legal defense in Edmonton differs from one law firm to another, depending on what you hire them for and their reputation. If a law firm is well-known in a specific field of law, expect that the rates will be above average.
Most criminal defense lawyers get paid by the hour considering that not all criminal accusations are the same. Some cases can be settled before going to court, while others escalate quickly to court.
We’ve found that a criminal defense lawyer in Edmonton has an hourly rate that ranges from $75 to over $750. It can go over a thousand easily if the lawyer is from a prominent law firm in the country.
Moreover, a complex and difficult criminal case means a lawyer will spend more time working on it, resulting in higher legal fees.
Fortunately, instead of hourly rates, some criminal defense lawyers charge block or flat fee schedules, which benefits clients who have limited budgets to begin with. It’s the safer alternative if you’re worried about the cost getting out of hand.
However, a huge percentage of criminal lawyers in the area have moved away from flat rates because of obvious reasons, so hiring one who offers flat rates can be a financially risky decision.
Agreeing to hire such a criminal lawyer without knowing how long the case would be dragged on could definitely push you into bankruptcy if the case stretches out long enough.
The Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Edmonton
Now that you have an idea of how much it’d cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Edmonton, it’s time to move to the law firms we think are worth checking out.
Below is the list of law firms known for having a team of the top criminal defense lawyers in Edmonton.
1. Chartrand Law Office
| BEST FOR | Criminal defence law firm |
| EXPERTISE | Criminal justice cases |
| WEBSITE | https://chartrandlaw.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | Wentworth Building Suite 204, 10209 – 97 Street Edmonton, Alberta T5J 0L6 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 24 Hours: 780-999-8001 Fax: 780-757-2220 Email: lionel@chartrandlaw.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – 9am-5pm Tuesday – 9am-5pm Wednesday – 9am-5pm Thursday – 9am-5pm Friday – 9am-5pm Saturday – Closed Sunday – Closed Holidays – Closed |
Chartrand Law Office is an Edmonton-based criminal defence law firm. They provide services in the Western provinces to clients who are looking for highly experienced litigators in the areas of criminal law and drug law.
Lionel Chartrand, their top attorney, has a wealth of experience in criminal law, constitutional law, and the charter of rights and freedoms. He has also successfully represented clients at all levels of court.
They conduct bail hearings, bail appeals, trials for Criminal Code, drug and traffic offences, sentencing hearings and conviction and sentence appeals. You can ask more details regarding their firm when you call them using their 24/7 hotline.
Unlike other companies however, they do not offer free consultations, which may make it a bit hard for you gauge whether or not they are the right pick for you. Their services are also a bit pricier compared to other companies.
Pros
- A 24/7 number you could call
- Covers a wide range of cases in criminal justice
Cons
- Free consultations are unavailable
- A bit pricier than other firms
2. Chadi & Co.
| BEST FOR | Criminal offences and impaired driving |
| EXPERTISE | Criminal law, personal injury law, and family law |
| WEBSITE | https://chadilaw.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 2101-10060 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 3R8 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 780-429-2300 https://chadilaw.com/contact-us/ |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
The criminal defense team at Chadi & Co. have decades of experience defending individuals accused of impaired driving, drug offences, and violent offences.
One thing to know about its criminal defense lawyers is that all of them have defended their clients against virtually every prosecutable offence under the The Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and The Criminal Code of Canada.
More than that, Chadi & Co. have won not-guilty verdicts across different counties, before Judges and Justices — which is an important thing to consider when looking for a criminal defense lawyer to hire.
Chadi & Co. can accept clients at every stage of the legal process too, from advice upon arrest down to trials and appeals.
It defends individuals against criminal charges in every jurisdiction of Alberta, including Airdie, Alexis, Boyle, Breton, Calgary, Cold Lake, Fairview, Grande Cache, Jasper, Killam, Peace River, and Valleyview, among others.
If you want to know if your jurisdiction is covered by Chadi & Co, don’t hesitate to contact to give them a call or shoot them an email.
Pros
- Successful track record
- No upfront fees for personal injury matters
- Have won not-guilty verdicts
- Have obtained bail for clients facing the most serious allegations
Cons
- Rates are above average
Customer Reviews
Here’s what past clients are saying about Chadi & Co.:
“Highly recommend Chadi & Company! I had Miya as my Lawyer for a serious traffic violation, she had my charges withdrawn and exceeded my expectations. She is extremely knowledgeable, informative and diligent. She was always very responsive and trustworthy. She is the first lawyer I think of when anyone asks about needing a recommendation.”
-Ali
“had an awesome experience with Miya Cunningham and cannot say enough positive things about her and the whole crew at Chadi & co. I had very serious legal matters that would have a significant impact on my life, my job and my family. My charges were dropped within a month of speaking with Miya. She is hardworking, passionate and will fight hard for you. Trust me, if you need a lawyer call Chadi & Co and ask for Miya.”
-Frankie C.
3. Kent Teskey of Pringle Chivers Sparks Teskey
| BEST FOR | Homicide cases |
| EXPERTISE | Impaired driving, drug offences, assault offences, domestic violence, sexual assault, computer crimes, theft and financial crimes, and criminal appears |
| WEBSITE | https://www.pringlelaw.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 2101-10060 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 3R8 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (587) 400-6976 kteskey@pringlelaw.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
If you’re after a criminal defense lawyer who has the expertise to get you out of a homicide case, then you’d want to check out Kent Teskey from Pringle Chivers Sparks Teskey.
He’s a prominent criminal lawyer who handles everything from simple offence cases to complex homicide cases. Basically, his law practice includes the whole spectrum of criminal defense, so even those who need criminal appeals can hire him.
As of today, Kent has litigated hundreds of criminal cases at all levels of court and on appeal, so he definitely knows how he can soften the charges on his clients or have them completely dropped, if possible.
In terms of rates, Kent’s law firm can accommodate all budgets and provide flexible payment options, on top of the free consultations. You won’t have to worry about not having enough funds to hire a lawyer because this law firm will find a way for you.
Lastly, his practice is focused in the Edmonton Area, including northern and central Alberta. This is the jurisdiction where he has extensive experience in dealing with judges and prosecutors.
Pros
- Offers flat fee to clients
- Flexible payment options
- Free consultations
- President of the Law Society of Alberta
- Member of the Board of Directors of the Schizophrenia Society of Alberta
Cons
- Always swapped with clients
Customer Reviews
Here’s what customers are saying about his services:
“We would highly recommend the legal services provided by Kent Teskey. Kent provided us with efficient and knowledgeable legal services and made himself available as needed. Kent remained very professional and guided us in a way that met our needs while still ensuring we were informed about the required decisions. Again we would highly recommend the legal services of Kent Teskey.”
“Mr. Teskey was straight forward with me from the beginning and did not sugar coat anything. He helped walk me through the process of what was going to happen and was always available to answer any questions that I had. I highly recommend using this firm. All their staff are friendly and have never made me feel ashamed of walking in the door. Thank you for your help!”
4. Bottos Law Group
| BEST FOR | Criminal appeals |
| EXPERTISE | Murder and other forms of homicide, impaired driving, sexual assault, aggravated assault, drug offences, firearm and weapon offences, theft and fraud, Internet crimes, and youth criminal justice |
| WEBSITE | https://bottoslaw.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 10226 104 Street NW Edmonton, AB T5J 1B8 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 780-421-7031 reception@bottoslaw.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Bottos Law Group is a criminal law firm you’ve probably heard of given that it’s handled most of the high-profile criminal cases in Edmonton and Alberta. It aims to represent individuals accused of any form of crime, regardless of how small or serious it is.
Some of the cases handled by its lawyers are all types of homicide, impaired driving, sexual assault, theft and fraud, firearm and weapon assault, white-collar crimes, drug offences, and even criminal appeals
All interested individuals are entitled to a free legal consultation with any of its criminal defence lawyers. If a client wants to move forward, Bottos Law Group will have to ask for a retainer fee.
Once its lawyers make a comprehensive review of a case, they will provide a flat-rate fee for a trial. Clients may pay through cash, cheque, money transfer, or even credit card.
However, if a client doesn’t have enough for its legal services, Bottos Law Group will allow them to choose from its flexible payment plans.
Bottos Law Group’s area of practice includes Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Leduc, Calgary, Fort McMurray, and Grand Prairie, among others.
Pros
- One of the most prominent lawyers in Edmonton
- Long list of service areas
- Flexible payment plans
- Wide area of specialties
Cons
- Legal services lean toward the expensive side
Customer Reviews
Take a look at some of the reviews posted by Bottos Law Group:
“I hired Ashley Antonio to represent my case and I couldn’t have been more pleased with her excellent work. Ashley is a very friendly person who kept me fully up to date on what was happening with my case, she walked me through it every step of the way while answering all the questions I had (even on the weekend). Ashley showed genuine care for my case as if she was representing her own family. Do not underestimate her because of her student at law status, I would have gladly paid double for the work and the results she produced. 11/10 would recommend it! Thanks again Ashley!!!”
“I had the pleasure in a difficult situation to meet a great lawyer, Ashley Antonio. She is not only professional, but she is also personable. She was able to answer any of my questions and that helped me understand the process. I highly recommend Ashley and Bottos Law Group.”
5. Haryett & Company
| BEST FOR | Driving impaired charges |
| EXPERTISE | Drug offences, DUI impaired driving, sexual assault, domestic assault, white-collar crime, traffic violations, and forged prescriptions |
| WEBSITE | https://www.haryett.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 100-9924 106 St, Edmonton, AB T5K 1C4, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 780-426-5317 1-877-716-5317 Bail 24/7: 780-940-2808 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
Established in 1994, Haryett & Company has over 25 years of experience in defending individuals from driving impaired and driving under the influence charges.
Its criminal defense team has defended clients against all types of road-related offences, such as hit-and-run, motorcycle DUI, traffic violations, DUI resulting in injury or death, multiple DUI offences, and even refusal to take the breathalyzer.
Outside of road and vehicle-related charges, Haryett & Company’s defense lawyers handle assault charges, drug possession, drug trafficking, probation violation, weapons charges, and domestic assault, among others.
All individuals who seek out help from its lawyers are entitled to a 30-minute consultation free of charge. It’s a bit shorter than what most law firms offer, but most clients tend to look past this given the experience of its lawyers.
Pros
- 25 years of experience
- Wide range of legal services
- Large team of criminal defense lawyers
Cons
- Its free consultation lasts only 30 minutes
- Shorter operating hours on Fridays
Customer Reviews
Here’s what previous clients had to say about their experience with Haryett & Company:
“I would like to thank Haryett & Company. I would especially like to thank Kent. Kent used his expertise which got me a very favorable conclusion to the matter that was at hand. I would also like to thank Kent for his very favorable advice on my future. Kent is a very personable person and I would have to say I had a very good time talking with him. Considering the seriousness of my matter, we still managed to have a lot of good laughs. Again, Thanks Kent. Also thanks to any staff involved in resolving this matter. Good job done by all.”
-Janette Parranto
“Kent worked with me through my case, from every angle, and never minced words through any of our interactions. I was prepared for the worst, but Kent never gave up, and although my case did prove to be challenging, Kent worked tirelessly to find any flaws in the case, and successfully had my case acquitted at trial. If you’re finding yourself in a bind, Kent Haryett is worth every penny. Plus if you’re a dog person, his office has an adorable dog to help you get over your pre meeting jitters.”
-Lee Richard
6. Oykhman Criminal Defence Law
| BEST FOR | Collective legal approach |
| EXPERTISE | Murder, sexual assault, impaired driving, violent offences, drug offences, assaults and threats, traffic crime, and property crime |
| WEBSITE | https://www.oykhmancriminaldefence.com/edmonton/ |
| ADDRESS | Suite 410, 9707 110 Street Edmonton, AB T5K 2L9 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (587) 930-7877 danielleboisvert@so-law.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Open 24 hours |
Oykhman Criminal Defence Law is a law firm that believes “knowledge is power,” so one of the first things its defense lawyers will do is help individuals understand their own rights and possible defences for their case.
Another thing that sets it apart from other criminal defense law firms is its collective legal approach. Unlike most law firms, all clients will get multiple lawyers for the price of one.
When a client hires any of its lawyers, other criminal defense lawyers will always be willing to offer their second opinion and provide another perspective for your case, especially in emergency situations.
Oykhman Criminal Defence Law has successfully defended thousands of criminal cases throughout multiple provinces and at all levels of the court. It has offices in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, making its services accessible.
You won’t have to worry about expensive legal rates because it can cater to all budget ranges. It even offers flexible payment structures for clients who don’t have enough funds to settle the payment upfront.
In terms of customer service, it also doesn’t fall short. Clients are constantly informed about updates and processes in their cases, if any.
Pros
- Reliable customer service
- Competitive rates
- Flexible payment structure
- Multiple offices across the country
- Open 24 hours
- Free consultation
Cons
- Some of its lawyers have received not-so-positive reviews
Customer Reviews
Take a look at the comments shared on Google Reviews by previous clients:
“It was an absolute nightmare when I was faced with this driving charge. I thought my life was over. Fortunately, I reached out to Michael Oykhman criminal defence, and they assigned me to Ryan Patmore. He did a fantastic job, and I was blessed with a favorable outcome. I would also like to thank Amie, she was always easy to contact and kept me in the loop. If anyone is looking for helpful legal assistance, Ryan is definitely the best option you can get!
-QingXin Wang
“I highly recommend Micheal Oykman Criminal Defense Lawyers!!! I had the pleasure of Joseph Beller taking on my case and helping me easily understand the choices I had and we quickly came to a resolution and my charge was dropped!! He was very caring and if I had any questions he would answer them for me and make me feel better about the situation I was in. I’m really impressed with how fast it was solved. They are also very reasonable with price ranges varying and will work with you so you can afford it. Once again I am over the moon happy with how my case turned out. Thank you Joseph and the rest of the team for being there when I needed it most”
-Ayden Coulson
7. DDSG Criminal Law
| BEST FOR | Serious criminal charges |
| EXPERTISE | Murder, sexual assault, theft and fraud, robbery, kidnapping, drug offences, criminal harassment, breaches of probation, and weapons offences |
| WEBSITE | https://www.dsscrimlaw.com/ |
| ADDRESS | Anderson Dawson Building 9924 106 Street Edmonton, Alberta T5K 1C4 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 780-424-9058 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
Another law firm that made our list is DDSG Criminal Law. It’s a highly recommended criminal defense law firm for individuals accused of serious criminal offences, such as robbery, kidnapping, manslaughter, criminal harassment, drug trafficking, and breaching probation, among others.
When it comes to track record, DDSG Criminal Law doesn’t disappoint. It’s defended thousands of clients against all sorts of criminal allegations and in all trial courts for more than 35 years now.
Its status in the criminal defense practice in Canada is attributed mainly to its experienced and sharp lawyers, all of whom are members of the Canadian Council of Criminal Defence Lawyers
More than that, its criminal defense lawyers can be hired at any stage of a criminal prosecution process, starting from the arrest until plea negotiations.
It’s worth noting that DDSG Criminal Law is only the law firm that we know of that has developed its own network of qualified professionals in other fields who can support its criminal trial and appeal practices.
This includes private investigators, forensic experts, medical doctors, and computer experts, among others. These additional resources allow DDSG Criminal Law to do specialized defences involving polygraphs, drug consumption, computer technology, and mental fitness.
Pros
- More than 35 years of experience
- Can handle serious criminal offences
- Enlists help from doctors, forensic experts, and computer experts
Cons
- Expensive legal services
8. Hopkins Law
| BEST FOR | Competitive legal services |
| EXPERTISE | Murder, sexual assault, domestic assault, drug offences, fraud and theft, impaired driving, young offenders, firearm offences, and regulatory offences |
| WEBSITE | https://www.hopkinsandcompany.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 11051 – 97 St. Suite 101 Edmonton, Alberta T5H 2N2 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 587-414-6851 1-877-228-6697 marshall@hopkinsandcompany.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Open 24 hours |
If you’re looking for a criminal defense law firm with competitive rates, then we recommend taking a look at Hopkins Law. It’s headed by Marshall Hopkins, a criminal lawyer who’s been in practice for over two decades now.
Marshall is joined by Carli Ryan, a lawyer who graduated from University of Alberta. She conducts her law practice in English and French, assisting in complicated legal matters and taking the role of counsel in indictable conviction matters.
All in all, Hopkins Law’s practice areas include murder, domestic assault, sexual assault, firearm offences, impaired driving, fraud, theft, and drug offences, among others.
In case you need legal help outside office hours, you may call Hopkins Law any time of the day. It’s available by phone 24 hours of a day, so you may ask for help even during the late hours of the night.
Pros
- Can be reached by phone 24/7
- Accessible location
- Affordable legal services
Cons
- Small law firm, so limited staff
9. Barr LLP
| BEST FOR | Full-service Legal Services |
| EXPERTISE | Family Law |
| WEBSITE | https://barrllp.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 10123 99 St NW #2500, Edmonton, AB T5J 3H1, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Tel: +17804145400 Email: info@barrpicardlaw.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday 8:30AM–12PM 1–5PM Tuesday 8:30AM–12PM 1–5PM Wednesday 8:30AM–12PM 1–5PM Thursday 8:30AM–12PM 1–5PM Friday 8:30AM–12PM 1–4:30PM |
Barr LLP is a law firm that offers full-legal services in the area that specializes in a variety of fields such as Family Law, Civil Litigation, Criminal Law, and corporate cases among many others. With over 20 years in the industry, they can incorporate into their work the interests of the clients and help decide what the best course of action is to be taken to uphold it as well.
Currently employing 15 certified lawyers, they are still expanding to younger partnerships and always stay up to date on legal knowledge to better serve clients in the current time and present circumstances.
We find their website to be very informative and can serve as a great resource material for clients who are looking to avail of their services to better choose what service they are to avail of.
Each of their lawyers has an online profile so that clients can also get to know them and their experience in order to decide which one is best suited for their case and consequently reach out to them later on.
Though the website does not have an online booking feature, clients can easily visit them at their firm with parking spaces available in the surrounding areas as well.
Pros
- Experienced lawyers
- Online booking available
- Reliable resources
Cons
- Closed on weekends
10. Gunn Law Group
| BEST FOR | Criminal defence law firm |
| EXPERTISE | Criminal justice cases |
| WEBSITE | https://www.gunnlawgroup.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | Edmonton, AB, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (780)488-4460 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – 9am-5pm Tuesday – 9am-5pm Wednesday – 9am-5pm Thursday – 9am-5pm Friday – 9am-5pm |
Our experience with Gunn Law Group was marked by the comprehensive criminal defense services they provided. From initial consultations to courtroom representation, their legal expertise covered various aspects, offering a robust defense strategy for our case.
Efficiency was a key highlight during our association with Gunn Law Group. The responsiveness of their legal team and the timely handling of our case showcased a commitment to swift and effective legal support. Regular updates and clear communication further contributed to a smooth and organized legal process.
The quality of legal services at Gunn Law Group was exceptional. The attorneys demonstrated a deep understanding of criminal defense laws, providing insightful advice and strategic counsel. The attention to detail in legal documentation and the thorough preparation for courtroom proceedings reflected their dedication to delivering high-quality legal representation.
Cost considerations were transparent at Gunn Law Group. We appreciated the upfront communication about legal fees and potential costs, allowing us to make informed decisions while managing our budget. The value we received in legal representation and defense services made the investment worthwhile.
Pros
- Experienced lawyers
- Online booking available
- Reliable resources
Cons
- Busy during peak days
11. Stuffco Law
| SERVICES | Bail Release Domestic Violence Drug Possession Trafficking Impaired Driving Defence |
| WEBSITE | http://stuffcolaw.com |
| ADDRESS | 9844 – 106 Street Edmonton, Alberta T5K 1B8 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | info@stuffcolaw.com 761-1430 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
Stuffco Law is a partnership between two independent attorneys, Mr. Phillip Stuffco, Q.C. Mr. Jordan Stuffco, too. They have over 58 years of combined legal expertise as a father and son partnership. Phil is a seasoned lawyer who is well-known across Edmonton and Northern Alberta for his business and commercial abilities.
Jordan, on the other hand, is a seasoned criminal defense attorney. Phil and Jordan are able to assist a varied spectrum of clients due to their extensive legal understanding. Phillip and Jordan think that honesty is essential in all parts of their law business.
They also have an associate lawyer named Frank Carbonaro whose main focus of his legal practice is assisting individuals facing criminal and regulatory offenses. He also handles small claims and other civil litigation matters.
Pros
- Experienced lawyers
- Over 58 years of combined experience
- Affordable rates
Cons
- Closed on weekends
Customer Reviews
I would not hesitate to recommend Jordan if you ever need a great lawyer in your corner
“Jordan Stuffco gave me back my life. From the moment I first spoke to him on the phone, I knew he would be my defense lawyer. He was very supportive, knowledgeable, a great listener and not to mention a super star in court. I would not hesitate to recommend Jordan if you ever need a great lawyer in your corner. Thanks again Jordan.” – Colin Yong
He is thorough and determined, not to mention an excellent lawyer
“Jordan representation was an absolute Godsend! Not only were we successful in court, but Jordan was very easy to talk to, incredibly supportive, and very clearly determined to seek a positive outcome for me. I really felt he was going to do everything in his power to rectify my situation. And he did. He is thorough and determined, not to mention an excellent lawyer. I’d give him 10 stars if I could!” – Desiree Bouchard
FAQs about Criminal Defense Law
The best criminal defense lawyers Edmonton will help you with even the most stressful cases and will provide legal services anywhere.
Are there any other great services that we missed, though? Send us a message and we’ll update the article promptly.
And if the cases were domestic, here’s a list of the best family lawyers in Edmonton to help you get justice.
