Professionals often strive to climb the corporate ladder as part of their professional growth by setting clear career goals, continuously developing their skills, and strategically positioning themselves within their organizations.
However, for criminal defense lawyer Michael Oykhman, professional growth extends beyond personal advancement to include mentoring the next generation of criminal lawyers.
As a senior lawyer and founder of Strategic Criminal Defence, Oykhman understands the importance of sharing his considerable experience and aptitude with aspiring legal professionals. His presence at prestigious universities in Canada helps guide law students and contributes to the future of the legal community.
Building a Legacy in Criminal Defense
Michael Oykhman’s journey in criminal defense began with an academic background at the University of Calgary. He earned the Crown Association Prize for top performance in first-year criminal law and was part of the university’s first team to reach the Gale Cup Moot Competition finals. This early success helped pave the way for what would become a highly regarded criminal defense practice.
After being called to the bar in 2007, Oykhman established himself in Alberta’s courtrooms. His appearances at all levels of court, including the Supreme Court of Canada, demonstrated his strong advocacy skills.
However, it was his strategic outlook on problem-solving that helped distinguish him. Rather than viewing every case as a path to trial, Oykhman became known for finding alternative solutions that often resolved cases before reaching the courtroom.
Over the past 15 years, Oykhman has grown his practice into a widely recognized criminal defense network with more than 20 lawyers nationally. His firm has defended over 10,000 criminal cases, garnering over 500 five-star Google reviews and receiving recognition as one of Alberta’s top-rated criminal defense teams.
Mentorship and Education: Shaping Future Defenders
Oykhman’s dedication to legal education extends beyond his courtroom achievements. As an annual instructor for trial advocacy at the University of Calgary Law School, he plays a key role in teaching the next generation of criminal defense lawyers. His involvement as the advising lawyer for Student Legal Assistance, a non-profit organization at the University of Calgary, reflects his commitment to providing access to justice for low-income individuals.
His mentorship approach is guided by the same principles that shape his practice: sharing accumulated experience, resources, and a passion for helping people. Under his leadership, Strategic Criminal Defence has fostered a team-oriented environment where lawyers collaborate to achieve strong outcomes for their clients. This collaborative model has been effective, with the firm handling cases ranging from impaired driving to violent offenses.
Oykhman aims to inspire future criminal defense lawyers by sharing his knowledge and real-world experiences, helping them develop the practical skills, strategic thinking, and ethical foundations valuable for success in the field. This mentorship approach benefits the mentees and strengthens the legal profession. It also encourages a “pay it forward” mindset, motivating successful lawyers to become mentors.
Mentorship: A Dual Benefit
Through his mentorship initiatives, Michael Oykhman engages in a dynamic exchange that enriches his legal practice. As he guides new lawyers through the complexities of criminal defense, their fresh perspectives can challenge traditional approaches, potentially leading to innovative solutions.
Michael Oykhman shares, “This reciprocal learning process helps me stay attuned to evolving legal theories and new perspectives from academic settings. This exchange bridges established legal principles with emerging trends in criminal defense practice.”
Oykhman’s journey from an experienced criminal defense lawyer to a dedicated mentor and firm leader illustrates the impact one individual can have on the legal profession. He continues to shape current and future generations of criminal defense lawyers, from the courtroom to the classroom. Through Strategic Criminal Defence, Oykhman has built a firm rooted in justice, education, and professional growth.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The views expressed are those of the featured individual and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated institutions. Readers seeking legal counsel should consult a qualified legal professional.
Published by Joseph T.
