In Canada, drug offences are governed by a complex set of laws and regulations, which can be challenging for those facing charges or anyone who simply wants to understand them. It’s important to remember that if you are facing drug-related charges, you should always seek legal advice from a professional drug offence lawyer in Edmonton.
This blog post explores Canada’s drug laws by providing an overview of the various drug offences and their penalties. From possession to trafficking, production to import and export, we’ll examine the laws and regulations governing each type of offence and discuss how they affect marginalized communities.
Possession Offences
In Canada, possession offences refer to the illegal possession of a controlled substance as defined by the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Many drugs fall into this category, including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. Possession can be actual or constructive, meaning it can be physical possession or having control over the substance, such as storing it in a location over which you have control or access.
Penalties for this drug offence vary by drug type and quantity, with harsher penalties for Schedule II drugs such as cocaine or heroin (maximum sentence of 7 years for the first offence and up to life imprisonment for subsequent crimes). The punishment is less severe for Schedule III and IV drugs like Methamphetamine and barbiturates (maximum penalty of 3 years for a first offence), and Schedule I and V drugs are not criminalized.
In October 2018, Canada legalized the possession and use of marijuana for adults. However, control of more significant amounts can still result in charges. It is advised to seek the consultation of a professional drug offence lawyer for better legal advice.
Trafficking Offences
Trafficking offences include the production, importation, exportation, and possession of a controlled substance as defined by the CDSA. As it involves the illegal distribution of drugs, these drug offences are considered more severe than possession offences. Trafficking can take many forms, including selling drugs on the street, operating a large-scale drug operation, or passing drugs to a friend.
Drug trafficking is punishable by harsh penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences for certain drugs and quantities under the CDSA. For instance, trafficking in Schedule I drugs such as heroin and cocaine can result in a one-year prison sentence for the first offence, two years for subsequent crimes, and two/four years if the quantity exceeds three kilograms.
Similarly, trafficking Schedule II drugs such as methamphetamine can result in a one-year minimum sentence for a first offence and a two-year minimum sentence for subsequent crimes.
Production Offences
Offences involving the illegal manufacture or cultivation of controlled substances are known as production offences in Canada. Growing marijuana plants, making methamphetamine, or combining different drugs can all fall under this category. The severity of the punishment for drug production offences is determined by the kind and quantity of the drug produced, with Schedule I and II drugs like cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine receiving harsher punishments.
Legalizing medical marijuana in Canada may lessen the penalties for marijuana production offences by allowing authorized people to grow marijuana for therapeutic purposes. It is important to remember that non-medical cannabis is still illegal to possess, distribute, or sell outside of a controlled environment and that doing so can lead to production-related charges.
It’s always best to seek legal advice from a seasoned drug offence lawyer if you are facing charges related to the production of controlled substances.
Also read: Understanding Firearm And Weapon Offences In Alberta
Import And Export Offences
It is a crime to violate laws governing the import or export of controlled substances. Bringing illegal drugs across the border, mailing them, or arranging for them to be shipped from one country to another are all examples of this. Importing or exporting Schedule I and II controlled substances, such as cocaine and heroin, is punishable by life imprisonment for the first offence and life imprisonment for subsequent offences under the CDSA.
Drug trafficking is a significant problem in Canada, as many of the illegal drugs consumed in the country are imported from other countries. To address this issue, the Canadian government has taken steps such as cooperating with other nations and agencies on investigations, utilizing surveillance technology and strengthening border security. However, it remains a persistent challenge for Canadian law enforcement.
About Daryl Royer
Mr. Royer is an Edmonton-based criminal defence lawyer who has handled cases all over Canada. He has defended people accused of murder, impaired driving, drug trafficking, assault, attempted murder, fraud, and theft. Learn more about Daryl Royer and his criminal defence services.
Need an experienced and trustworthy drug offence lawyer in Edmonton? Contact Daryl now.