Criminal defence, appeals and prison law
Criminal defence lawyers in Vancouver for bail, trial, sentencing and appeal. We also act for people in federal custody on parole, transfer and detention matters.
More than 32 years in criminal courtrooms.
Donna Turko is King's Counsel and sits on the Board of Legal Aid BC. She has practised criminal law for over 32 years, since graduating from Dalhousie Law School in 1991.
Much of Ms. Turko's work is in the appellate courts, and the firm has argued and won appeals at the Supreme Court of Canada, the BC Court of Appeal and the Federal Court of Appeal. One of those cases, May v. Warden of Ferndale Institution, 2005 SCC 82, set out how prisoners can use habeas corpus to challenge their detention.
Ms. Turko received the Harry Rankin Pro Bono Award in 1998. Every client receives a clear account of where they stand and careful preparation for each step in court.
- 32+
- Years practising criminal law
- 3
- Appellate courts where we have won appeals
We act from first appearance to appeal.
Our practice is limited to criminal law, appellate work and prison law.
- 01
Criminal defence
Defence of criminal charges in the Provincial Court and the Supreme Court of British Columbia, from first appearance onward.
- 02
Bail hearings, preliminary hearings and trials
Arguing for release, testing the Crown's evidence before trial, and defending the case at trial.
- 03
Sentencing hearings
Preparing the material and arguments the court needs to reach a fair and proportionate sentence.
Appeals and applications
Appeals from conviction and sentence, and applications before appellate courts, including the BC Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada.
Charter of Rights and Freedoms applications
Challenging searches, detentions, delay and other state conduct that breaches your Charter rights, and seeking the exclusion of evidence.
Extraordinary remedies
Certiorari, mandamus, prohibition and habeas corpus, used to review unlawful decisions and unlawful detention.
Judicial review
Asking a court to review the decision of a tribunal, board or government body that acted unfairly or outside its authority.
Regulatory offences
Defence of provincial and federal regulatory charges, where the consequences for work and livelihood can be serious.
Prison and parole law
Representation for people serving federal sentences, on the decisions that shape their time inside and their release.
Parole, detention and post-suspension hearings
Preparing for and appearing at Parole Board of Canada hearings, including detention reviews and hearings after a suspension.
Prison transfers and visitation issues
Challenging involuntary transfers, security classifications and restrictions on visits.
“Donna is fantastic. It was nice to have someone fight for me the way she did.”
Ben Burgens · Google review · 7 years ago
“Donna was an amazing help for me she was prompt, professional and really cared about the details and outcome”
“Donna really took the time to fully understand my scenario. She is extremely well-versed, establishes connections to connect the dots, I cannot say enough good words about her as a lawyer, but thats enough words for here.”
Frequently Asked Questions
I have been charged or I am under investigation. What should I do first?
Do not discuss the allegations with police, the complainant or anyone else beyond what the law requires. Speak to a criminal defence lawyer as soon as you can, ideally before any interview or court date. Call us at 604-801-6880.
Can you take on my appeal if another lawyer handled the trial?
Yes. Appeals are a large part of our practice, and we often come to a case after trial. Appeal deadlines are short, so contact us as soon as possible after the verdict or sentence.
Do you act for people already serving a sentence?
Yes. We represent people in federal custody at parole and detention hearings, after a parole suspension, and on transfers, classification and visitation issues. Family members may contact us on their behalf.
How do I arrange a consultation?
Call the office at 604-801-6880 or use the contact form below. Give us a brief outline of the matter and any upcoming court dates, and we will be in touch to arrange a time.
Speak to a lawyer about your case.
The earlier we hear from you about a new charge, a sentence you want to appeal or an upcoming parole hearing, the more we can do.
Our office is in Guinness Tower.
- Mon–Fri
- 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sat–Sun
- Closed