Business Details
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Calgary Criminal Defense Team
At Der Barristers, we specialize in criminal law, offering strategic legal representation grounded in decades of combined experience. Our team of seasoned litigators approaches each case with meticulous attention to detail, crafting tailored defense strategies that prioritize client needs. We serve a diverse clientele, including individuals, corporations, and professionals facing criminal allegations, with expertise spanning trials, appeals, and complex offenses.Our philosophy emphasizes integrity, innovation, and unwavering advocacy, ensuring clients receive both legal expertise and compassionate support. With a focus on transparency and client education, we demystify legal processes while maintaining a collaborative, team-based approach to problem-solving. Our commitment to excellence has solidified our reputation as a trusted leader in Canadian criminal defense.
Services
Criminal Law
Appeals
Assault Cases
Drug Offenses
Driving Charges
Bail Hearings
Weapons Charges
Sexual Offenses
Youth Criminal Defense
Property-Related Offences
Highlights and features
- We offer over 80 years of combined criminal law experience.
- Our team includes recognized leaders in Canadian appellate law.
- We provide 24/7 emergency legal consultation services.
- We employ a collaborative team approach for comprehensive case analysis.
- We specialize in complex cases including murder, sexual assault, and drug trafficking.
Services
Criminal Law
Der Barristers provides comprehensive criminal defense services for individuals and organizations facing charges ranging from minor offenses to complex felonies. Our team combines deep legal knowledge with strategic advocacy to protect client rights. With expertise in trial preparation, plea negotiations, and sentencing advocacy, we deliver tailored defense strategies for cases involving assault, fraud, drug trafficking, and more.
Appeals
Our firm specializes in appellate representation across Canadian court systems, including the Supreme Court of Canada. We conduct thorough reviews of trial records to identify legal errors that could form the basis for appeals. Our lawyers develop compelling arguments to challenge convictions or sentences, leveraging decades of experience in higher court procedures and precedents.
Assault Cases
We defend clients facing assault charges from simple battery to aggravated assault with weapons. Our approach includes scrutinizing evidence, challenging witness testimony, and developing defense strategies tailored to case specifics. We handle domestic assault cases with sensitivity while aggressively protecting clients' rights and reputations in court.
Drug Offenses
Our team defends against all drug-related charges including possession, trafficking, and production. We analyze procedural compliance in arrests and evidence handling while developing defense strategies based on case specifics. We address immigration consequences and work to minimize long-term impacts on clients' lives through negotiated resolutions or trial advocacy.
Driving Charges
We represent clients facing impaired driving, dangerous driving, and other motor vehicle offenses under both provincial and federal laws. Our defense strategies address technical aspects of breathalyzer evidence, procedural compliance, and alternative sentencing options. We work to protect driving privileges and minimize penalties that could affect employment and insurance rates.
People
Balfour Der
K.C.
Recognized as Calgary's top defense counsel with over 5,000 cases handled. Former prosecutor turned defense lawyer, combining trial experience with strategic advocacy. Maintains 5/5 peer rating and leads the firm's collaborative approach.
Lisa Burgis Der
Criminal Defense Lawyer
One of Calgary's most experienced female criminal defense attorneys. Specializes in complex criminal cases with over 25 years of exclusive practice in criminal law. Known for thorough case preparation and client advocacy.
James McLeod
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Graduated from Thompson Rivers University Law School. Focuses on trial advocacy and appellate work. Combines legal expertise with community knowledge to provide effective representation for Calgary-area clients.
David Roper
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Experienced litigator with focus on complex criminal matters. Works collaboratively with senior partners to develop comprehensive defense strategies. Known for meticulous attention to case details and client communication.
Questions
What areas of criminal law does Der Barristers specialize in?
We specialize in assault cases, drug offenses, driving violations, sexual offenses, weapons charges, appeals, and complex crimes like murder and human trafficking.
Do you offer 24/7 legal consultation services?
Yes, our team provides emergency legal consultation services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for urgent matters.
How does Der Barristers handle youth criminal defense cases?
We provide specialized representation under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, focusing on rehabilitation while protecting future opportunities for young offenders.
Can you represent clients in appellate courts?
Yes, our firm has extensive experience handling appeals at all Canadian court levels, including the Supreme Court of Canada.
What makes Der Barristers different from other law firms?
Our collaborative team approach, decades of combined experience, and focus on complex criminal cases set us apart in Calgary's legal community.
Do you handle cases outside Calgary?
Yes, we represent clients across Alberta and throughout Canada in various criminal law matters.