When you're facing a drug offense, it can feel like the odds are stacked against you. But not every charge leads to a conviction. There are several common defences in drug offence cases that an experienced lawyer can raise—especially when your rights have been violated or the investigation was flawed. Everything starts with a strong case evaluation and a strategy that targets the weaknesses in the Crown’s case.
When Police Exceeded the Powers Granted in a Search
One of the first things I examine in any drug case is whether the police search was lawful. If there was no valid warrant, or if the police exceeded the powers granted to them, that could be a serious breach of your rights. In many cases, illegally obtained evidence is excluded, which can lead to dropped charges—especially in matters involving trafficking, simple possession, or production of drugs.
Entrapment and Raising a Legal Defense
Another possible defence is entrapment. If undercover officers or agents encouraged or pressured you to commit a drug-related crime you wouldn’t have done otherwise, that could be used to dismiss the charges. This defence comes up most often in trafficking investigations and conspiracy cases, where undercover operations are common.
Case Evaluation
Police can’t just stop and search someone without reason. If there was no reasonable suspicion when the police search was initiated, that could be grounds to challenge the evidence. In your case evaluation, I’ll dig into the details of how the stop happened, why it occurred, and whether it holds up under legal scrutiny.
Defense Strategies for Drug Charges and Possession
When it comes to drug charges, particularly simple possession, the Crown must prove that you had knowledge and control over the drugs. Just being near drugs doesn’t automatically prove possession. A good defense strategy will examine who else had access, where the drugs were found, and whether the situation supports a conviction. Many defense strategies focus on creating doubt and weakening the Crown’s version of events.
Fighting Production and Trafficking Charges at Trial
When a trial is necessary, we use every legal tool available. That can mean challenging the admissibility of evidence, scrutinizing the credibility of officers, or questioning how the charges were laid under the criminal code. In some cases, expert testimony or lack of proper procedures can tilt a criminal trial in your favour.
What Comes Next in Your Defence
Every criminal case is unique, and the path forward depends on the facts, the evidence, and how the police conducted themselves. I’ve defended clients against all kinds of drug offences, from possession and trafficking to production and conspiracy. Depending on the situation, alternatices to incarceration such as drug courts or treatment-based programs may also apply. If you're facing charges, the best thing you can do is get a thorough case evaluation and build your defense early.
If you're ready to fight back against criminal charges, I’m here to help. Let’s talk through your options, examine the evidence, and develop the strongest strategy for your trial and your future.
