LAA-26-56- Criminal Litigator

At Legal Aid Alberta, we believe everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial circumstances.

As a Criminal Litigator , you will be more than a lawyer. You will be a trusted advocate, a skilled courtroom professional, and a champion for individuals navigating the criminal justice system during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

This position offers an exceptional opportunity to build a sophisticated criminal law practice while making a meaningful difference in Alberta communities. Whether appearing at bail hearings, conducting trials, negotiating resolutions, or advising vulnerable clients, your work will have a direct impact on access to justice across the province.

If you are looking for a career that combines challenging litigation, professional growth, and genuine purpose while maintaining a genuine work-life balance, we invite you to join our team.

Who We Are As a publicly funded, non-profit organization, Legal Aid Alberta provides affordable legal services in family law, domestic violence, child welfare, immigration, and youth and adult criminal defense. We are Alberta-wide, with 300 staff and 1,200 private practice lawyers helping people overcome their legal challenges in more than 75 communities across the province.

A passionate advocate who thrives in the courtroom

Committed to fairness, dignity, and access to justice

Compassionate, client-centred, and culturally aware

Resilient and adaptable in a fast-paced environment

A collaborative team member who values mentorship and continuous learning

Motivated by meaningful work and public service

Reporting to the Legal Services Manager - Criminal Trial Group, some of the key responsibilities include:

Represent clients charged with criminal offences at all stages of the court process

Conduct bail hearings, pleas, sentencing hearings, trials, review matters, and appeals

Develop and execute effective litigation strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances

Provide practical, clear, and compassionate legal advice

Advocate for clients before the Alberta Court of Justice, Court of King's Bench, and appellate courts as required

Prepare legal arguments, applications, briefs, and supporting documentation

Negotiate effectively with Crown prosecutors and justice system partners

Build trust with clients from diverse backgrounds, including vulnerable and marginalized populations

Work collaboratively with colleagues, support staff, community agencies, and justice stakeholders

Maintain meticulous client files with attention to detail as it relates to time keeping, diarization and notation

Contribute to a culture of mentorship, learning, and professional excellence

Be prepared to travel on an ad hoc basis

Membership in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta, or eligibility for membership

Experience practicing exclusively criminal law for 2 years

Strong courtroom advocacy and negotiation skills

Excellent legal research, analytical, and writing abilities

Sound judgment, professionalism, and commitment to ethical practice

Ability to manage a busy and dynamic caseload

Experience representing clients from diverse backgrounds