Blog
calgary defence blog
A Defence lawyer's perspective on issues in criminal law
Please be aware that all commentary in my blog is designed to promote discourse on a variety of topics. Though I certainly do some research on the topics discussed and often offer my "two-cents", please keep in mind that nothing I say in this blog is meant to be taken as authoritative on any subject. My comments are really just me exercising my freedom of expression for the purpose of offering some insight on topics related to the practice of criminal law, in politics and current events. As with all topics of discussion, it is important for you to be critical. If you need a defence lawyer, please call 403.452.8018 for a free telephone consultation or consult with an experienced Calgary criminal lawyer. Happy reading! Happy watching!
Smoking Weed with your Boots On
SMOKING WEED WITH YOUR BOOTS ON Smoking weed with your boots on illegal? The opening of the CTV News article: “Drinking a beer in your cowboy boots is totally fine, but smoking…
More than just an Utterance: Differential Treatment for crimes by Police
Interestingly, in a post launched just a day ago: Mark Norman: What of those without the Resources to Defend their case?, I wrote about an imbalance in our criminal justice system.…
Mark Norman: What of those without the Resources to Defend their case?
the concern is broader than the treatment of mark norman Yes, there was a lot of shock over the treatment of Vice-Admiral, Mark Norman. https://www. cbc. ca/news/politics/non-disclosure-agreement-mark-norman-1.
Canada Day 101
a brief history of canada day It was not really until the early 80's that Canadians started to refer to the anniversary of July 1st, 1867 as Canada Day.
The Abbott SoToxa -- The Second Approved Drug Detection Instrument
canada's second drug detection instrument In April 2019 the Federal Government approved a second drug screening device used to screen for impaired drivers.
Right to Counsel: Concerns about the 1-800 Number
government funded 1-800 number In Alberta the Government funds a 1-800 service for detainees trying to exercise their right to counsel.
Shut the F*$k UP! Great Advice from the Pot Brothers
right to silence: shut the F*#k up Sometimes great legal advice doesn't need to be eloquent or sophisticated.
Flight of the Accused and the attack on solicitor-client privilege
I watched the local news with some concern about a situation where a wealthy Calgary businessman may have fled Canada while on bail.
Even if it's your Fault - Recognizing the DTC Program
This blog is an extension of my previous post: “Not his fault, but still his fault”.
"Not his fault", but still his fault - Justice or Injustice?
Though this post references the opioid crises, it is not about the opioid crisis.
Taxing by Tickets - Abuse of the law?
In the first two-weeks of Calgary’s street sweeping program the City has issued over 19,000 tickets and towed approximately 260 vehicles. https://www. google. ca/amp/s/beta. ctvnews. ca/local/calgary/2019/4/18/1_4386665.
Buy-and-bust: An Effective Police Technique
This post is to explain the basics of a common dial-a-dope police investigation.
Legal Aid in Calgary
legal aid in calgary Almost every Calgary criminal lawyer accepts at least a few cases every year on Legal Aid.
The CRA E-Transfer Scam
The intention of today’s post is to provide some information to protect you from fraudsters.
ALS Struck Down -- Thank you Mr. Sahaluk et al
It's about time! How many thousands of people have been sacrificed to recognize the value of our Charter rights? After a long and costly battle, where Calgary DUI lawyers banned together…
Charter Rights Beyond the Courtroom
As a Calgary criminal defence lawyer I often find myself arguing broad principles before Judges, asking them to assiduously protect the Charter protected interests of the accused so that the…
Erika Tucker's Wicked Questionable Little Question.
Global News Columnist, Erika Tucker, recently posed an interesting question: Why don’t Alberta judge’s know the law? http://globalnews. ca/news/2945530/travis-vader-verdict-robin-camp-controversy-why-dont-alberta-judges-know-the-law/ I offer some imperfect musings on this subject.
Alberta Woman Helped Keep Calgary Lawyers Accountable
Any regular reader of this blog knows that I spend a fair amount of time criticizing the Calgary Police Service and other law enforcement agencies.
Calgary Citizens Need to Beware The New Big Brother: Ourselves
The concept of civil liberty means a great deal to me, and not just because I am a Calgary defence lawyer.
Did Calgary's Mayor Violate the Civil Rights of People Convicted of Crimes?
Let me start by saying how ridiculous it is that what is apparently the greatest legal crisis facing Calgary today centers around a ride sharing app.
Vigilante Justice Isn't the Answer in Calgary or Anywhere Else
Warning: this is my second post in as many weeks where I profess my agreement with a law enforcement agency.
Calgary Police, the Law, and…"DUI"?
Any regular reader knows I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with the Calgary Police Service.