Consequences for Trafficking Schedule I and II Drugs
- Maximum penalty of life imprisonment (purely indictable offence)
- Minimum one year in prison for offences involving threats, violence, or under the direction of a criminal organization
- Possible revocation of immigration status
- Employment issues
- Travel restrictions
- Probation
- Fines
- Criminal record
Consequences for Trafficking Schedule III or V Drugs
- Maximum penalty of ten years in prison (if guilty of an indictable offence)
- Penalty of 18 months in prison if charged summarily
- Possible revocation of immigration status
- Employment problems
- Travel restrictions
- Probation
- Fines
- Criminal record
Consequences for Trafficking Schedule IV Drugs
- Maximum penalty of three years in prison (if guilty of an indictable offence)
- Maximum penalty of one year in prison if charged summarily
- Possible revocation of immigration status
- Employment problems
- Travel restrictions
- Probation
- Fines
- Criminal record
Actual Personal Possession
The drug is physically on your person.
Constructive Possession
The drug is not on your person but is kept with another individual or at another location with your knowledge and consent.
Joint Possession
The drug is shared among individuals or at a location with mutual knowledge and consent, constituting joint possession.
Defending Drug Trafficking Charges in Canada
Facing drug trafficking charges demands prompt legal intervention. The resolution of such cases hinges not only on the specifics of your situation but also on the legal representation you secure.
By choosing GSP Law, you enlist the expertise of a proficient drug crime lawyer and gain the support of our entire team, combining insights, experience, and expertise to fortify your defence.
We help in various ways, including:
- diverting your case through alternative measures programs
- providing a robust defence at trial
- navigating sentencing processes
How to Support Your Defence Against PPT Charges in Toronto, GTA, ON
If facing PPT charges in Toronto, assist your Brampton criminal lawyer by providing a detailed statement, preserving all relevant documents, compiling a list of potential witnesses, and documenting pertinent texts, emails, or photos.
Collecting information depends on your case’s specifics; consult your criminal lawyer Brampton for guidance. For proactive defence, secure proof of employment, and reference letters, enroll in counseling, document prescriptions, and note any mental health conditions, enhancing your defence strategy or potentially leading to dropped charges.
Our Specific Criminal Lawyer Service Areas
Here’s a look at the key locations where we offer our specialized services:
- Toronto
- Orangeville
- Brampton
- Mississauga
- Vaughan
- Markham
- Richmond Hill
Frequently Asked Questions About Canada Drug Trafficking?
What is drug Trafficking in Canada?
Simple possession involves holding a controlled substance listed in the CDSA without lawful authority. The CDSA, established by the federal government in 1996, categorizes controlled drugs into eight Schedules.
How can I have my drug charges dismissed?
Depending on your charges and personal circumstances, participating in a diversion program could lead to the withdrawal of drug charges, preventing a criminal record. For minor drug offences like marijuana possession, first or second-time offenders might be eligible for programs such as Alternative Measures (AMP).
Completing assigned conditions like counseling or community service leads to charge withdrawal. If the offence is related to mental illness, the Mental Health Diversion Program (MHD) focuses on treating mental health issues, with successful completion resulting in charge withdrawal.
What are the best defences against a drug charge?
Effective defences to a drug charge vary based on case specifics. Common issues providing a defence include proving:
- Lack of consent, knowledge, or control over the drug.
- Unaware that the substance was a drug.
- Lack of knowledge about having the drug on your person.
- Being forced to keep the drug.
- Having no control over the drug. Demonstrating any of these aspects negates the possession charge.
