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IMPAIRED DRIVING LAWYERS CALGARY
Seeking defense for impaired driving charges? Yanko Popovic Sidhu, an experienced impaired driving lawyer in Calgary, will support you every step of the way. Legal fees are only payable if compensation is recovered.
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Experience Handling in Impaired Driving Cases
Clients Assisted Across Alberta
Why Yanko Popovic Sidhu law firm
As Your Calgary Impaired Driving Lawyers
For over 40 years, Yanko Popovic Sidhu has represented clients facing impaired driving charges in Calgary. We’ve handled a wide range of cases—from breathalyzer refusals to drug-impaired driving charges and complex accident cases—with outcomes depending on the specific facts of each case. Led by David G. Yanko K.C., our impaired driving lawyers apply Alberta’s criminal and transportation safety laws to assist clients in understanding their options and protecting their legal rights.
Our experience is reflected in ongoing recognition, including Consumer Choice Awards in Calgary each year since 2014. From first-time offenses to serious cases involving accidents, our impaired driving case lawyers bring years of focused experience and a thorough, strategic approach to each matter. We offer contingency-style fee arrangements where permitted, meaning legal fees are payable only if results are achieved; disbursements and taxes may apply.
Meet Your Impaired Driving Lawyers In Calgary
Experienced Calgary lawyers ready to handle your impaired driving case with skill and timely attention:
David G. Yanko
K.C.
Brad Popovic
LL.B.
Herman S. Sidhu
LL.B.
Evelyn Jacobs
L.L.B.
Adam Alladin
J.D.
Deepak Sandhu
J.D.
Sumeet Sandhu
J.D.
Roger Dueck
J.D.
Balkar Gill
LL.B., LL.M.
Sanam Sekhon
L.L.B.
Rohan Makhani
L.L.B.
Scott Murphy
J.D., Student-at-Law
We assist in every impaired driving case in Calgary
If you’re facing impaired driving charges, our dedicated lawyers are here to assist you. We serve:
First-Time Offenders Seeking Legal Guidance
Charged with impaired driving for the first time? Our impaired driving lawyers work to address the potential impacts on your record, license, and future.
Cases Involving Breathalyzer or Blood Test Disputes
Were there issues with testing procedures? Our lawyers for impaired driving review whether proper protocols were followed and may challenge evidence where appropriate.
Individuals Facing License Suspension
Need to maintain your driving privileges? Our impaired driving lawyers in Calgary review available legal options related to license suspensions.
Anyone Facing Enhanced Penalties
Our impaired driving case lawyers handle aggravating factors like high BAC levels or accidents, and assist clients in navigating the resulting charges and penalties.
Client-Focused Success Stories
Impaired Driving Defense You Can Rely On
At Yanko Popovic Sidhu, our impaired driving lawyers in Calgary have assisted clients in navigating impaired driving charges across Southern Alberta.
Here are anonymized examples of legal approaches used under Alberta law:
Breathalyzer Evidence Challenge
A client was charged with impaired driving after a roadside stop showed a BAC above the legal limit. The arresting officer could not provide calibration and maintenance records for the device, which raised questions about the reliability of the evidence. Our impaired driving lawyers challenged the evidence under Section 258(1)(c) of the Criminal Code and Alberta’s Provincial Offences Procedure Act. In this instance, the charges were dismissed on the basis of evidence concerns and procedural issues, and the client’s driving record was preserved.
Medical Condition Defense
Our client, a diabetic, was charged with impaired driving after exhibiting symptoms resembling intoxication. Our impaired driving lawyers in Calgary obtained expert medical evidence explaining how hypoglycemia can present symptoms similar to impairment. Medical records and expert testimony were presented to support the position that the client was experiencing a medical emergency rather than impairment. By addressing the officer’s observations under Section 254 of the Criminal Code and relying on medical evidence, the matter was resolved without a conviction.
Drug-Impaired Driving Defense
A client faced charges for drug-impaired driving based on a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluation. Our impaired driving lawyers reviewed the DRE’s certification records and identified concerns relating to training and assessment procedures. We challenged the admissibility and reliability of the evidence under applicable provisions of the Criminal Code and relevant court decisions addressing DRE evidence. In that matter, the proceedings concluded with a resolution that avoided a criminal conviction. Past results are not necessarily indicative of future outcomes.
How Our Impaired Driving Lawyers Can Help
As experienced impaired driving lawyers in Calgary, we provide legal support for:
Evidence Analysis
Our impaired driving lawyers thoroughly investigate all evidence, from breathalyzer maintenance records to officer conduct during stops.
Defense Strategy Development
A lawyer for impaired driving develops tailored defense approaches based on your specific circumstances and case details.
License Protection
Our impaired driving lawyers work to help you maintain driving privileges important for work and family responsibilities.
How We handle Your Impaired Driving Case
Our criminal defense lawyers follow a structured legal process to handle claims:
Your impaired driving lawyer reviews your case details and immediate concerns—no cost, no obligation.
We carefully examine police reports, test records, and procedural documentation to identify potential issues or concerns.
Our impaired driving lawyer team develops and applies defense approaches tailored to your unique situation.
Whether through negotiation or courtroom representation, we advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process.
Why Trust Us
Why Trust Us As Your Impaired Driving Lawyers In Calgary
Choosing the right legal partner is essential when responding to impaired driving charges. Our experienced team is committed to providing individualized legal guidance and defence planning, ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout each stage of your case.
40+ Years of Experience
Decades assisting clients with impaired driving defense in Calgary, handling complex criminal defence cases.
No Fees unless compensation is recovered
Our impaired driving lawyers offer clear fee structures with no hidden costs, ensuring accessibility for clients.
Award-Recognized Service
Consumer Choice Awards since 2014 recognizing our criminal defence legal services.
Personalized Care
Responsive support and timely communication when you need it most, including weekends and holidays.
What Our Clients Say about us?
Frequently Asked Questions: Impaired Driving Cases In Alberta
What are the penalties for impaired driving in Calgary?
In Alberta, impaired driving penalties are severe and multi-layered. First offenses typically result in an immediate 90-day license suspension, followed by participation in the Ignition Interlock Program for one year. Criminal penalties include minimum $1,000 fines, potential imprisonment (especially with aggravating factors), and a criminal record. Additional consequences include mandatory education programs, significantly increased insurance rates, and vehicle seizure. Under the Provincial Administrative Penalties Act and Criminal Code of Canada, penalties increase dramatically for repeat offenders or cases involving accidents, high BAC levels, or the presence of minors. An impaired driving lawyer in Calgary can review the facts of your case, explain potential consequences, and advise you on available legal options.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in Calgary?
While you technically can refuse, it is generally not recommended, as refusal itself is a criminal offence under Section 320.15 of the Criminal Code, and can carry penalties similar to or greater than those for impaired driving. Alberta operates under implied consent principles through the Traffic Safety Act, meaning drivers are expected to comply with lawful roadside screening demands. Refusal can result in immediate administrative penalties, including licence suspension and vehicle seizure, as well as potential criminal charges. However, there may be limited circumstances where a refusal could be legally examined, such as certain medical conditions or procedural issues. An impaired driving lawyer in Calgary can review the facts of a specific situation and explain available legal options if a refusal has occurred.
How can an impaired driving lawyer help with my case in Calgary?
Will I lose my license immediately after an impaired driving charge in Calgary?
Yes, in Alberta, a driver’s licence suspension often occurs immediately following an impaired driving charge through the Administrative Licence Suspension (ALS) program under the Traffic Safety Act. In many cases, this involves a 90-day suspension, followed by a period during which driving may only be permitted with participation in the Ignition Interlock Program, subject to eligibility requirements.
An impaired driving lawyer in Calgary can explain the applicable appeal options and timelines, including the 7-day review period under Alberta’s administrative penalty framework. Legal counsel can also assist in navigating Alberta Transportation requirements related to licence reinstatement and interlock participation, helping you understand the steps required to regain driving privileges where permitted by law.
How does cannabis impaired driving testing work in Calgary?
Cannabis impaired driving enforcement in Calgary involves several testing methods. Police may conduct Standard Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) at the roadside to assess impairment. If cannabis use is suspected, officers may require an Approved Drug Screening Equipment (ADSE) oral fluid test to detect THC.
Depending on the circumstances, an individual may be arrested and evaluated by a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE), who performs a standardized multi-step assessment. In certain cases, blood samples may also be demanded. Under Alberta’s administrative regime and applicable Criminal Code of Canada provisions, specific THC concentration thresholds may trigger administrative or criminal consequences.
An impaired driving lawyer can review whether testing procedures were followed in accordance with legal requirements and assess how the evidence may affect the administrative or criminal aspects of a case.
Can I get an impaired driving charge reduced in Calgary?
In some cases, it may be possible to resolve impaired driving charges through alternative outcomes, depending on the facts of the case. An impaired driving lawyer in Calgary may review disclosure, testing procedures, and Charter considerations to assess available options, which can include discussions with the prosecution regarding potential resolutions permitted by law.
Outcomes depend on many factors, including the nature of the evidence, compliance with testing protocols, prior driving history, and whether aggravating circumstances are present. While no specific result can be guaranteed, legal representation can help ensure your rights are protected and that your matter is addressed in accordance with applicable legislation and court processes.
Drop by Our Downtown Calgary Office:
Protect Your Rights—Speak With an Impaired Driving Lawyer in Calgary
Seeking defence? Our impaired driving lawyers in Calgary provide legal representation to help you understand your rights, licence implications, and legal options. Request a free initial consultation to discuss your situation.