Impaired Driving Defence Centre

Professional Legal Team With a Track Record of Success

Schedule a FREE assessment

Reputation you can trust with over 20 years of experience.

Call now 1-877-497-3927

Schedule a FREE assessment

AveryLaw, the firm behind the Impaired Driving Defence Centre, was built to take impaired driving defence seriously—and to raise the standard. We focus exclusively on DUI-related offences across Ontario and believe that effective legal defence starts with respect, clarity, and a solid plan. As our practice grows into new communities and court jurisdictions, our values remain rooted in trust, precision, and purpose. Get to know the team.

OUR LEGAL TEAM

Christopher Avery

Lawyer and Owner

Christopher A. Avery has been in the courtroom for nearly three decades, running his first trials in 1997 as a student at Osgoode Hall, the oldest law school in Canada. By the time he was called to the bar in 2002, he had already completed over 200 trials at CLASP, the legal aid criminal law clinic at Osgoode Hall Law School and worked alongside some of Toronto’s most senior criminal lawyers. He began his career handling organized crime, complex drug litigation, and homicide cases before turning his full attention to DUI defence, a field where his experience gives clients the second chance they need.

Now licensed in both Ontario and Nova Scotia, Mr. Avery has defended thousands of DUI cases, earning a reputation among judges and Crown attorneys as fair, fearless, and effective. Known for his strategic courtroom style and depth of cross-examination, he is trusted not only by his clients but also by colleagues who regularly seek his mentorship. He is an active member of the Law Society of Ontario, the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, the Canadian and Ontario Bar Associations, the Criminal Lawyers’ Association, the American National Association of Criminal Defence Lawyers, and the National College for DUI Defence in the United States.

Mr. Avery values discretion above publicity. While he has been interviewed by the media on many occasions, he prefers to protect his clients’ privacy, anonymizing even public cases so that no one’s personal struggle becomes a headline. His philosophy is simple: prepare every case as if it will go to trial, knowing that his reputation for rigorous preparation often creates the leverage needed for favourable resolutions.

Born and raised in Acton, Ontario, he spent summers in the Bruce Peninsula and Port Severn, grounding him in the communities he now serves. Today he lives in Durham Region with his Bernese Mountain Dog, Annie, and pursues his love of literature through a Great Books group. Clients describe him as strategic, discreet, and deeply committed, qualities that reflect not just his professional training but his personal values.

Erica Champagnie

Paralegal

I have been a Criminal Defence Paralegal at AveryLaw since 2017, working exclusively alongside Mr. Avery in the defence of individuals charged with impaired driving and related offences. My entire career has been dedicated to this area of law, giving me a deep understanding of DUI defence and a strong commitment to supporting our clients at every stage of their case.

Originally from Ontario, I grew up in Prince Edward Island before returning to Ontario to pursue my legal education. After graduating from St. Mary’s in Halifax, Nova Scotia in April 2016, I attended Seneca College in Toronto, enrolling in their accelerated one-year Paralegal program that September. The program’s pace and depth prepared me to enter the field quickly and effectively — and AveryLaw became the only firm I have ever worked for.

From the first client phone call to the final day in court, I am involved in every step of the process. My role includes managing administrative court appearances, organizing disclosure materials, coordinating with the courts and Crown prosecutors, and ensuring our clients are informed and prepared for what lies ahead. I am often the main point of contact for clients, guiding them through procedures, answering questions, and providing the reassurance they need during what can be an overwhelming experience.

Working in DUI defence demands attention to detail, efficiency, and compassion. I take pride in making sure nothing is overlooked, whether I am arranging dates, following up on disclosure requests, or preparing case materials for trial. I know that thorough preparation is key to building the strongest possible defence, and I strive to ensure our clients feel supported and confident in the process.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is building relationships with our clients. Facing a criminal charge can be daunting, and I aim to be a steady and approachable resource for them throughout the process. Every client’s circumstances are different, and I tailor my support to meet their individual needs, always keeping their best interests at the forefront.

Outside of work, I enjoy creative outlets like crafting, and I value time spent with my husband, friends, and family. These personal connections keep me grounded and remind me why I am passionate about the work I do — helping people navigate challenging situations and move forward with their lives.

I am proud to have built my entire career at AveryLaw and to contribute to the firm’s reputation for excellence in DUI defence. I remain dedicated to providing our clients not only with strong legal support but also with the understanding, respect, and guidance they deserve.

Alexandra Cullum

Law Clerk

Alex Cullum is a law student at AveryLaw, where she supports the firm’s work in criminal defence and DUI matters across Ontario. She holds both a Paralegal and Law Clerk diploma from Durham College, as well as an Honours Bachelor of Legal Studies from Ontario Tech University. Alex is currently completing her law degree through the University of London. Her background in legal research and client support plays a key role in delivering effective, detail-oriented service to our clients.

Natasha Stojanoski

Paralegal

Natasha Stojanoski is a law clerk at AveryLaw, where she manages the firm’s pardon, waiver, and criminal record destruction department. She holds a Paralegal Diploma from Durham College and is dedicated to helping clients move forward with confidence and clarity. Currently, she is on the path to becoming a Licences Paralegal. Natasha is committed to helping clients navigate complex processes with confidence and care.

Check Our Winning Record