Shaun Leochko

First Year of Call
2016

Areas of Practice
Criminal Law

Description
I am a senior criminal defence lawyer at Strategic Criminal Defence, a full-service criminal defence law office, with central offices in Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Victoria, Saskatchewan, and Toronto.

My practice is based in Calgary.

Philosophy
I was called to the Alberta Bar in 2016, and since then, I’ve focused my practice entirely on defending individuals facing criminal charges with integrity and unwavering dedication. For the past six years, I’ve run my own practice and built a team of professionals who share my commitment to justice. I believe in strong, principled advocacy ensuring that every voice is heard and every right is protected. Whether I’m negotiating a resolution or litigating in court, I tailor my approach to each client’s unique circumstances. At the core of my practice are the values of fairness, dignity, and respect for my clients.

Mentorship and Community Involvement
Giving back to the legal community is a priority for me. I continue to work with Student Legal Assistance (SLA), helping law students build their skills and confidence as future criminal defence lawyers. I also serve as Vice President of the Calgary Defence Lawyers Association (CDLA), where I’ve worked on initiatives to address systemic issues within Alberta’s criminal courts and improve the administration of justice.

Education, Achievements and Career
I earned my law degree from the University of Calgary in 2015, where I was actively involved in SLA a pro bono legal clinic that supports low-income individuals in Calgary and surrounding areas. My experience there shaped the foundation of my client-first, community-conscious approach to criminal defence.

How Can I Help You
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to face them alone. I’m committed to providing honest, strategic, and compassionate representation. I will stand by you through every stage of the legal process, working to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

I handle a wide range of criminal matters, including:

Assault and Domestic Violence
Murder and Manslaughter
Sexual Assault and Related Offences
Theft and Fraud
Drug Possession and Trafficking
Bail Litigation
Firearms and Weapons Offences
If you’re facing a criminal charge or investigation, reach out today for a consultation. Let’s discuss your situation and start building a strong defence together.

I am also a member of Legal Aid Alberta’s Major Cases Panel, a select group of criminal defence lawyers across Alberta chosen to handle serious and complex criminal matters.

The panel includes lawyers who have demonstrated extensive experience in criminal law and who are trusted to represent individuals facing some of the most challenging and high-stakes charges. Membership is based on courtroom experience, a commitment to ongoing legal education, and the ability to effectively manage complex cases.

For my clients, this means working with a lawyer who has experience navigating difficult legal situations with skill, preparation, and dedication. My inclusion on the panel reflects my commitment to providing strong advocacy and thoughtful representation to individuals facing serious criminal allegations.

As part of the panel, I also continue advanced legal training focused specifically on serious criminal matters, helping ensure my clients receive knowledgeable and up-to-date representation when they need it most.