Our Story
Duncan Craig LLP: A Storied Legacy of Legal Excellence Since 1894
Our History: Rooted in Legacy, Integrity, and Solutions
Duncan Craig LLP traces its origins back to 1894 with our founding partners, William Short, Edmonton’s first mayor, and Charles Cross, Alberta’s first Attorney General. As one of the oldest law firms in Alberta, we have built a strong foundation of legal excellence, unwavering integrity, and deep community connections. Our firm remains dedicated to finding innovative solutions for our clients while upholding a proud tradition of service and professionalism.
A Storied Past: Over a Century of Service
Since our inception, Duncan Craig LLP has maintained a strong presence in the heart of Edmonton, never relocating more than a few blocks from our current location at Rice Howard Place. In 1909, the firm moved to the prestigious second floor of the Merchant’s Bank Building—where Rice Howard Place now stands—and steadily grew from there. Like many businesses, we endured the challenges of the First World War, the Great Depression, and the Second World War, yet we remained steadfast in our commitment to clients and the legal profession.
Over the decades, we have navigated significant social, economic, and technological transformations. From the days of stenographers and typewriters to today’s digital solutions, Duncan Craig LLP has embraced change while preserving what truly matters—our dedication to clients and community.
William Short
Short and Cross Office
Charles Cross
Merchant Building
Growth, Expansion, and Evolution
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1979
The firm officially became Duncan & Craig. -
1980s – 1990s
Expansion through strategic mergers strengthened our presence in Alberta. -
2000
Rebranded as Duncan & Craig LLP, reinforcing our commitment to excellence. -
2006
Merged with another firm, leading to the opening of our Drayton Valley office. -
2013
Rebranded as Duncan Craig LLP, solidifying our modern identity while honoring our rich history.
Today, our firm spans across two offices, with our headquarters in Edmonton and a strong presence in Drayton Valley. We are home to approximately 45 lawyers and 65 support staff, delivering legal services throughout Alberta and across Canada.
Rice Howard Place
A Legacy of Leadership & Community Engagement
Since our earliest days, Duncan Craig LLP has been deeply integrated into the Alberta community. Our firm has produced esteemed judges, MLAs, city councillors, and dedicated legal professionals who have shaped Alberta’s legal landscape. Our lawyers and staff actively contribute to political, civic, and charitable initiatives at every level, ensuring our firm remains a pillar of service and advocacy.
We are proud supporters of various charitable organizations, legal education programs, and business initiatives that strengthen the communities we serve. Our team is committed to fostering positive change, both within the legal profession and beyond.
Continuing the Tradition of Excellence
Duncan Craig LLP acknowledges that we provide legal services in ᐊᒥᐢᑲᐧᒋᐋᐧᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ, Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton), and in Drayton Valley, on Treaty 6 Territory, the traditional and ancestral homeland of the Nehiyawak (Cree), Saulteaux, Nakota Sioux, Stoney (Îyârhe) Nakoda, Dene, and Blackfoot peoples, as well as the Métis and Inuit. Indigenous peoples have lived on and stewarded these lands for thousands of years, and we recognize their enduring presence, cultures, and contributions. As legal professionals, we acknowledge our role in reconciliation and our responsibility to uphold the principles of respect, truth, and justice. We are committed to listening, learning, and working alongside Indigenous communities, deepening our understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing, including those we are privileged to serve through our service practice groups.