Kiranpreet Cheema
Associate Lawyer
About Kiranpreet Cheema
I am a lawyer at Strategic Criminal Defence (an association of independent practices). I predominantly practice in the area of criminal defence law and Immediate Roadside Sanctions (“IRS”).
My passion for criminal law arose out of my career in journalism. Dealing with people and their problems comes naturally to me. I have seen the intricacy of life in proximity; thus, my approach to simplify the complex.
In the very first criminal file of my career, I met the Calgary Police Service head-on as the case involved a violation of my client’s Charter rights. The police eventually abandoned the criminal investigation against my client, leaving only a traffic infraction to contest. Naturally, we won that too!
As a Canadian of Indian descent, I possess an inherent sensitivity towards one’s struggles in a new country and the added stress that criminal charges may bring to one’s life. I often ask my clients to allow me to shoulder the stress for them so they can continue to focus on their lives. As your criminal defence lawyer, it would be my utmost duty to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the criminal process.
Once retained, I will tread the path of your criminal case with you and will be consistent, persistent, and resilient in my approach. I will work hard to resolve your file to your satisfaction. And if the resolution is not in your best interests, I will be ready to fight the good fight in Court to ensure that your rights are protected.
As an IRS lawyer, I have extensive experience helping Albertans navigate this new and evolving process. I thank my clients for giving me the opportunity to win some battles that at first blush seemed hopeless. Despite the bleak prospects, they put their trust in me, and we managed to lighten the seemingly dark path. We were able to win on unique grounds and set a precedent.
Notwithstanding the drastic limitations on Albertans’ rights and available defences in the administrative adjudication process, the integrity of the law must be maintained. I shall fight for that in every case.
Education, Awards, and Career Path
I obtained a Bachelor of Science, with a major in Electronics from India. Along the way, I received the following Distinctions and Awards:
- University Topper – Gold Medal
- National Debate Winner, India, 2007
- National Elocution Winner, India, 2007
- Youth Role Model Award, Vivekanand Study Circle, India
Following my undergraduate studies, I completed a post-graduate course in English Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, India. I was one of only forty students across India who made it to the final list.
One of the highlights of my Journalism career was being nominated for critically acclaimed news stories in Canada.
Most recently, I obtained a Bachelor of Law Degree (LLB) from Panjab University, India, in 2019 with the following distinctions:
- University top 3
During my articles, I worked under the direct guidance of Michael Oykhman and Ian Savage. In my professional legal career, I have successfully defended numerous clients on multiple criminal and IRS cases. I have only scratched the surface and am eager to help more.
How I can Help
If you have been charged criminally or have received an IRS, you can count on me. In the criminal context, you are innocent until proven guilty. Call me to discuss the process, procedures, and what to expect prior to or after your first Court date.
However, if you have received an IRS, the system presumes your guilt until you challenge the penalty and prove your case on a balance of probabilities. The burden is on you! As your lawyer, I will assist you in discharging this burden as I have done for countless IRS recipients.
Areas of Practice
- Domestic Assaults and Violent Crime
- Fraud Under
- Firearm Offences
- Drug Possession
- Impaired Driving and Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS)
- Theft, Mischief and Property Offences
- Provincial Traffic Violations
- Municipal Bylaw Infractions
- Young Offenders Charges
Memberships
- Law Society of Alberta
- Roster Lawyer, Legal Aid Alberta
- Calgary Defence Lawyers Association
- Calgary Bar Association
Education
- Bachelor of Science from GNDU, India (2007)
- Post Graduate Degree in English Journalism, Indian Institute of Mass Communication (2008)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Panjab University (2019)
