Sexual assault lawyer Edmonton

BW Law provides expert legal defence for individuals facing sexual assault charges in Edmonton. Our experienced sexual assault lawyers handle each case with discretion, compassion, and a strong understanding of Canadian law to help protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.

Over 350+ sexual assault cases successfully defended across Alberta

Established credibility and strong relationships with courts, tribunals, and Crown prosecutors

Led by senior defence lawyers with 20+ years of combined courtroom experience

What happens If you’re convicted of sexual assault in Alberta?

A sexual assault conviction can have severe and long-lasting consequences. Under Alberta law, the penalties for sexual assault can include imprisonment, mandatory registration on the national sex offender registry, and lifelong reputational damage. The severity of the sentence depends on various circumstances, including the nature of the assault and whether there are aggravating or mitigating factors.

How our sexual offences lawyer can help you

Thorough Case Evaluation

We begin by reviewing all the evidence against you. Our sexual assault lawyers scrutinize every detail, identifying potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case. This includes analyzing whether there was a reasonable expectation of consent or whether gestures accompanying the act may have led to misunderstandings.

Strategic Negotiations

Our dedicated team of sexual assault lawyers uses the insights from the case evaluation to negotiate with the Crown prosecutor. Whether seeking a favourable plea deal or the dismissal of sexual assault charges, we work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for you.

Court Representation

When your case goes to court, we represent you with professionalism and confidence. We protect your Charter rights and ensure that any weaknesses in the Crown's case are challenged.

Legal Support and Guidance Throughout the Process

Throughout the legal process, we offer trusted representation and expert legal advice. We guide you in understanding your rights, keeping you informed, and helping you make confident decisions as your case progresses.

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Accused of sexual assault? Get strategic legal support now

If you’ve been charged with sexual assault or are facing a sexual offence, contact our experienced team today. We’ll review your case, explain your rights under the Criminal Code, and help you navigate the criminal charge process. Don’t risk a permanent criminal record; get the expert legal support you need today.

Penalties for a sexual assault conviction in Alberta

In Alberta, a conviction for sexual assault carries serious consequences. The severity of the penalty depends on factors such as the nature of the assault, prior criminal history and whether there were aggravating factors.

Imprisonment

Depending on the circumstances, sexual assault convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, ranging from months to several years.

Sex Offender Registry

Convicted individuals are required to register with the national sex offender registry for 10, 20 years, or life.

Lifetime Criminal Record

A sexual assault conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect future employment, travel, and housing opportunities.

Fines and Restitution

Courts may impose financial penalties, including fines or restitution payments to the victim, as part of the sentencing.

Parole and Probation

Following imprisonment, individuals may face parole or probation with strict conditions, including reporting requirements and limited freedoms.

Lifetime Supervision Orders

In high-risk cases, courts may impose long-term or lifetime supervision orders to monitor the individual’s behaviour post-release.

Why clients trust BW Law with their sexual assault charges

Personalized Defence Strategy

Our sexual assault lawyers in Edmonton help you understand your rights and use the details of your case to craft a tailored defence strategy.

Reputation for Delivering Favourable Results

With 20+ years of combined experience in defending against sexual assault offences, our team can defend your integrity and protect your reputation.

Support Throughout the Process

From the moment you are accused of sexual assault until the case is resolved, we provide legal support and guidance.

Expert Knowledge of Sex Crimes

Our team stays updated on the latest legal developments and defence strategies related to sexual assault. This ensures we provide the most effective representation.​

Accessible Team Of Sexual Offence Lawyers

We understand the severity of sexual assault charges. Our team of criminal defence lawyers is available 24/7 to provide legal advice when you need it.

Compassionate Representation

We treat all clients with the respect, compassion, and understanding they deserve.

Our team of experienced criminal defence lawyers

Danielle Boisvert

Danielle Boisvert

Danielle is a leading sexual assault defence lawyer with a focus on protecting the rights of accused individuals. With 15+ years of experience, she has a proven track record handling complex and sensitive cases involving sexual offences, using her deep knowledge of criminal law and client-centred approach.

Anny Wang

Anny Wang

Anny’s comprehensive experience with sexual offence cases, from initial investigation to court representation, makes her a trusted advocate for clients charged with sexual assault. Her dedication to thorough preparation and client education empowers clients through every stage of the criminal justice process.

Hear from clients we defended through sexual assault offences

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Book your private case review with Edmonton sexual assault lawyer

Before you speak to police or respond to any allegations, consult with our legal team. In your private case review, we’ll assess the facts, explain the potential consequences, and outline a strategy tailored to your situation. It’s your chance to move forward with clarity—and with trusted defence counsel beside you at every step.

What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault is defined as any non-consensual sexual contact or unwanted sexual activity, regardless of the relationship between the parties. It is a serious criminal offence under Canadian law, and accusations can result in severe consequences. Sexual assault can include, but is not limited to:

  • Non-consensual sexual touching
  • Sexual assault with a weapon
  • Aggravated sexual assault, which may result in injury or endangerment
sexual assault lawyer near me

Types of sexual offences under the Canadian criminal code

Sexual Interference

Sexual interference involves inviting, inciting, or pressuring a young person under 16 to engage in sexual touching. The Criminal Code in Canada states that individuals aged 16 to 17 cannot legally consent to someone in a position of authority over them.

Sexual Exploitation

Sexual exploitation refers to the abuse of a position of power or authority to manipulate someone to engage in sexual activity with someone vulnerable or unable to give informed consent. Sexual exploitation may include sex trafficking and online exploitation.

Sexual Luring

Sexual luring involves manipulating, initiating, or inciting sexual activity with individuals 16 or younger. At BW Law, an experienced sex crime lawyer will develop a robust strategy to defend your rights and clear your name.

Voyeurism

Voyeurism involves secretly observing or recording someone in a private setting for a sexual purpose. This is considered a criminal offence under Canadian law.

Sexual Assault With a Weapon

Refers to the act of sexually assaulting someone while using, threatening to use, or displaying a weapon. A sexual assault lawyer can help you understand and navigate these charges.

Sexual Assault Causing Bodily Harm

Sexual assault causing bodily harm involves non-consensual sexual activity forced upon someone in a manner that results in physical injury, including cuts, bruises, broken bones, etc.

Sexual Invitation to Touching

Invitation to touching is a criminal offence that involves inviting or inciting a person under the age of 16 to touch the body of another person for sexual gratification or arousal.

Child Pornography

These charges are legally, factually, and technically complex. Charges may include downloading, viewing or watching child pornography or capturing sexual images or audio of a person under 18.

Safeguard your future with professional legal support

Schedule your free 30-minute consultation with a skilled sexual offence lawyer today. Get clear, expert advice tailored to your situation, and take the first step toward protecting your future.

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How is consent legally defined in Canada?

Consent is a fundamental element in sexual assault cases. Legally, consent is a voluntary, affirmative agreement to engage in sexual activity, communicated clearly between all parties involved. It cannot be obtained under duress or when a person is incapacitated.

Situations where consent is not obtained

In Canadian law, consent is not obtained in several circumstances. These include, but are not limited to:

When the individual is underage, Consent cannot be legally obtained from individuals who are below the age of consent (16 years old in Canada), with exceptions based on close-in-age provisions.

Coercion or Threats: If a person is coerced, threatened, or manipulated into agreeing to sexual activity, consent is invalid.

Incapacitation: If a person is unconscious, intoxicated, or otherwise incapable of understanding the situation, they cannot legally consent.

Abuse of Power: In cases where there is a significant power imbalance (e.g., between a teacher and student, or employer and employee), consent may not be valid if the dominant party takes advantage of the vulnerable position of the other.

Mistaken Belief: Even if the accused person believes they had consent, the law will not uphold that belief if it is unreasonable or wrong. For example, thinking that someone consented due to previous sexual activities does not automatically provide consent for subsequent acts.

Successful Case Summaries

Our client was charged with a historical sexual assault dating back to the mid-2010’s. The client elected to have his trial with a jury as we identified major inconsistencies in the complainant’s multiple statements to police and other people over the years. After the complainant testified at trial and these inconsistencies came to light, Danielle Boisvert convinced the prosecutor to issue a Stay of Proceedings before the end of the trial, and before our client had to take the stand to testify.

Our client was charged with indecent exposure to someone under the age of 16 after two complainants captured the incident on video and posted the footage online. Anny Wang provided context for the offence to the Crown Prosecutor and the Court: that the client was unaware that one of the complainants was underage, that he lacked legal sophistication and had trouble with information processing, and that he had the support of his family and the community. Anny Wang negotiated an agreement with the Crown prosecutor for a guilty plea to the lesser and included offence of indecent act, allowing our client to avoid the mandatory minimum jail term for indecent exposure to someone under the age of 16 and instead to serve his sentence in the community.

Our client was charged with a sexual assault by a neighbour, who claimed our client had followed her into her apartment and attempted to kiss and grope her during a fire alarm. She further stated that a firefighter nearby would have seen a portion of the sexual assault. Our client adamantly denied the allegations and the matter was set for trial. Danielle Boisvert discovered that the neighbour suffered from mental health issues that caused her to call 911 and make false complaints on a regular basis. Danielle contacted the Crown prosecutor, who was able to verify this information and re-interview the firefighter at Danielle’s request. Through several discussions with the prosecutor, Danielle convinced the prosecutor to withdraw the charge a few weeks before the scheduled trial date.

Our client was charged with two separate sets of sexual assault charges and was facing a penitentiary jail sentence if convicted of either set of charges. After substantial delays on the part of the prosecutor’s office and court scheduling, Danielle Boisvert applied for and was granted a Stay of Proceedings to address her client’s right to a trial within a reasonable time under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The second set of charges proceeded to a Judge Alone trial in the Court of King’s Bench. At the conclusion of Danielle’s cross-examination of the complainant, the prosecutor offered a Peace Bond with no contact for one year. The rest of the trial did not proceed and all charges were withdrawn.

Our client was charged with sexual assault by a woman he met on sugardaddy.com. The matter was set for a 3-day jury trial. After extensive negotiations with the Crown prosecutor, including making the difficult strategic decision to disclose defence evidence to the prosecution, Danielle Boisvert convinced the prosecutor to enter a Stay of Proceedings before trial.

Our client, a youth, was charged with sexual assault on another teenager and a two-day trial was scheduled. After extensive negotiation with the Crown Prosecutor, Danielle Boisvert secured a withdrawal of the charge for an 18-month peace bond. The young person was extremely happy to avoid the stress of a trial.

Our client was charged with sexual interference against his teenage niece, arising from a family gathering over the Christmas holidays. On the day of the scheduled preliminary inquiry, the Crown prosecutor finally agreed that the complainant had obviously exaggerated and/or lied in her statement to police. The matter was resolved with a Peace Bond, which guaranteed the withdrawal of the criminal charge and avoided both a trial and a criminal record for our client.

Our client was charged with sexual assault and assault by choking. During cross-examination of the complainant during the judge and jury trial, Anny Wang was able to establish that the complainant’s version of events was inconsistent with earlier accounts as well as the accountants of other witnesses. When Anny Wang pressed the complainant on her continuously evolving version of events, the complainant again changed her recollection on the stand. The jury acquitted our client after a brief deliberation.

Our client had elected to set a jury trial on a historical sexual assault in Red Deer. The trial issues focused on the motives of the complainant to fabricate her allegations, which were to remove our client’s children from his care, and our client’s denial of those allegations. Danielle Boisvert conducted the week-long trial, in which our client testified in his defence, and the jury returned a verdict of Not Guilty.

 Our client was charged with sexual assault in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and entered a plea of Not Guilty. On the eve of trial, the prosecutor revealed that there was missing evidence, which caused the trial to be delayed. Danielle Boisvert obtained a stay of proceedings as a result of the delay and missing evidence.

Our client was charged with sexual assault and sexual interference of a young girl. Numerous defence witnesses observed our client and the complainant throughout the day of the incident and were able to account for all of their movements, disproving the allegations. Anny Wang engaged a private investigator to interview all of the defence witnesses and provided their recorded interviews to the Crown prosecutor. The matter was scheduled for a week-long trial. After the prosecutor reviewed the recorded interviews and cross-examined the defence witnesses, the prosecutor invited the court to dismiss all charges.

Our client was charged with historical allegations of sexual assault. Police issued a warrant for our client’s arrest but failed to execute the warrant for almost 9 months. Danielle Boisvert entered pleas of Not Guilty on behalf of our client and filed a Charter Notice regarding the delay of the trial beyond the R v Jordan deadlines. The prosecutor agreed that there was no justification for the police failing to take reasonable steps to locate the client to execute the warrant, and further agreed that the delay to the trial date was unreasonable. All charges were stayed.

Our client was charged with making child pornography for a comment he made on an adult-only dating application. After Danielle Boisvert engaged in extensive negotiations with the prosecutor, a plea negotiation was reached in which our client plead guilty to ‘distributing obscene materials’ and avoided jail time and avoided registration on the Sexual Offender Registry.

Our client was charged with sexual assault arising from of an encounter at a bar in a rural Alberta town. During cross-examination by Danielle Boisvert during trial, it became clear that the complainant did not remember the events of the night in question accurately, as compared to other evidence presented at trial by the prosecution. The judge found that the complainant’s evidence contained a plethora of inconsistencies and therefore unreliable. Our client was found Not Guilty at the end of the trial.

Our client was accused of sexually assaulting his partner after he decided to end the relationship. Our client wisely preserved all text communications between them before, during, and after the break-up. Danielle Boisvert used that communication to demonstrate to the Crown prosecutor the inaccuracy of the complainant’s police narrative. The Crown prosecutor agreed to a peace bond and withdrew the charge.

Schedule your confidential case review today

If you’ve been charged with sexual assault or are under investigation, you need immediate access to experienced legal counsel. At BW Law, your rights, reputation, and future are our priority. Start building your defence. Request your free private consultation below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I’ve been charged with sexual assault in Edmonton?

If you’re facing sexual assault charges, it’s crucial to contact an experienced sexual assault lawyer in Edmonton immediately. Your defence strategy should begin early, especially when the allegations involve sexual touching, sexual interference, or non-consensual intercourse. A skilled criminal defence lawyer can protect your rights throughout the criminal justice system.

At BW Law, our Edmonton sexual assault lawyers approach each case with a detailed, strategic defence. Whether you’re accused of major sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, or sexual exploitation, we analyze the facts, challenge unreliable testimony, and address claims of vitiated consent or mistaken belief. Our goal is to raise reasonable doubt and protect your future.

Yes. False allegations of sexual offences, including unwanted sexual contact or being labelled a sexual offender, can destroy lives. Our respected sexual assault lawyers know how to challenge the credibility of the evidence and present mitigating factors that support your version of events.

Yes. Allegations involving sexual activity, especially those linked to sexual purpose or bodily harm, are handled with the utmost discretion. At BW Law, your privacy is protected throughout the legal process. Our criminal lawyers and staff maintain full confidentiality while advocating for your best interests.

At BW Law, our team brings over 50 years of combined experience defending clients facing sexual assault charges. We’ve handled a wide range of cases, providing knowledgeable and compassionate representation every step of the way.