Our Firm

our-history

Our Firm’s History

The Strategic Criminal Defence story is one of over +15 years of collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence in criminal defence law.

2007 – 2010: Early Collaboration

Our firm’s story began in 2007, when defence lawyers, Michael Oykhman and Ian Savage, started working together after Michael was called to the Alberta Bar. At the time, they were part of an association of independent practices under the name Savage, Siver, Kiss & Virk. The firm operated from its location in Elveden Place. Though the association dissolved in 2008, Michael and Ian maintained a close working relationship through their respective professional corporations.

Between 2008 and 2010, they practiced from Lord Russell Barrister Chambers at 410 6th Street SW. The office was shared with some of Calgary’s most notable criminal defence lawyers. However, the duo quickly outgrew the space.

2010 – 2012: Founding of Savage Oykhman Law

In 2010, Michael and Ian moved to their new location in downtown Calgary at 396 11th Avenue SW. It is still the firm’s head office today.

Shortly after moving in, the firm was rebranded as Savage Oykhman Law. Although it operated as independent practices, the lawyers shared a vision for collaboration, excellence, and integrity.

2012 – 2020: A Digital Leap

In 2012, the website www.oykhmancriminaldefence.com was launched. It quickly gained prominence for its helpful content, robust successful cases, and client-focused messaging. Drawing on both his legal experience and his role as a mentor at the University of Calgary Faculty of Law, Michael developed a trusted online resource that helped thousands of people charged with criminal offences and educated hundreds of law students.

The website’s success grew, and so did the firm’s reputation.

2020 – 2023: Growth Across Canada

Fuelled by increasing demand from across Canada, the firm expanded between 2020 and 2025 with new offices in Western Canada and Ontario. The Calgary office alone grew to include more than a dozen criminal defence lawyers. With shared systems and values, the “Oykhman Criminal Defence” brand became a recognizable force in Canadian criminal law.

But as the brand grew, so did confusion. The firm became commonly known by the name of its website, and despite being a collaborative effort, only Michael’s name was referenced. Recognizing the need for a change, a new firm name was selected to reflect the entire team’s character and purpose.

2023 – Present: Strategic Criminal Defence

In 2023, Oykhman Criminal Defence was rebranded as Strategic Criminal Defence. The new brand name is a reflection of the firm’s approach to strategic, client-focused advocacy. While our firm’s brand name has changed, the team, leadership, and core values remain the same.

By 2025, the Strategic Criminal Defence brand has officially merged Oykhman Criminal Defence and Savage Oykhman Law.

In Alberta, the brand integrated independent legal practices including:

  • Shawn Leochco and Associates
  • Rick Muenz and Associates
  • Rebecca Snukal and Associates
  • Ellen Sutherland
  • Frank Carbonaro

Today

Strategic Criminal Defence now operates independent offices in Calgary, Toronto, and Victoria, with additional regional offices across Western Canada. All non-Alberta operations are supported by JL Management Services Inc.

Despite our growth, each lawyer at Strategic Criminal Defence remains dedicated to our shared mission: to provide exceptional advocacy and uphold the highest standard of legal excellence.

Client Reviews

Fantastic defence team! Mateya Selders was puntual at every instance. She skillfully guided me through my case from its dreadful start to successful finish. Combined with her legal know-how, experienced team, and exceptional service; she has made an otherwise tragic turn of events into a memorable hinderence.

5 stars can’t even come close to convey my gratitude. Thank you Mateya and the Strategic Criminal Defence team!

G.C.

I wanted to thank Michael and his team for being outstanding and providing the best customer service. Thank you for winning my case. I really appreciate it. We all make mistakes and learn from them. Thank you again Michael. Highly recommended! Best lawyer in Alberta and Calgary!!

E.G.

I can’t thank enough to Joseph Beller. I got into a funny situation charged by CPS. This is a horrible place to be in, anyone who needs help should reach out ASAP.

He was very professional, calm, made the case go very smooth, good communication, answered my questions. Reliable! He cares about his clients, I trusted him 100%.

Charges have been withdrawn within a few months. 100% recommend him and his team to anyone in need! I wish more lawyers would be like him!

C.R.

Had my first criminal offence and unfortunately ended up with assault charges after drinking too much. Greg took the time to review the evidence and noted that there was actually no assault on one of the allegations! He was so patient with me and dealt with my fear and anxiety amazingly, answering my million questions all hours of the day. It took forever, due to delay from prosecution, but I ended up with a resolution of a peace bond that was acceptable while also allowing me to deal with the consequences of my actions. I hope to never be in a position to see Greg again, however, I highly recommend him and his team for these tough situations!

M.E.
I recently found myself assisting my elderly father with an urgent legal situation while from out of province. Attorney Greg Janzen went above and beyond from A-Z. He walked us through every step seamlessly. Resulting in a better than expected outcome. You can count on Greg Janzen!

R.E.
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