Meet your Criminal Defence Lawyer

Early in her career, Ms. Cheema was involved in a case requiring her to address serious concerns about her client’s Charter rights in dealings with the Calgary Police Service during the pre-charge stage of a criminal investigation. After those concerns were raised, the investigation was discontinued.

Her interest in Charter litigation has continued throughout her practice. In a subsequent case, she argued that her client maintained a reasonable expectation of privacy in a lost cellular phone that was unlocked and had never been reported stolen. The court agreed. The decision was later cited in the Police Powers Newsletter, published by Thomson Reuters.

These experiences have shaped Ms. Cheema’s approach to criminal defence. She understands that each case carries significant consequences for the person involved. Once retained, she walks alongside her clients throughout the process, providing steady guidance and thoughtful advocacy. She is consistent, diligent, and committed to working toward a fair and just resolution in every file.

If a resolution does not serve her client’s best interests, Ms. Cheema is prepared to advocate in court to ensure their rights remain fully protected.

Ms. Cheema’s background in journalism provides her with a unique perspective on public institutions and decision-making processes. It sharpened her ability to investigate thoroughly, question official narratives, and listen carefully to overlooked details. She brings that same disciplined and thoughtful approach to her defence practice, ensuring her clients’ voices are heard where it matters most—the courtroom.

Ms. Cheema has appeared before the Alberta Court of Justice and the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta. In March 2026, she participated in a two-day educational presentation on impaired driving law in Canada for students in Mount Royal University’s Criminal Justice program, presenting alongside a Crown prosecutor and police officer. Her involvement in that program reflects her broader commitment to legal education, clear communication, and thoughtful engagement with the criminal justice system.

As an Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) lawyer, Ms. Cheema has represented numerous Albertans navigating the administrative penalty process. She has experience handling IRS matters involving complex facts, uncertain review grounds, and detailed evidentiary issues. Her approach emphasizes careful preparation, issue-spotting, and clear written and oral advocacy. Despite the legal constraints of the administrative adjudication system, Ms. Cheema remains committed to upholding the integrity of the law and the protections guaranteed under the Charter in every case.

As a criminal defence lawyer, Ms. Cheema considers it her duty to protect her clients’ rights at every stage of the process. Whether addressing a criminal charge, an IRS matter, or a Charter issue, she remains committed to careful preparation, principled advocacy, and working toward a fair and just resolution in every file.