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Breaking Development in Impaired Cases in Alberta
By Shannon Gunn Emery• September 2, 2026This is breaking news! In fact, CanLii, our national law reporter, has not even updated its website yet. So, you are likely hearing this for the first time here. A new amendment just came into force yesterday, September 1, 2026, that is going to be changing SafeRoads hearings. To understand…What Counts as Impaired Driving in Alberta?
By Shannon Gunn Emery• August 31, 2026What Does the Law Consider Impaired Driving? You may have heard people say that driving while tired is the same as driving while drunk. While fatigue can affect your reaction time and judgment, that statement does not accurately reflect Canadian law. Knowing what qualifies as impaired driving will help you…What to Know Before You Plead Guilty to Impaired Driving
By Shannon Gunn Emery• August 24, 2026Why You Should Think Carefully Before Pleading Guilty You may feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, and eager to put an impaired driving charge behind you. In that state of mind, pleading guilty right away may seem like the responsible thing to do. One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding impaired driving charges is…Can I Still Drive While Waiting for a DUI Trial in Alberta?
By Shannon Gunn Emery• August 17, 2026Immediate Roadside Sanctions vs. Criminal DUI Charges in Alberta If you are accused of impaired driving, one of the first questions you may ask is if you are still allowed to drive before your court date. The answer depends on what happened at the roadside and what steps you took…What to Know About the Ignition Interlock Program in Alberta
By Shannon Gunn Emery• May 4, 2026If you are required to use the Ignition Interlock Program in Alberta, you must install a device in your vehicle that prevents it from starting or continuing to run if alcohol is detected. The program has some ongoing costs and practical limitations, including restrictions on which vehicles can be equipped….How Are Criminal Charges Classified in Alberta?
By Shannon Gunn Emery• April 27, 2026Criminal charges in Alberta fall into three categories: summary, indictable, and hybrid offences. Hybrid offences are the most common and allow the Crown to choose how to proceed based on the seriousness of your case. Understanding how your charge is classified helps you know what to expect in terms of…7 Social Media Tips if You Are Going Through a Divorce
By Shannon Gunn Emery• April 24, 2026What you post on social media during a divorce or criminal case can seriously harm the outcome of your case. Even posts that may seem harmless can be used as evidence against you. The safest approach is simple: do not post about your legal situation and assume that anything you…Why You Should Not Pay Your SafeRoads Alberta Fine Before Talking to a Lawyer
By Shannon Gunn Emery• April 13, 2026If you receive an Immediate Roadside Sanction in Alberta, paying the fine too quickly can permanently waive your right to appeal. The SafeRoads portal encourages payment, but clicking a payment option may legally count as accepting the penalty. You should speak to a lawyer before making any payment-related decision to…What Happens When You Receive a SafeRoads Immediate Roadside Sanction in Alberta?
By Shannon Gunn Emery• April 6, 2026If you receive an Immediate Roadside Sanction (IRS) in Alberta, the consequences begin immediately. Your vehicle may be seized, and your licence is suspended on the spot. You have only seven days to start an appeal, and acting quickly can make a significant difference in protecting your driving privileges. Being…Plea Bargaining in Alberta
By Shannon Gunn Emery• March 30, 2026Plea bargaining allows you and the Crown to resolve your criminal case without going to trial. It can reduce risk, provide certainty, and sometimes limit jail time. However, if you are innocent, you should not plead guilty simply because the offer seems attractive. Understanding Plea Bargaining in Alberta Plea bargaining…How Bail Works in Alberta What You Need to Know About Release Conditions
By Shannon Gunn Emery• March 25, 2026If you are charged with a criminal offence in Alberta, you will go through a form of bail or release process. Release conditions are not admissions of guilt, but they are legally binding promises you must follow. Early legal advice is critical, especially if your case involves serious charges, repeat…Putting Children First in Your Divorce
By Shannon Gunn Emery• March 2, 2026Divorce is stressful for children, but your choices during the divorce process can significantly reduce that impact. Focusing on education, respectful communication, and child-centered decision-making helps protect your children’s emotional well-being. The Collaborative Divorce approach and professional guidance will make divorce less adversarial and healthier for your entire family. When…
