Drug Offences

In Canada, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act documents what drugs are legal and illegal, and how you may be charged if you’re found in possession of an illegal substance. Drug laws have changed significantly in recent years, and we’ve curated this collection of articles to help you navigate that ever-changing landscape.

If you’ve been charged with a drug offence, reach out to the experts at Collett Read LLP. We’re well versed in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and can help protect your rights accordingly.

Can You Still Be Charged for Marijuana Related Offences in Canada in 2025?

Legalization ≠ Immunity Although Canada legalized recreational cannabis in October 2018 with the Cannabis Act, this does not mean all cannabis-related activities are lawful. Individuals...

What Constitutes Drug Trafficking Tools?

In Canada, drug trafficking tools encompass a broad range of materials and equipment associated with the illegal production, packaging, and distribution of controlled substances. While...

Can You Be Charged with Drug Trafficking If You Never Sold Anything?

When people think of drug trafficking, they often imagine large-scale drug deals or street-level sales involving cash and secrecy. But in Canadian law, the definition...

Consequences of Smuggling Drugs Across the Canadian Border Blog

Smuggling drugs across the border is a significant crime and can result in serious charges. When one smuggles drugs across the border, they are subject...

Can You Smoke Cannabis In Public?

Smoking Cannabis in Public in Canada In Canada, smoking cannabis is legal through the Cannabis Act. This act, effective as of October of 2018, controls...

Are THC Gummies Legal in Ontario?

In recent years, the availability and popularity of THC gummies and other cannabis-infused edibles have been on the rise in Ontario and across Canada. While...

What Happens If Someone in My Car Is in Possession of Drugs?

There can be serious consequences if a passenger is in possession of drugs in your car. If police find drugs in a car, the driver,...

What happens if you get stopped by the police and you have legal cannabis in your possession?

Cannabis, while legal, is still a controlled substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. If police suspect that you are in possession of a...

Will I get in trouble for reporting a drug overdose in Ontario?

A common issue that can occur around drug use is the hesitation to call for medical assistance when a drug overdose happens. Will you get...

What is the penalty for drug possession in Canada?

Generally speaking, you may wonder what the penalty for drug possession is in Canada. The penalty for drug possession is determined by a variety of...

What is the legal meaning of “drug paraphernalia”?

While marijuana is legal for recreational use in Canada, possessing drug paraphernalia related to illegal substances is still subject to legal scrutiny. Therefore, understanding the...

Is MDMA/molly/ecstasy legal in Canada?

In Canada, MDMA, also known as molly and ecstasy, is classified as a Schedule III substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. This means...