Raymond Group Defence is a boutique criminal defence law firm based in Edmonton, Alberta, with offices in Edmonton and Whitecourt. We represent clients throughout Alberta in all types of criminal matters, including serious and complex prosecutions, bail proceedings, youth matters, traffic offences and wildlife prosecutions.
We are seeking an articling student with a genuine interest in criminal litigation and oral advocacy. This position offers substantial hands-on experience, regular courtroom exposure and close mentorship from experienced defence counsel.
This is not a primarily observational articling position. The successful candidate will attend court regularly, work directly with clients and assist counsel with files at every stage of the criminal process. Responsibilities and independence will increase throughout the articling term based on the student’s demonstrated ability and comfort level.
Criminal-law experience is an asset but is not required. More important are sound judgment, reliability, strong communication skills and a sincere desire to develop as an advocate.
Responsibilities
- Attend docket court in the Alberta Court of Justice in Edmonton and other locations throughout Alberta.
- Conduct bail hearings, guilty pleas, sentencings and appropriate trial matters under supervision and as permitted.
- Interview clients, obtain instructions and communicate with clients regarding the progress of their matters.
- Review and summarize disclosure, including police reports, witness statements and audio or video evidence.
- Conduct legal research and prepare legal memoranda, correspondence, court materials and written submissions.
- Assist counsel in preparing for trials, preliminary inquiries, sentencing hearings and pre-trial applications.
- Communicate professionally with Crown counsel, court staff, correctional institutions and other justice-system participants.
- Maintain organized and accurate files, limitation dates and court calendars.
- Travel to Whitecourt and other Alberta court locations when required.
- Perform other duties reasonably associated with a busy criminal litigation practice.
Qualifications
- Completion, or anticipated completion, of a Canadian JD or LL.B. degree, or an NCA Certificate of Qualification.
- Eligibility to article and register as a student-at-law with the Law Society of Alberta.
- Demonstrated interest in criminal law, litigation or oral advocacy.
- Strong legal research, writing and analytical skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and client-service skills.
- Ability to work independently while recognizing when guidance is required.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing deadlines.
- Professional judgment, discretion and respect for client confidentiality.
- A valid driver’s licence and access to a vehicle are preferred due to occasional travel requirements.
What we offer
- Meaningful and frequent courtroom experience.
- Direct mentorship from experienced criminal defence counsel.
- Exposure to files ranging from routine docket matters to serious and complex prosecutions.
- Opportunities to develop advocacy, negotiation, client-management and file-management skills.
- A modern, furnished office with free on-site parking.
- Shared access to experienced criminal-law support staff.
- Dental and extended health benefits.
- Casual dress when court or client obligations permit.
- Paid time off and flexibility for PREP requirements.
- Hybrid work arrangements where compatible with court, client and operational responsibilities.
- Potential consideration for an associate position following successful completion of articles, depending on performance and the firm’s needs.
Compensation
Salary is expected to be between $40,000 and $45,000 per year, depending on the successful candidate’s experience and qualifications.
How to apply
Applicants should submit the following materials:
- Cover letter;
- Résumé; and
- Law school transcripts.
Please combine the application materials into a single PDF and submit them to [email protected] with the subject line “Articling Student Application – [Applicant Name].”
We thank all applicants for their interest. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: $40,000.00-$45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
