Charlie was raised in Northern Alberta and Saskatchewan. He earned an undergraduate degree at the University of Manitoba, and then attended the University of Alberta, where he earned his law degree.

The early years of his career led him to Sidney, Prince George, Penticton and Whitehorse. He returned to Penticton in 1989 to practice with a small firm, and started his own firm in 1992.

In 2003, Charlie partnered with Robert Wahl to form the firm of Albas Wahl. They offer services related to real estate transactions, corporate law, wills and estates, and trusts.

(Note: Moved a paragraph about family law to the first page.)

In addition to serving his community's legal needs, Charlie also serves on several board and committees: