Being arrested can be one of the most stressful and confusing experiences in a person’s life. Whether the arrest relates to assault, impaired driving, drug offences, fraud, or another Criminal Code charge, the steps you take immediately can significantly impact your case. If you are unsure about your rights or what happens next, obtaining legal advice as soon as possible can make a meaningful difference in protecting your freedom and your future.
At Centobin Law Office, our Criminal Defence Lawyer in Calgary regularly assists individuals throughout Calgary who have been detained, questioned, or formally charged by police. We understand the Alberta criminal justice system and recognize how crucial the first few hours and days can be when building a strong defence strategy and safeguarding your rights under Canadian law.
When police officers place you under arrest, it is essential to remain calm and cooperative. Resisting arrest or becoming confrontational can lead to additional charges, such as obstruction of justice or assaulting a peace officer.
In Calgary, arrests may occur:
Even if you believe the arrest is unfair, do not argue or physically resist. Your time to challenge the legality of the arrest comes later in court—not at the scene—with the guidance of an experienced Criminal Defence Lawyer who can properly assess the circumstances and protect your rights.
Under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, you have important legal protections the moment you are detained or arrested.
Police must inform you of your right to counsel. Once you request a lawyer, questioning must stop until you have had a reasonable opportunity to consult one.
As a Criminal Defence Lawyer, we frequently assess whether police respected your Charter rights. If violations occurred, we may bring a Charter application to exclude evidence or seek a stay of proceedings.
One of the most important steps you can take is to remain silent.
You are required to provide basic identifying information, but you are not obligated to answer questions about the alleged offence. Many people believe that explaining their side of the story will help. In reality, statements made during police interviews are often used as evidence in court.
Police may use various interview techniques to obtain admissions. Even casual comments in a holding cell or police vehicle may be recorded.
We strongly advise that you clearly state:
“I wish to speak to a lawyer and I am exercising my right to remain silent.”
Then remain consistent in asserting that right.
After your arrest in Calgary, contacting experienced legal counsel should be your top priority. Early legal intervention can make a substantial difference in:
At Centobin Law Office, our Criminal Defence Lawyer team responds quickly to urgent matters, including weekend and evening arrests.
Call us immediately at +1 403-249-1733 if you or a loved one has been arrested in Calgary.
After an arrest, you may be:
If police do not release you, you will be brought before a justice of the peace or judge for a bail hearing, typically within 24 hours.
Conditions may include:
Our role as defence counsel is to argue for your release on the least restrictive conditions possible.
Avoid discussing the details of your arrest with:
Communications can become evidence. Text messages, emails, and social media posts are regularly used in criminal prosecutions.
Even conversations with friends may be subpoenaed in certain cases.
Your discussions about the case should be limited strictly to your lawyer, where solicitor-client privilege protects confidentiality.
If you are released with conditions, it is crucial to follow them precisely.
Breaching bail conditions can result in:
Even minor breaches—such as accidental contact in a domestic violence matter—can lead to serious consequences.
If your conditions are unrealistic or problematic, we can apply to vary them through the court.
We represent individuals charged with a wide range of offences, including:
Each charge carries unique legal elements that the Crown must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.
Following your arrest and release, the criminal process continues through several stages:
You attend Provincial Court in Calgary to address the charges.
The Crown provides evidence, including police reports, witness statements, video, and forensic evidence.
Your lawyer negotiates with the Crown, explores withdrawal options, or considers alternative measures programs.
No. Even innocent statements can be misunderstood or misinterpreted. Always speak with legal counsel first.
Immediately. The earlier we are involved, the more effectively we can protect your rights.
Yes, depending on the evidence, procedural issues, and negotiation strategy.
Being arrested in Calgary can feel overwhelming, but the steps you take immediately can shape the outcome of your case. Remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, request legal counsel, and avoid discussing your situation with others. Most importantly, contact a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Calgary as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected from the outset.At Centobin Law Office, we stand ready to act as your trusted Criminal Defence Lawyer, guiding you through every stage of the criminal justice process with professionalism, discretion, and determination. Call us today at +1 403-249-1733 to protect your future.
