Articling

Articling with Bottos Law Group represents a unique opportunity to work and learn at one of the leading criminal law firms in Edmonton, Alberta. Students-at-Law at the firm participate in all aspects of the work we do, and are an important and valued part of our team.

The Firm

Bottos Law Group is led by Mr. Dino Bottos K.C., who oversees all articling students at the firm. The firm includes several associates who also practice criminal law exclusively. We represent individuals charged with a wide range of criminal offences at all levels of the court system, including the Alberta Court of Justice, the Territorial and Supreme Courts of Northwest Territories, the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta, the Alberta Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court of Canada.

The Work We Do

As an Articling Student, you will have exposure to a wide variety of files from senior lawyers at our firm. Although our primary focus is criminal trial practice, we also handle criminal appeals and occasional regulatory matters, such as Law Enforcement Review Board Appeals, University Appeals, and other administrative tribunals.

We aim to provide a balanced and thorough exposure to the work of a criminal defence lawyer.  Articling students can expect to split their time between docket, written work for other lawyers, and their own files.  Docket appearances generally occupy only a fraction of any given day, as files are proactively managed and assigned.

In terms of work assigned from senior lawyers, you will be responsible for drafting written submissions, Charter notices, and various research memoranda. Additionally, you will appear in court on behalf of senior lawyers to conduct bail hearings, enter clients into peace bonds and other court orders, and handle summary dispositions.  Opportunities to advance your learning and run trials are also available.

Throughout your Articling term, Mr. Bottos aims to provide you with the opportunity to sit second chair on at least one jury trial. This experience will expose you to the conduct of a jury trial and to major matters in the Court of King’s Bench.  There are also occasional chances to assist with appeals at the Alberta Court of Appeal and Supreme Court of Canada.

A highlight of the Articling program at Bottos Law Group is the opportunity to have control over your own files. From day one, you have the option to take control of your own Legal Aid and/or private files, handling them from from initial intake to trial or resolution. A robust support system is in place to address any questions and ensure you provide the best possible service to your clients. There is no pressure to take on these files, and no billable targets to meet. This option primarily aims to provide you with invaluable experience in the conduct of a full legal matter.

We believe that a professional and thorough approach to the defence of individuals charged with crime is the only way to practice Criminal Law appropriately.  We seek individuals who share our passion for criminal law and the defence of accused individuals. We also seek individuals with an excellent academic track record and refined legal research and writing skills. Students with experience in Student Legal Aid programs and oral advocacy classes, such as moots, are also encouraged to apply.  Candidates who have secured clerkships are also invited to apply.

Articling positions generally last for one year, and if there is a good fit, we may offer an associate position. If hired as an associate, you would be able to develop your own practice while in a supportive environment.

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive Salary aligned with other Criminal Defence Firms and the Crown Prosecution Service
• Payment of Law Society and CPLED Fees (as well as time off to attend CPLED)
• Parking
• Optional Medical and Dental Coverage

How to Apply

At this time, Articling applications are closed.  Thank you to all who applied for 2025! 

Applications submitted by email should be in PDF format.  Please combine all documents into one PDF document, titled “LAST NAME – Articling Application 2025” and send to reception@bottoslaw.ca.

All applications to be considered should be submitted in full by May 19, 2024.

All applications should include a cover letter that sets out your unique experiences, skills, and reasons for applying to our firm. Please also include the following:

• Curriculum Vitae or Résumé
• Official Law School Transcripts (Copies are Acceptable)
• Short Writing Sample
• Reference Letters if Available