The topic of the legality of marijuana can be quite confusing at the moment. With marijuana dispensaries popping up, discussions on medical marijuana, and the potential for legalization of the substance in 2018, it can be quite difficult to keep up to date. Before wandering down to a local dispensary to purchase marijuana, you might […]
Charged with drug possession? Not sure what to do? You’re not alone. Every year thousands find themselves facing drug possession charges, often stemming from carrying small amounts for personal use. Even though changes to Canadian drug laws are forthcoming, simple possession of marijuana is still contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, if not […]
A weapons charge can be a serious offence in Canada. From carrying weapon while attending public meeting to weapons trafficking, there is a wide range of weapons offences, and outcomes can vary dramatically. Bail conditions, probation orders, and peace bonds often carry weapons prohibitions as well. Breaching one of these conditions can result in charges […]
On December 7, 2017, the Supreme Court of Canada released a landmark decision on digital privacy. In the age of digital communications, this decision from our highest court was long overdue. Prior to the decision in R. v. Marakah, the Ontario Court of Appeal ruled there was no privacy interest in a text once it […]
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms entrenched civil rights in the Canadian Constitution. The Charter plays an integral role in criminal law. Section 11 of the Charter protects rights in relation to criminal and penal matters, codifying fundamental concepts considered pillars of the criminal justice system. To name only a few of the rights […]
Television programming and film are replete with examples of characters making false accusations and lying to police during investigations. Perhaps to divert authorities from themselves or to protect someone they know. But what you often don’t see is the consequences of these actions. Being intentionally deceitful to law enforcement has serious consequences. You can be […]
Can the police enter and search your home without your permission? Can you tell them to “come back with a warrant,” as is often seen on American television and film? The subject requires some clarification in the Canadian context. You are entitled to privacy in your own home, but there are several circumstances in which […]
Being charged with a criminal offence can be devastating. Many people believe that because they are innocent, they do not require a lawyer, or that a lawyer is an unnecessary expense. This is usually a mistake. A big mistake. The criminal justice system is not always sympathetic or understanding. The consequences of being found guilty […]
Last week, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act (the Act) received Royal Assent and became law in Canada. This change in the law has the potential to save lives while our country currently faces an opioid crisis. The recent opioid crisis seems largely tied to Fentanyl and its growing popularity amongst drug users. Needless to […]
Recent news headlines on drugs have been split between the Liberal government’s promise to legalize marijuana and the wave of drug overdoses related to fentanyl use. These issues, despite their many facets, are surprisingly straightforward when compared to complex drug investigations and take-downs that also grace the front page of the Toronto Star. Drugs are […]