About us
Raymond Group Defence is a boutique criminal defence firm based in Edmonton, with an additional office in Whitecourt. We represent clients throughout Alberta in matters ranging from routine docket appearances to serious and complex criminal prosecutions. Our practice also includes youth matters, traffic and wildlife offences, and administrative driving proceedings.
Our firm is growing, and we are seeking an associate lawyer with a genuine interest in criminal litigation and oral advocacy. This position would be well suited to a junior or intermediate lawyer who wants meaningful courtroom experience, close mentorship and the opportunity to develop a substantial criminal defence practice.
Criminal-law experience is preferred but is not strictly required. We will consider a strong candidate from another litigation background, as well as a recently called lawyer with demonstrated advocacy ability and a serious interest in criminal defence.
The successful candidate will appear in court regularly, manage files with appropriate support and work directly with clients. The level of independence and complexity of assigned matters will reflect the candidate’s experience and demonstrated ability.
Responsibilities
- Manage criminal files from initial retainer through resolution or trial.
- Attend docket court in the Alberta Court of Justice and Court of King’s Bench.
- Conduct bail hearings, guilty pleas, sentencings, trials and other contested proceedings.
- Review disclosure and identify factual, evidentiary and Charter issues.
- Interview clients and witnesses, provide legal advice and obtain instructions.
- Conduct legal research and prepare correspondence, applications, written submissions and trial materials.
- Negotiate resolutions and early case-resolution positions with Crown counsel.
- Develop case strategies and prepare examinations, cross-examinations and oral submissions.
- Maintain organized files, limitation dates and court calendars.
- Travel to Whitecourt and other Alberta court locations when required.
- Assist with the supervision and mentorship of articling students where appropriate.
- Contribute to the continued development and growth of the firm.
Qualifications
- Membership in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta, or eligibility for immediate membership.
- Experience in criminal law or another litigation-focused practice is preferred.
- Strong interest in courtroom advocacy and criminal defence.
- Sound legal judgment and the ability to identify and analyze complex issues.
- Strong written and oral advocacy skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and client-service skills.
- Ability to manage files independently while collaborating with other lawyers and support staff.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing deadlines.
- Professionalism, discretion and respect for client confidentiality.
- A valid driver’s licence and access to a vehicle are strongly preferred.
What we offer
- Frequent and meaningful courtroom experience.
- A varied criminal caseload with opportunities to conduct trials and contested hearings.
- Direct mentorship from experienced criminal defence counsel.
- The opportunity to build and maintain an independent practice within an established firm.
- A modern, furnished private office.
- Shared access to experienced criminal-law support staff.
- Dental and extended health benefits.
- Free on-site parking.
- Paid vacation and professional-development opportunities.
- Casual dress when court and client obligations permit.
- Hybrid work arrangements where compatible with court, client and operational requirements.
- A collegial workplace that prioritizes professional development, autonomy and strong workplace culture.
Compensation
Compensation is expected to range from $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, existing practice and the preferred compensation structure.
The firm is open to discussing a base salary with performance incentives or an alternative fee-sharing arrangement for a candidate with an established practice. There is significant opportunity for the successful candidate to assume responsibility for a busy caseload and increase their compensation as their practice develops.
How to apply
Applicants should submit the following:
- Cover letter;
- Résumé; and
- References or a list of professional references.
Please send application materials in PDF format to [email protected] with the subject line “Associate Lawyer Application – [Applicant Name].”
All applications will be treated confidentially. We thank all applicants for their interest; only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: $60,000.00-$80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Mileage reimbursement
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
