The law of impaired driving in Canada is highly complex. For many people charged with this offence it will be their first exposure to the criminal justice system. It can be a bewildering and frightening experience, with consequences upon conviction that are serious to not only the person charged but their families as well. This web site provides a basic introduction to the law applicable to impaired driving cases, consequences of conviction, and finally some of the scientific principles behind forensic alcohol testing.
While impaired driving offences fall under the federal Criminal Code, and basic legal principles discussed in this web site are generally applicable across Canada, differences do exist from one province to the next. As well, provinces and territories have made laws about driver licensing that can vary considerably depending on where you live. The information provided in this site is specific to Alberta.
This web site is informational in nature and is not intended to provide legal advice or opinion. We attempt to keep the information on this site current and accurate but the reader should recognize that impaired driving law can change suddenly and dramatically as a result of a court’s decision or government policy. You should always get competent legal advice or representation if charged because, as the saying goes, the devil (and possibly your defence) is in the details.
This web site is sponsored by the law firm of Dawson Stevens & Shaigec, an Edmonton, Alberta based criminal law firm. If you wish to contact us for more legal information or assistance in relation to an impaired driving charge simply click on the “Need Help?” button.