Charged with Forging Prescriptions? Here's What You Need to Know



Defining Prescription Forgery



·         Forging a physician’s signature on an existing or past prescription

·         Photocopying or rewriting a legitimate prescription

·         Increasing the quantity of a medication on a legitimate prescription



·         Valium

·         Adderall

·         Xanax

·         Percocet

·         Muscle Relaxers

·         Vicodin



Penalties for Prescription Forgery


What Should You Do if You’re Charged with a DUI in Edmonton but You’re not from Alberta?

Edmonton, Alberta is one of the most visited provinces in Canada and is a hot spot for relaxing and dining out. Of course, these activities are often accompanied by drinking alcohol, which may lead to driving impaired. If you’re a non-Alberta resident caught driving impaired in the province, you’ll still face the same penalties as Alberta residents—plus those of your own province. This means you’ll still be arrested, subject to legal action, and possibly charged with a driving under impairment (DUI) charge. Thus, you’ll need the assistance of an experienced DUI defence team. Find out how to navigate this complex legal situation below.


What Happens When You’re Charged with an Out-of-Province DUI?

When you’re charged with an out-of-province DUI, your driving privileges may be revoked or suspended in one or both provinces. Once you’re charged, your home province will likely be alerted of the legal action taken in Alberta. This alert may lead to a license suspension or revocation, depending on that province’s governing legislation. Although your home province may revoke or suspend your driving privileges, any further legal action or court proceedings will take place in Alberta. Since out-of-province DUI charges can be complicated and overwhelming, you’ll need the best DUI lawyer, like the team at Haryett & Company, to handle the legalities.


Driving Impaired in Edmonton, Alberta

In Edmonton, driving over the legal limit for drug and/or alcohol consumption is a serious criminal offence. The maximum legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is now 0.07 or 70 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood both federally and in Alberta. A BAC of 0.08 or higher is considered criminal impairment and carries serious penalties. Yet, even if your BAC is between 0.05 and 0.079, you may still face provincial penalties in Alberta. Since law enforcement no longer needs reasonable suspicion to administer drug and alcohol screening, you could be randomly subject to a breathalyzer. This heightens the possibility of being charged with a DUI. Failure to comply with this random test will result in a criminal charge.  Further, it does not matter whether the cause of impairment is as a result of alcohol or a drug; the consequences will be the same.

Penalties for a DUI Charge in Alberta

Since a DUI is a serious offence, you could face severe penalties. Depending on the severity of the offence, penalties may include:

·         Paying a fine of not less than $1000

·         Serving a prison sentence if the impairment results in an accident that causes serious injury(ies) or fatality(ies), or if the offender has a prior history of similar offences

·         Being prohibited from operating a motor vehicle for a minimum one (1) year

·         Completing all provincial reinstatement requirements, including mandatory participation in the Ignition Interlock Program

·         Significantly increased insurance premiums for 3-5 years

·         The acquisition of a criminal record

If you're not a resident of Alberta but you've been charged with a DUI, don't delay! Call us for more information on securing the legal advice you need.

What You Need to Know About Online Sex Offenses and an Internet Sex Crime Charge

Crimes like child pornography and using the internet to initiate sexual contact with a minor are some of the most prevalent online sex offenses. If you’re charged with an internet sex crime, you could face harsh penalties. An experienced defence lawyer from Haryett & Company will fight to protect you from harsh punishments and false accusations. Below are a few things you will need to know about online sex offenses:

Types of Internet Sex Crimes

Engaging in inappropriate or illegal sexual activity online could lead to a sex offense charge. Choosing to act in an inappropriate or neglectful manor can leave you vulnerable to serious accusations. The most common internet sex crimes are:

·         Transmitting or exchanging lewd or obscene materials via email (e.g. child pornography, non-consensual intimate images, etc.)

·         Viewing or downloading child pornography

·         Sex Tourism – taking a vacation with the sole purpose of engaging in sexual activities that are illegal in Canada, but legal in the country you’re visiting

·         Online solicitation of sex with a minor or using the internet to facilitate a sexual offense against a minor

·         Arranging a sexual encounter(s) with a minor or child luring

Online Sex Offense Laws

It’s a crime to commit sexual abuse, sexual assault or to engage in any sexual contact with a minor under the age of 16 (the age of consent). Additionally, it’s illegal to engage in a sexual act with a minor who is more than five years younger than you. These laws extend to the internet with a few adjustments. For example, the online laws extend to the transmission of graphic intimate images or sexual conversations with minors via emails, texts, instant messages and other forms of online communication. The possession, distribution or production of child pornography are also included in these laws.

It’s also illegal to use the internet to lure or attempt to lure a child for the purpose of committing a sexual act. Enticement of any type is considered a crime. However, using the internet with the intent to commit a crime must be proven, and this is why it's important for you to seek the help of some of the most experienced criminal lawyers Edmonton offers. If you’re accused of committing an internet sex crime, contact the defence lawyers at Haryett & Company immediately.

Penalties for Online Sex Offenses

If you’re accused of an online sex offense, it’s paramount to understand what constitutes this type of crime and what the penalties are for a conviction. Because of the stigma, even the accusation of a sex crime can be life altering; an internet sex crime charge could cause you to lose your job, your friends or family, your partner and more. The legal consequences of a sex crime conviction can be even more devastating. These consequences or penalties, may include:

·         Mandatory minimum prison sentences

·         Mandatory sex offender registration  

·         Compliance with a prohibition order or an order that prohibits contact with any persons under the age of 16. This includes visiting or living near public parks, schools, etc.

·         Forfeiture of your property


If you've been accused of committing an internet sex crime, don't delay. Contact our office immediately for more information on securing the expert legal advice you will need.

Traffic Violations: Types of Offences & Why You Should Take Them Seriously

Many people assume traffic violations or infractions are not a big deal. In some cases, you pay the fine and that's the end of the process. In other cases, however, such as if you were to ignore the infractions, minor violations could one day lead to big consequences. Pay attention to every infraction you receive. If you don’t, you could lose your license or personal freedom, at least for a period of time. Educate yourself on the many possible traffic violations and their related penalties, and know who to call if and when you require the help of an experienced lawyer.  

Types of Traffic Violations

In Canada, there are many types of traffic violations. These violations can lead to minor, major, serious or criminal convictions. A conviction could adversely affect your driving record, but an experienced criminal defence lawyer from Haryett & Company could help prevent this from happening. The most common offenses and convictions, include:

·         Careless driving

·         Dangerous driving

·         Impaired driving

·         Abrupt lane changes

·         Excessive speeding

·         Stunt driving

·         Highway offenses

·         Driving while prohibited or unauthorized

·         Criminal negligence or causing an accident that results in serious injury or death

·         Driving over .08 Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)

Although the above violations are the most common, the list of possible traffic infractions is extensive. Every violation can be placed into one of three categories: minor, major or serious and criminal violations.

Common Minor Violations:

·         Improper braking or non-working brakes

·         Failing to signal

·         Failing to use a seatbelt

·         Speeding

·         Failing to yield to another vehicle or pedestrian

·         Traffic light or stop sign infractions

·         Failing to produce or carry an insurance card

·         Unsafe or prohibited turns


Common Major Violations:

·         Failing to stop or follow restrictions in an improper passing or school zone

·         Improper passing in front of a school bus

·         Speeding in a construction zone or school zone

·         Failing to produce valid proof of insurance, registration, or license

·         Operating a motor vehicle without insurance

·         Careless driving

·         Leaving the scene of an accident

·         Stunt driving

·         Driving 50 km over the posted or set speed limit

Serious and Criminal Violations:

·         Dangerous driving

·         Criminal negligence or causing an accident that results in serious injury or death (vehicular manslaughter)

·         Failing to obey law enforcement officers

·         Leaving the scene of an accident with the intention to escape civil or criminal liability

·         Street racing

·         Driving impaired with a BAC above 0.08 or above the legal limit for other substances

·         Refusing a Breathalyzer Test

Penalties for Traffic Violations

Even seemingly minor tickets can add up and lead to serious consequences. In Alberta, you might receive demerit points with a traffic related conviction. You are permitted to accumulate 15 points, at which point your license may be suspended or even revoked.  

For minor violation convictions, you will also face small or moderate fines. On the other hand, major, serious or criminal offences almost always involve moderate or large fines, court costs and other fees.

If you have questions about traffic violations and require the guidance of an experienced criminal defence lawyer, please call us.

Have You Received a Weapons Charge? Here's What You Need to Know

If you’ve received a weapons charge, this can be a confusing and stressful time. Weapons charges are serious and can affect many aspects of your life. Educate yourself and seek the guidance of an experienced criminal defence lawyer to help secure your future.

The Consequences

There are many different consequences you may face if you are convicted on a weapons charge. These include but are not limited to:

A Jail Sentence

In many instances, a weapons charge will carry a jail sentence, the length of which will be decided by the judge. If the person charged is carrying a firearm when a crime is committed, such as a robbery, they could receive a minimum jail sentence of 4 years, for example.


Individuals charged with an offense involving a weapon have greater difficulty securing reasonable bail, and they may be denied bail altogether. 

Criminal Record

When you are convicted of any crime, it's included as part of your criminal record. When you apply for a job and they perform a background check, your criminal record will show that you were convicted of a weapons related offense.

Revocation of Professional License

Some professions require a license, such as doctors and nurses. If you carry a professional license of any sort and get convicted of a weapons charge, your license can be revoked. This may not be a sentencing from the judge but will likely come from the association that granted your license.

What You Can Do

A weapons charge can mean serious jail time, and time spent in jail can significantly alter the course of your life. Take steps to ensure you have the best possible legal team on your side. Haryett & Company is one of the most experienced law firms in Edmonton, Alberta when it comes to defending individuals charged with weapons related offenses. We have built a reputation for providing expert, individualized legal advice, and for fighting aggressively for our clients in court. Contact us today for more information.

Why Traffic Violations & Driving Charges Should be Taken Seriously

Traffic law violations and driving offences are not uncommon, but it doesn't mean that they should be dismissed or not considered serious. Particularly if you or someone you know has been charged with dangerous driving causing damage, injury or death, it's particularly important to understand the consequences and to take steps to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.

Driving infractions can vary from simple tickets to the possibility of a Criminal Code conviction, depending on the subsisting facts. These are just some of the consequences that can results from traffic violations and driving offences:

Higher Insurance

Even seemingly small traffic tickets can cause your insurance rates to climb. To your insurance company, a traffic ticket means that you’re a liability which could end up costing them money, so they raise your rates. A few violations that can cause higher insurance rates are:

·         Speeding

·         Running a Red Light or Stop Sign

·         Distracted Driving

License Suspension

Your license can be suspended for several reasons ranging from minor to major driving offences:

·         Multiple Minor Tickets: Whether you have multiple speeding tickets or a few tickets for seemingly minor violations, you could be at risk for having your license suspended.

·         Impaired Driving: Also known as drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs.

·         Careless Driving: Driving without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for persons using the highway.

Jail Sentence

While it isn't likely that you will go to jail for speeding, there are more serious types of traffic crimes that can carry jail sentences. Particularly with a serious driving offence, you should seek the help of some of the most experienced lawyers Edmonton has to offer. Haryett & Company have been working to protect the rights of those charged with driving offences that include the following for more than 20 years:

·         Leaving the Scene of an Accident: Leaving the scene of an accident without waiting for the authorities to arrive, even if no one was injured, can result in charges. In instances where you leave the scene of an accident that involved injuries or death, charges can carry jail time.

·         Careless Driving: Careless driving causing injury or death can carry stiff penalties, including a jail sentence.

·         DUI: Causing serious injury or death while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Whether you have received a few traffic tickets or a serious driving violation, now's the time to seek legal advice. Haryett & Company will provide you with the professional advice and legal defense you need. Contact us today.

Impaired Driving that Causes Serious Injury or Death

An impaired driving charge can significantly affect your daily life in a wide variety of ways, but when you're charged with impaired driving causing serious injury or death, the consequences can be much more severe.

Impaired driving, also known as a DUI or driving under the influence, can result in injury or death when the driver causes an accident with another car, hits a pedestrian, or is involved in an accident that causes harm to individuals inside and/or outside the car.

Impaired Driving in Edmonton

In Edmonton, and throughout Canada, impaired driving charges can be laid if a person gets behind the wheel with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher. When you’re arrested for impaired driving causing serious injury or death, you will receive harsher penalties than someone who has just been arrested for driving while impaired. These are some of the potential penalties that can arise from an impaired driving charge:

            Loss of License

As a result of the combination of the Criminal Code of Canada and Alberta Legislation, your ability to operate a motor vehicle is suspended at the roadside immediately. This can affect your everyday life, making it harder to perform daily tasks and even get to work. In some cases, an impaired driving charge can result in job loss. The duration of the suspension will depend upon the severity of the crime; impaired driving causing injury can result in a 10 year suspension, while impaired driving causing death can lead to permanent suspension. 

            Prison Sentence

Impaired driving offences that result in injury or death can carry lengthy prison sentences. When impaired driving causes bodily harm, you may receive up to 10 years in prison, while impaired driving causing death can lead to life imprisonment. Canadian courts have determined that a six (6) year period of imprisonment is appropriate for a first-time offender convicted of impaired driving causing death,

            Criminal Record

You will have a permanent criminal record. This could affect prospective jobs and travel.


If someone is injured or killed, you may be sued. People injured in an accident in which   you were driving impaired may try to sue you for medical bills or even loss of income if       they're unable to work as a result of their injuries. If a person dies in an accident in which you were driving impaired, their family may sue you for funeral costs along with pain and suffering.

Haryett & Company has been serving the Edmonton area for over 20 years, providing legal representation for offenders. With our proven record of success, you can count on us to fight for you in court. Mistakes can be made during police investigations that can affect your legal case. From mistakes with blood-alcohol tests and arrest procedure, a lot can happen before you actually reach the courtroom. The lawyers at Haryett will work to make sure you receive a fair trial. Contact us today.

What You Need to Know About DUI Charges for Marijuana

Substances of many type can impair your ability to walk, talk, perform normally, and complete everyday activities, including driving. Impairment can be caused by substances on all levels, including 'soft drugs' like marijuana. Driving while under the influence of marijuana can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol and, like alcohol, although the use of cannabis in Canada is legal, driving under the influence is still illegal.

Marijuana can negatively impact motor skills, slow reaction times, hinder concentration, and impair your ability to make accurate or snap decisions, thus increasing the chances of a collision. Ideally, you should never drive under the influence of marijuana, but if you do, there may be some consequences for this mistake. Drivers who are caught driving impaired are usually arrested and charged with driving while impaired or under the influence (DUI). If you’re charged with a DUI, you could face a major fine, license suspension, or even jail time. When charged with a DUI, you need the help of an experienced lawyer, one who can help you achieve the best possible outcome.  

How Law Enforcement Detects Drug-Impaired Drivers

It has long been illegal to operate a motor vehicle while impaired by drug or alcohol. However, the recent legalization of recreational marijuana use in Canada has reinforced law enforcement’s efforts in detecting drug impaired drivers. Police officers are, and have been, trained to detect impaired driving by drug through the use of Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) and Standard Field Sobriety Testing (SFST) evaluations. However, after the legalization of recreational cannabis, new legislation was introduced to expand and improve testing and recognition.. Parliament has approved drug screening devices that detect the recent presence of THC from cannabis, and the use of methamphetamine and cocaine. It also allows officers to perform a SFST and/or demand an oral fluid sample if there are reasonable grounds, such as the driver is visibly agitated, shaky, unfocused, and basically appears to be 'high.'

Penalties for Drug-Impaired Driving Charges

Drug-impaired driving is considered a serious offence and the penalties for the charge range from minor to major. Depending on the province and the level or degree of offence, the penalties could range from a minimum fine to imprisonment. The seriousness of your penalty also depends on the level of THC found in your blood. Having less than 5 nanograms (ng) of THC per ml of blood isn’t considered a serious offence, and thus, will carry less serious consequences. On the other hand, having 5 or more nanograms of THC per ml of blood is considered the most serious offence. This represents severe impairment. When combined with alcohol, 50mg or more of alcohol per 100 ml of blood and 2.5 ng or more of THC per ml of blood is considered severe drug impairment. If high levels of THC are found in your blood, you could be criminally charged and subject to an array of penalties. These possible penalties for drivers in Alberta include:

  • First offence: minimum $1,000 fine, mandatory driving course, 90-day license suspension, one-year participation in the mandatory ignition interlock program, 3-day vehicle seizure, in addition to having a criminal record and increased insurance premiums

  • Second offence: Mandatory minimum 30-day imprisonment, minimum two-year driving prohibition, mandatory participation in the ignition interlock program, mandatory driving course, in addition to having a criminal record and increased insurance premiums,

  • Third offence and beyond: mandatory minimum 4-month imprisonment, minimum three-year driving prohibition, mandatory participation in the ignition interlock program, mandatory driving course, in addition to having a criminal record and increased insurance premiums

In response to the legalization of cannabis, the Government of Canada has significantly increased the nature and scope of police powers to investigate. The authority granted has not been tested in court for its constitutionality and is akin to entering uncharted waters. Therefore, it is essential that you contact an experienced DUI lawyer to discuss your options.

No matter the seriousness of the consequences, a DUI charge and/or conviction can be life altering. It’s something that should be taken seriously at all stages, which is why you should hire an experienced DUI lawyer as early in the process as possible. An experienced lawyer will ensure your charges are valid, make sure any invalid charges are immediately dropped, create a strong defense, file the proper paperwork and/or motions, expedite the trial process, and ensure you’re treated fairly and given the most lenient sentence.

If you've been charged with a DUI for marijuana, or other drug, or alcohol, call us today.

Rachel GrierDUI Lawyer
Refusing a Breathalyzer: Impaired Driving Lawyers, Edmonton

Learn what will happen after you've refused a breathalyzer test from some of the most experienced impaired driving lawyers Edmonton offers.

Breath testing can take one of two forms: roadside testing and evidentiary testing.

Roadside testing is used by the police when there are insufficient signs or indicia of impairment in the ability to drive to warrant an arrest. The driver is NOT entitled to speak with a lawyer at this stage. If the driver provides a sample of breath, it will analyze as either a ‘Pass’, which has no consequences, a ‘Warn’, which has no criminal consequences but consequences under provincial legislation, or a ‘Fail’, which allows the police to continue their investigation and obtain further breath samples at the police station after the driver has had a chance to call a lawyer. These further breath samples are designed to determine the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or blood alcohol level of suspected drunk drivers.

A failure or refusal to blow at the roadside, or at the police station, is a criminal offence and has the same consequences as a failed breath test or being provably impaired. If a demand is made for you to give a sample of your breath, COMPLY.

If you refuse a breath test, in additional to the refusal charge, you could still be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or while impaired. If this happens, you will need the assistance of an experienced DUI lawyer. Experienced lawyers are the only ones who can unravel the complicated nature of such a case. Furthermore, there are some facts about refusing a breathalyzer screening that you should know.

Penalties for Refusing Roadside Testing or Evidentiary Testing

Once again, if you fail to comply with breath testing, you will be charged with a criminal offence and subject to the same penalties as DUI. These penalties can include:

  • A permanent criminal record

  • Fines of at least $2,000

  • License suspension of at least one year

  • Conditional probation

  • Enrollment in a program for license reinstatement

  • Possible jail time of at least 30 days on a second offence and at least four months on a third or higher offence

  • High risk insurance rates for a three to five-year period

  • Permanent license revocation in extreme cases involving multiple related prior convictions

The type and severity of your penalties will depend on your past record and the experience of your lawyer. Thus, the more DUI offences you’ve committed and the less experienced your lawyer, the worse the penalty. Of course, one of the best impaired driving lawyers Edmonton has to offer, like those at our firm, will fight to ensure you receive the lowest sentence possible.

How an Experienced DUI Lawyer Can Help

No matter the crime you’re accused of, your rights as a resident of Canada are always protected. And these rights are best defended by an experienced lawyer. An experienced impaired driving lawyer will be well-versed on DUI laws and court proceedings and be the most capable of providing a prompt, organized, and thorough defence. He/she will know how to approach your case and find difficulties with the police investigation that could result in an acquittal or the charges being withdrawn. Also, lawyers at Haryett & Company may even be able to establish that your refusal was warranted in the circumstances.

They will also ensure that you’re treated fairly by law enforcement, including investigating if proper procedures were followed during the investigation. If any violations are found, the DUI and/or refusal charges may be withdrawn or reduced. Although these sorts of cases can be complicated, they’re more likely to have favorable outcomes with an experienced defence team at the helm. A team like Haryett & Company will leave no stone unturned and, where possible, will work to establish that your refusal was backed by sufficient reason.

Have you received an impaired driving charge? Contact our office today: (780) 426-5317.

Shannon Routley
Protect Your Rights Following a Domestic Assault Charge

Assault involves physical attacks or hitting, physical threats of harm, unwanted physical contact, and physical contact of any sort without consent. Domestic assault involves committing a violent act against a, current or former spouse or sexual partner, or a family member., A violent act that isn’t committed in self-defence or defence of property can have serious consequences. If you’re accused of committing a violent act such as domestic assault, an experienced assault lawyer can help defend your rights and get your case settled favorably. There are, however, some facts you should know about domestic assault, including how an experienced defence lawyer can help you.

Domestic Assault Charges Can Carry Severe Consequences

Domestic assault is a serious offence that carries severe penalties in some cases. Here are some basic guidelines for penalties in domestic assault convictions:

  • A conditional sentence or house arrest

  • A custodial sentence

  • Fines

  • Travel limitations

  • A permanent criminal record

  • Restrictive probation conditions

  • long term ‘no contact order’ with the victim

The type and severity of penalties rendered against a convicted individual depends on how the Crown proceeds. The Crown may proceed ‘Summarily’ or ‘By Way of Indictment’, which is determined by the severity of the action and any prior similar offences. Furthermore, criminal proceedings against an individual accused of assault are may proceed even if the victim (or complainant) wants to drop the charges. The Crown may proceed with your case even if the matter is settled between you and your spouse, family member, roommate, etc. Therefore, depending on how the Crown proceeds, you may be subject to certain penalties.

Penalties for Domestic Assault

Once again, the possible penalties you may face in your domestic assault case will depend on how the Crown proceeds. Although the proceedings are different, the types of penalties for proceeding ‘Summarily’ or ‘By Way of Indictment’ are the same. The definitions for these types of proceedings and convictions; however, are different. In fact, they each have three distinctive characteristics. For example, summary proceedings and convictions 2) encompass the most minor offences in the Canadian Criminal Code, and 3) usually only carry penalties of six months of jail time, $5,000 in fines, or both. On the other hand, proceedings by indictment 1) are more serious than summary offenses and involve harsher penalties, 2) involve the prosecution of accused individuals with a possible trial by jury, and 3) include penalties that range from a minimum sentence of absolute discharge to a maximum five-year custodial sentence. The possible conviction and penalties you face will depend on your lawyer’s experience. If you choose any experienced assault lawyer Edmonton offers from Haryett & Company, you can rest assured that we will fight so that you receive the best possible sentence. Our expertise and dedication to our clients maximize a favorable outcome.

How an Experienced Lawyer Can Help

An experienced domestic assault lawyer can be there to make sure your rights are defended in court and. He/she will ensure relevant evidence is collected, proper witnesses are interviewed and presented, and pertinent motions, documents, etc. are filed. Additionally, he/she will help to clear you of any false accusations and help protect you against law enforcement intimidation. Most importantly, he/she will have knowledge of assault laws and court procedures. This knowledge will help ensure you receive a fair trial and a lesser sentence. Lesser sentences could come in several forms, including:

  • A conditional discharge without a criminal record

  • A monetary fine

  • An intermittent sentence, time served during weekends

  • Conditional sentence with community service

  • A suspended sentence with probation

In some cases, a peace bond agreement may be available. Lighter, first time offences can be eligible for a peace bond, which is an agreement between the defendant and Her Majesty to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. Upon entry into such an agreement, the Crown will withdraw the criminal charges, absolve the accused of any guilt, and set forth certain conditions, such as doing no harm or having no contact with the complainant for the duration of bond (typically 6 to 12 months). At the prosecutor’s discretion, a domestic assault case can be settled with a peace bond.

If you've been charged with domestic assault, contact us right away. We will work to ensure your rights are protected!

Shannon Routley
An Experienced DUI Lawyer is Even More Important When You've Had Multiple DUI Charges

Driving under the influence or impairment (DUI) can be devastating in many ways. Not only is it dangerous to everyone on the road, it’s rife with serious consequences. DUI charges carry severe penalties, including license suspension, large fines, and possible jail time. The severity of these penalties is magnified in cases where there have been multiple DUIs. Not only do multiple DUIs put you at risk of receiving the harshest penalties, but it can also make your case more sensitive and complicated. If you have multiple DUI charges, you should only be represented by an experienced DUI or impairment lawyer.

General Penalties for DUI Charges

Although every DUI case is different, there are some general penalty guidelines. These guidelines are as follows:

  • First DUI offence: Mandatory minimum one-year license suspension, fines, and/or up to two years of jail time

  • Second DUI offence: Mandatory minimum two-year license suspension, 30 days of jail time, and a possibility of up to two years of jail time

  • Third DUI and beyond: Mandatory minimum three-year license suspension, , four months of jail time and a possibility of up to two years of jail time

Please note that an offender with multiple related convictions may face more serious consequences to his or her driving privileges and a lengthier maximum sentence of incarceration. Also, the above guidelines do not apply in the event of an alcohol related accident involving bodily harm or death.

These penalties may seem harsh or even frightening, but they don’t apply in every case – they’re simply basic guidelines, and they vary depending upon the severity and details of your case. Moreover, the most experienced DUI or impaired lawyers Edmonton has to offer, like the lawyers at Haryett & Company, will work to ensure you receive the lowest penalty possible.

Advantages of Hiring an Experienced DUI Lawyer in Multiple DUI Circumstances

If you have past DUIs and new related charges, hiring an experienced impairment lawyer is your best option. An experienced lawyer offers several advantages. First, he/she will know the legal standards, procedures, and rules associated with DUI cases. They will also be able to identify any falsehoods or errors in your case, especially those related to sobriety or breath tests and blood draws. This ability often coincides with specialized knowledge of substance-detection technology and DUI laws. Experienced lawyers also take immediate action, as they know which legal forms, motions, etc. to file. Plus, the more experience your lawyer has, the faster your case moves along and, often, the lesser the sentence you receive. In some cases, your lawyer may even be able to have the case dismissed.

If you've been charged with impaired driving, contact our experienced team at Haryett & Company today: (780) 426-5317.

Shannon Routley
When You Might Need an Experienced White-Collar Crime Lawyer

White-collar crimes are non-violent offenses committed for monetary gain. They typically involve fraudulent conduct aimed at government entities, financial institutions, private or public businesses, charity organizations, bank customers, and regular consumers. When an individual is caught committing these types of acts, law enforcement will charge the liable person(s) with a specific white-collar crime. Although they may seem less serious, white-collar crime charges can carry stiff penalties, and these possible penalties include, significant fines, prison time, or both. You can and should hire an experienced lawyer who will work to determine the likelihood of conviction or success at trial, and if a finding of guilt is inevitable, help keep the consequence to a minimum. First, here's a look at some of these types of crimes:

Common Types of White-Collar Crimes

If you’re charged with a white-collar crime, you should educate yourself on the charges and what they entail. This includes understanding the laws related to the crime you’re accused of, as well as knowing the different types of white-collar crime that exist. Common white-collar crimes include:

  • Mortgage fraud

  • Issuance of worthless checks

  • Theft

  • Tax fraud

  • Bribery

  • Forgery and counterfeiting

  • Insurance fraud

  • Accounting fraud

  • Computer-related crimes

  • Scheme to defraud

  • Financial abuse of an elderly person

  • Healthcare fraud

  • Misuse of public office

  • Embezzlement

  • Racketeering

To strengthen your defense, an experienced lawyer will ensure you’re educated about the crime with which you have been charged, as well as any related crimes. It’s possible, and sometimes happens that accused persons are charged with multiple crimes of a similar nature. For example, someone charged with embezzlement may also be charged with theft, etc.

Fighting False Accusations

Of course, being accused of a crime isn’t an indication of guilt; every day, people are falsely accused of committing crimes. In cases where an individual is falsely or mistakenly accused of a white-collar crime, defendants are known as incidental actors. Incidental actors are unwittingly a part of a fraudulent scheme, meaning they didn’t knowingly participate in or create this scheme. False accusations usually result from fraudulent documents that bear the accused’s signature. Some people are also falsely accused by business partners (ex or current), employers, employees, co-workers, or even friends. These types of allegations, however, can be fought and disproved with the help of an experienced fraud lawyer. Edmonton men and women accused of white-collar crimes turn to the defence team at Haryett and Company.

Understanding Aggravated White-Collar Crimes

There are a number of circumstances which can aggravate the sentence on a fraud charge, including the relationship between the parties, the number of parties affected, the age of the affected parties, and whether the affected parties come from a disadvantaged or vulnerable group within society. Repeated fraudulent conduct, duration of the fraudulent conduct, and sophistication of the fraudulent conduct can also lead to an aggravated or higher sentence. If you’re charged with an aggravated white-collar crime, you could face exorbitant fines and a strong possibility of prison time. A normal charge could quickly become an aggravated one, especially if you don't have the help of an experienced white-collar crime lawyer. Not only can a proven lawyer prevent this unfortunate circumstance, he/she can seek to reduce the number of charges you are facing and help you receive the lowest sentence in the circumstances.

If you have been charged with a white-collar crime, contact the legal team at Haryett and Company now. We bring years of experience and a proven track record to provide you with the quality, personalized defence you require.

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Why You Need a Proven and Experienced Drug Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal drug charges can be distressing, but having the support of a good legal team can improve the outcome of your situation. An experienced drug defence lawyer brings legal expertise, will take care of all the paperwork, pleading, and trial details while navigating around legal obstacles. An experienced lawyer at the helm will provide you with an understanding of your jeopardy and peace of mind, while working to minimize the consequences of your actions.

When faced with drug charges, these are some of the many reasons you should only hire an experienced drug lawyer:

Provide Expert Knowledge of Drug Laws

Generally, experienced drug defence lawyers are experts on drug-related laws. This includes knowing what penalty accompanies each type of drug offense. Expert knowledge of drug offenses and their penalties could help ensure you’re given a fair trial and sentence. Whether the charge is minor or major, the penalty will match. In some cases, the sentence may be better than expected, as legal expertise can improve the likelihood of a more lenient penalty. It doesn’t matter if you’re facing a fine or jail. Your lawyer will also have knowledge of the prosecutors and judges that may try your case. Just remember, the more knowledge your lawyer has, the stronger your defence will be.

Mitigate Risks by Acting Immediately

It is important to get a lawyer involved as quickly as possible after you have been charged. After being hired, an experienced drug lawyer will take charge of your case. A proven lawyer knows that the sooner you act, the better your chances of winning. In some instances, moving at a snail’s pace gives the prosecution time to strengthen their case. In other circumstances, a lawyer that acts promptly, can mitigate risk. Initial, quick action from your defence team is also an indicator of how they might handle future obstacles. Handling obstacles promptly at any point in the legal process can also help mitigate risks and increase your chances of winning or receiving a more lenient sentence.

Perform Damage Control

Damage control goes along with mitigating risks. Without a lawyer, you’re constantly at risk of causing damage. Intimidation from law enforcement can make you say the wrong thing or even provide false information. Experienced counsel will prohibit such intimidation, prevent leading questions, or advise you on how to answer questions. They will also stop you from making uninformed, coerced, or impulsive decisions, as every decision must go through your counsel. Making the right decisions will ensure your case is stable and stays on equal ground with the prosecution. Furthermore, your lawyer can prevent you from incurring additional false charges.

Delegate Tasks to a Legal Defence Team

To provide the best representation and build your case, your lawyer will bring a legal defence team. Pertinent tasks are delegated to this team, including:

  • Finding key witnesses

  • Gathering relevant evidence

  • Preparing certain court documents

  • Cross-examining witnesses

  • Finding expert witnesses

This team will also ensure regular and expert witnesses are prepared to provide testimony that will strengthen your case or undermine the prosecution’s case. Additionally, an experienced defence lawyer and team will design a unique strategy to fit your drug charge. A strong, unique strategy could include preparing you for trial, conducting an independent investigation, and making settlements or negotiations before trial.

When you've been charged with a drug-related offence, don't delay! Hire an experienced drug lawyer. Edmonton men and women turn to Haryett & Company for their legal expertise and commitment to effectively defending their clients. Call now for more information.

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