Sex Crimes and Defence Lawyers
in Edmonton & Calgary, Alberta

Sexual assault concerns a range of non-consensual sexual contact. Two issues are central to almost every case: whether there was consent, and whether the accused person knew there wasn't. Because these cases often turn on credibility and the specific circumstances rather than physical evidence alone, careful, experienced defence work is essential.

They can be significant, but they vary. Sexual assault is a hybrid offence, so the Crown can proceed summarily or by indictment, and penalties on indictment can reach ten years—higher where a young complainant is involved. A charge is not a conviction, though, and outcomes depend heavily on the evidence and the defence raised. Given what's at stake, both personally and professionally, early legal advice is critical.

Not automatically. The law changed in 2023: registration under the national Sex Offender Information Registration Act (SOIRA) is no longer automatic for most offences. Judges now have discretion in many cases, with mandatory registration generally reserved for the most serious offences and for repeat offenders. Whether an order would apply to you is something your lawyer can address as part of your defence—and because this area of law continues to change, current advice matters.

Protect your rights from the outset. Do not give a statement to police before speaking with a lawyer—you have the right to remain silent, and early explanations rarely help. Do not contact the complainant in any way, directly or indirectly. Preserve any messages, photos, or records that may be relevant, and write down your own account of events privately, to share only with your lawyer.

Yes. These are among the most serious and complex charges in the Criminal Code, and a conviction reaches into every part of your life. The law of consent, the rules of evidence, and the registry regime are all technical and evolving. Having an experienced defence lawyer from the earliest stage gives you the best chance at a fair outcome. Contact us for a free, private consultation.