Drug Related Charges
If you have been accused or charged with a drug related offence in Toronto or in Ontario, forming a strong and thorough defence for your case is critial. Being charged with a drug offense can be a life-changing event that can have serious consequences, including a criminal record, imprisonment, and fines. However, with the help of an experienced criminal defence lawyer, you can mount a strong defence and protect your rights.
Common Drug Charges People Face in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Across Ontario
There are several drug charges that an individual can face in Ontario, including possession, trafficking, cultivation, and production of illegal drugs. The severity of the charges and the penalties depend on the type of drug involved, the quantity, and the circumstances surrounding the offense. For example, possessing a small amount of marijuana for personal use may result in a minor charge, while trafficking large quantities of cocaine can lead to more severe charges and harsher penalties.
Defending Drug Related Charges
When Rishma Gupta defends a drug charge case, she closely examines every aspect of the case including the validity of the search warrant, reviewing if you had ‘care and control’ over the drugs, or discussing the lesser offence of possession instead of trafficking. Further, evidence from witnesses, especially drug dealers or police informants, is not always reliable. Wiretaps and drug paraphernalia may also be dismissed if improperly obtained.
One of the most common defences against drug charges is challenging the legality of the search and seizure of the drugs. In Canada, the police must follow specific procedures when searching for and seizing evidence, including obtaining a search warrant or having a reasonable suspicion that a crime is being committed. If the police violate your rights during the search and seizure process, the evidence may be deemed inadmissible in court, leading to a dismissal of the charges.
Another defence strategy is to challenge the possession of the drugs. The prosecution must prove that the accused had knowledge and control over the drugs to secure a conviction. If there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the accused was aware of the drugs' presence or did not have control over them, the charges may be dismissed.
In some cases, individuals charged with drug offenses may be eligible for diversion programs, such as drug treatment courts, which offer alternatives to traditional court proceedings. These programs can help individuals address their addiction issues and avoid criminal convictions.
Drug Charge Defence Lawyers
An experienced criminal defence lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case, examine every detail, assert any possible defences, represent you at trial or negotiate a plea bargain – if appropriate – and guide you through the criminal court process.
Please read our blog post for more information about the differences in Sexual Assault charges.
You can also view our notable cases to see recent experience in matters related to murder and manslaughter.
Fight your Sexual Assault Charge with a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Toronto.
If you or someone you know is facing a sexual assault charge, it is important to seek the services of an experienced criminal defence lawyer. Rishma Gupta practices exclusively in the area of criminal defence law and has extensive experience in murder and manslaughter defence. Contact Rishma today at 416-844-8467 or rish@guptacriminaltriallawyers.com.