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Trusted Criminal Defence Lawyers in Edmonton, AB
DDSG Criminal Law is one of Western Canada's largest criminal law firms, dedicated to defending clients against all criminal allegations in trial and appeal courts, including the Supreme Court of Canada. With over 100 years of combined trial and appeal court experience, our team travels across Alberta, the Northwest Territories, and beyond to represent clients. We specialize in defending charges such as theft, assault, impaired driving, sexual assault, internet crimes, murder, fraud, and drug-related offenses.Our firm upholds every citizen's right to a fair trial and treatment by police and courts, offering experienced, professional, and confidential legal representation. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes, whether through acquittal, charge dismissal, or plea resolution. Our lawyers are actively involved in legal education, pro bono work, and professional associations, maintaining a reputation for leadership and excellence in criminal law.
Services
Criminal Defence
Appeals
Assault Charges
Drug Offences
Sexual Assault
Bail Applications
Sentencing Hearings
Plea Negotiations
Internet Crimes
Professional Disciplinary Hearings
Highlights and features
- We have over 100 years of combined criminal trial and appeal court experience.
- Our lawyers offer 24-hour legal advice upon arrest by police.
- We have defended thousands of clients against serious criminal charges since 1985.
- Our team includes former partners appointed as Provincial Court judges.
- We provide pro bono services and legal education seminars to support community justice.
Associations and certifications
- Canadian Council of Criminal Defence Lawyers (CCCDL)
- Criminal Trial Lawyers Association
Services
Criminal Defence
DDSG Criminal Law provides robust defense against all criminal charges, including theft, assault, DUI, sexual assault, and murder. Our experienced lawyers advocate for clients in trial and appeal courts, prioritizing acquittals, charge dismissals, or reduced sentences. With decades of expertise, we ensure professional, confidential, and affordable legal support.
Appeals
Our team specializes in criminal appeals, challenging unjust convictions or sentences in higher courts. We analyze trial errors, prepare rigorous legal arguments, and pursue outcomes like new trials or sentence reductions. With deep knowledge of appellate procedures, we offer strategic representation to rectify judicial misinterpretations.
Bail Applications
We assist clients in securing bail through urgent legal applications, ensuring compliance with court requirements while advocating for release conditions. Our lawyers present compelling arguments to demonstrate low flight risk and community ties, aiming to minimize pretrial detention and protect clients' rights during proceedings.
Drug Offences
We defend clients against drug trafficking, possession, and production charges, challenging evidence and constitutional violations. Our strategies include disputing unlawful searches, negotiating plea bargains, and advocating for diversion programs. We aim to reduce penalties, avoid criminal records, and address underlying issues through tailored legal solutions.
Sexual Assault
Our firm handles complex sexual assault cases, including child pornography and luring charges. We scrutinize evidence, challenge credibility of accusers, and defend against mandatory minimum sentences. With sensitivity to reputational risks, we work to dismiss charges or secure lenient outcomes while protecting clients' rights on the National Sex Offender Registry.
People
Mona T. Duckett
Senior Partner
A seasoned criminal defense lawyer with decades of trial and appellate experience, Mona Duckett is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. She has served as President of the Criminal Trial Lawyers Association and contributes to legal education as a sessional instructor at the University of Alberta Law School.
Lauren L. Garcia
Senior Partner
Lauren Garcia specializes in complex criminal litigation, including drug trafficking and assault cases. With over 25 years of practice, she has held leadership roles in Alberta's legal community and provides strategic defense counsel grounded in extensive courtroom advocacy and negotiation expertise.
Graham Johnson
Senior Partner
Graham Johnson focuses on appellate law and professional disciplinary hearings. A former director of the Criminal Trial Lawyers Association, he combines appellate expertise with a commitment to client confidentiality, ensuring rigorous defense strategies tailored to each case's unique circumstances.
Kathryn A. Quinlan
Senior Partner
Kathryn Quinlan brings expertise in sexual assault and internet crime defense. She has presented legal papers at national conferences and contributes to criminal law education, blending academic insight with practical courtroom experience to protect clients' rights in high-stakes cases.
Lance McClean
Managing Partner
Lance McClean oversees the firm's operations while representing clients in serious criminal charges. With a focus on bail applications and sentencing hearings, he emphasizes client-centered advocacy, leveraging his experience to navigate complex legal challenges and secure favorable outcomes.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve clients across Alberta and the Northwest Territories, with offices in Edmonton and Fort McMurray.
Do you offer 24/7 legal advice?
Yes, we provide 24-hour legal advice upon arrest to ensure immediate support for clients.
What types of criminal charges do you handle?
We defend against all criminal charges, including assault, DUI, drug offenses, sexual assault, and murder.
Can you assist with bail applications?
Yes, we specialize in urgent bail applications to secure release from custody and negotiate favorable conditions.
Do you handle appellate cases?
Yes, our team has extensive experience in criminal appeals, challenging unjust convictions or sentences in higher courts.
Are your services confidential?
We prioritize client confidentiality, ensuring all legal consultations and case details remain private.