Khalid Akram, the founding criminal defence lawyer at Akram Law, is helping Calgary residents charged with impaired driving defend their rights and avoid lasting consequences. With Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) regime leading to automatic penalties before a court conviction, Akram urges individuals to act quickly and seek experienced legal representation within the critical seven-day appeal window.
Impaired driving laws in Alberta have become stricter in recent years, with roadside suspensions, fines exceeding $1,000, and the mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices now commonplace. Many drivers are unaware that these sanctions can be applied even without a criminal conviction. Akram Law is addressing this legal complexity head-on with customized defence strategies designed to challenge police procedures, test results, and Charter rights violations.
"Impaired driving cases are not as straightforward as they seem," said Khalid Akram, lead counsel at Akram Law. "We often find issues with breathalyzer calibration, procedural mistakes during traffic stops, or a failure to advise clients of their legal rights. These errors can make all the difference between a conviction and a dismissal."
With experience representing both first-time and repeat offenders, Akram tailors each defence based on the client’s background and the facts of the case. Defences may include challenging the reliability of blood alcohol or drug tests, citing medical conditions such as asthma or acid reflux, or demonstrating improper police conduct that infringes on a client's rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The stakes are especially high for commercial drivers and novice drivers under Alberta's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. For these individuals, even a small trace of alcohol can lead to immediate suspensions, career damage, and increased insurance premiums. Akram Law helps these clients navigate both the criminal process and the administrative appeal through SafeRoads Alberta.
In addition to representation in court, Akram Law provides guidance for filing timely appeals to the IRS program—a process many drivers are unaware they must initiate within seven days. Missing this deadline often results in a full 90-day license suspension and other penalties, even if the criminal case is later dropped.
“Our firm doesn’t just show up to court,” added Akram. “We advise clients from the moment they’re charged, help prepare for the SafeRoads hearing, and fight for the best possible outcome at every stage.”
Akram Law offers free initial consultations and encourages individuals charged with DUI, over 80, refusal to provide a sample, or drug-impaired driving to contact the firm as soon as possible. Based in downtown Calgary at 800 5 Ave SW, Akram Law represents clients throughout Alberta.
About Akram Law
Akram Law is a Calgary-based criminal defence law firm led by Khalid Akram, J.D., a seasoned lawyer licensed in both Alberta and Ontario. The firm focuses on impaired driving, drug offences, assault charges, bail hearings, and other criminal matters. Known for its strategic advocacy and client-first approach, Akram Law provides full-service defence and legal support from initial arrest to final resolution.
Media Contact
Company Name: Akram Law
Contact Person: Khalid Akram
Email:Send Email
Phone: 403-774–9529
Address:918A 5th Ave SW
City: Calgary
State: Alberta
Country: Canada
Website: https://akramlaw.com/
