Criminal Lawyers Association

The Criminal Lawyers' Association (CLA) is one of the largest specialty legal organizations in Canada, with more than 1,200 members. We are a voice for criminal justice and civil liberties in Canada. Our advice and perspective is sought by all levels of government and the judiciary on issues relating to legislation and the administration of criminal justice. We also assist our members in every aspect of the practice of criminal litigation. The Association is governed by an executive and board of directors elected by the membership. Our current President is Anthony Moustacalis. CLA develops and hosts continuing education programs for criminal law practitioners and offers the most comprehensive annual criminal defence law conference in Canada. The three day convention and education program each fall includes leading counsel and lecturers from Canada and elsewhere. The highlight of each convention is the presentation of the G. Arthur Martin Criminal Justice Medal for an outstanding contribution to criminal justice.