Elek Reitsma is a criminal defence lawyer, called to the bar in 2023. He has conducted trials, preliminary inquiries, bail hearings and appeals. He has appeared at all levels of court in Ontario, and at the Supreme Court of Canada. Elek’s passion comes from helping clients. Criminal defendants and appellants are uniquely vulnerable. Elek takes the time to ensure clients are aware of the processes and procedures affecting them, and are involved to the greatest extent possible in their defence.
Elek attended Queen’s University’s Faculty of Law, where he gained practical experience working with vulnerable clients at a legal aid clinic. Following law school, Elek articled at a high-volume criminal defence firm in Toronto and was an associate lawyer there, before moving to a contract position at a labour and employment law firm, where he continued to practice in criminal defence. In 2025, he moved to Edmonton to work exclusively on criminal appeals.
On top of his work, Elek enjoys volunteering in the community. He has been active since law school with the Law Union of Ontario’s Policing Subcommittee, which is focused on policing accountability in Ontario. Elek is also active in the LGBTQ+ community, and is a member of the Criminal Lawyers’ Association.
