Drug Offences
Need a lawyer for drug charges?
You need a strong legal team to defend you against drug crime charges. Collett Read LLP is a high-powered law firm with a track record of success providing legal defence against serious criminal drug charges, such as trafficking, possession for the purpose, cultivation, as well as importation.
The team at Collett Read LLP is truly passionate about helping every client through what is usually the most difficult time in their lives. Supremely skilled in the law, we advocate for our clients, helping them through the challenges they may be facing in their personal lives. Starting right from our first meeting, we take the time and care to get to know each client, their history, and their unique set of circumstances. Our commitment goes beyond just the case.
Types of Drug Offences We Defend
Our lawyers will fight to defend you against all levels of drug-related charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and related federal laws, including:
- Drug Possession
- Drug Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Drug Trafficking
- Drug Production or Cultivation
- Importing or Exporting Controlled Substances
In 2019, Collett Read LLP successfully defended a client that was charged with the of importation of 330 grams of cocaine by the CBSA at Person International Airport in Toronto. We helped the client avoid a lengthy jail sentence as well as a criminal record for these very serious drug charges.
Consequences of a Drug Conviction in Canada
A conviction for a drug offence will affect you significantly for the rest of your life. Penalties for drug convictions include:
- Substantial fines
- Prison time
- A permanent criminal record in Canada
- Difficulty finding meaningful employment
- Loss of international travel abilities
- Possible Immigration issues
- Professional license revocation
How We Build a Strong Drug Charge Defence
We approach every case with a unique plan, developing a detailed understanding for every part of the incident. From our first meeting we will investigate every facet of your case and perspective to craft a specialized defence to protect your rights. We’ll be by your side the whole time.
Some aspects we will address are:
- Whether the search against you was legal
- If your Charter rights were violated
- How valid the evidence and testimonies are
- Your background and circumstances
Our team will craft a strategic defence to challenge the Crown’s case and secure a favourable outcome for you.
Why Choose Collett Read LLP?
Local Experience: We know the courts across Ontario, inside and out.
24/7 Availability: We’re ready to talk whenever you need us.
Proven Results: We have a history of successful defences against drug charges.
Personalized Approach: Every case and every client comes to us with a unique set of circumstances, and we treat them as such.
Non-Judgmental Advocacy: Your charges don’t define you as a person. We get to know you beyond the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can drug charges be dropped in Canada?
Yes, charges can be withdrawn or stayed if evidence is weak, Charter rights were violated, or a resolution is negotiated. We explore all options to challenge the case against you.
What’s the difference between drug possession and trafficking?
Possession involves having a designated drug for your own use. Drug trafficking involves selling, transporting, and/or distributing drugs. Possession for the purpose of trafficking is also illegal.
What if the drugs were someone else’s?
Ownership doesn’t always matter; control or knowledge of the drugs can still be illegal. However, we often build successful defences around lack of intent or knowledge.
Do I need a lawyer even if it’s a minor drug offence?
Absolutely. Even first-time drug charges can have serious consequences. A lawyer can often help you avoid a criminal record or negotiate alternative resolutions.
What our clients say
We’re proud to have helped so many people through some of the most difficult events of their lives. Seeing words like these is what drives our team to succeed.
Don’t wait if you or a loved one has been charged with a drug offence.
Get in touch with our team as soon as possible. We’re available 24/7.