Julia Hunter

At the heart of the Calgary branch of Strategic Criminal Defence, my role as a criminal defence lawyer is shaped by a deep-seated commitment to justice and an intricate understanding of the criminal justice system. My journey has been anything but ordinary, crossing paths with both judiciary and prosecutorial realms before settling into the defence side of the law.

My path to criminal law advocacy was paved with diverse experiences, starting from my time within the Provincial Court of Alberta's chambers, through to the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service. These roles provided me with a privileged vantage point, offering a comprehensive grasp of court and prosecution operations that now inform my strategy in defending my clients.

Born in Calgary but not confined by its borders, my educational pursuits took me to the University of Victoria on Vancouver Island, where I delved into Gender Studies. This field ignited my passion for social and restorative justice, directing my attention to the complex interplay of power dynamics and their impact on diverse communities, particularly in relation to issues of race, class, sexuality, and mental health.

Returning to Calgary, I fortified my legal foundations with a Paralegal Diploma, followed by hands-on experience in the Provincial Court's Family & Youth division and later, within the Specialized Prosecutions Branch. These experiences deepened my understanding of criminal law's nuances, particularly its intersection with family law and youth matters.

My academic journey took a significant leap overseas to Queen’s University Belfast, where I earned my Law Degree with Honours. My time in Belfast was enriched by working with a human rights and criminal defence firm, alongside contributing to The Verdict, a publication that delves into legal and political issues.

Despite an opportunity to intern at the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service, where I conducted summary conviction trials under Crown Counsel's guidance, my heart was set on defence rather than prosecution. The insight gained from working closely with the prosecution has, paradoxically, become one of my greatest assets in defence.

Before joining the ranks of Strategic Criminal Defence, I was actively involved in high-profile defence cases, honing my skills in research, advocacy, and client-centered legal practice.

My approach to defence is unequivocally client-focused. I am dedicated to understanding your story, guiding you through the court's complexities with compassion and ensuring your dignity remains intact throughout the process.

My practice areas are broad, addressing everything from impaired driving and domestic violence to drug offences and young offender charges. As a member of the Law Society of Alberta and other legal associations, I am well-equipped and deeply committed to defending those in need.

In sum, my background, from exploring gender studies to navigating the legal landscapes of Canada and Northern Ireland, complements my legal practice. It equips me with a unique perspective and a robust skill set to advocate for you effectively within the criminal justice system.