Drug Offences

Defending Drug Offence Charges in Edmonton, Alberta

Being charged with a drug offence can have life-altering consequences, including fines, a criminal record, and potential jail time. In Alberta, drug offences like possession and trafficking are taken very seriously, and the penalties can vary based on the type and amount of drug, as well as the intent behind the possession. At Cambria LLP, we offer experienced legal defence for individuals facing drug charges in Edmonton and across Alberta, protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.

Drug Possession Charges

Possession charges involve having an illegal substance on your person or in your control. These charges can apply to various controlled substances, including illicit drugs, as well as some prescription medications if obtained without authorization. Drug possession charges carry penalties that range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the type and quantity of the substance, as well as whether it's a first-time or repeat offence.

Factors in Drug Possession Cases

Type and Amount of Drug. Alberta law considers some drugs more serious than others, and larger amounts can indicate intent to traffic, leading to more severe charges.
Intent and Circumstances. Simple possession is typically a lesser offence, while possession intending to distribute or share can lead to trafficking charges.
Prior Criminal Record. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties. Our team can help argue for leniency or alternative sentencing options, particularly for first-time offenders.

Our Drug Possession Defence Services Include

Review of Search and Seizure Procedures. We scrutinize how evidence was obtained, ensuring that law enforcement followed proper search and seizure protocols. If your rights were violated, we may seek to have the evidence dismissed.
Challenging the Legality of Evidence. We examine the validity of the evidence, questioning whether the drugs were in your possession and whether the evidence is reliable.
Negotiation and Alternative Sentencing. We negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or explore alternative options for minor possession cases, such as drug treatment programs or conditional sentences.

Facing a possession charge? Contact Cambria LLP at 780-540-8100 to discuss your defence strategy with a skilled drug offence lawyer.

Drug Trafficking Charges

Drug trafficking is a serious offence that involves selling, distributing, or possessing large quantities of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute. Trafficking charges carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, and are subject to strict mandatory minimums depending on the circumstances. At Cambria LLP, we provide strategic and assertive defence for individuals facing trafficking charges, ensuring that every possible avenue is explored to protect your rights.

Key Aspects of Drug Trafficking Cases

Quantity and Type of Substance. Large quantities and certain types of drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl, carry harsher penalties and stricter mandatory minimums.
Intent to Distribute. Evidence of intent to traffic, such as scales, packaging materials, or large sums of cash, can result in trafficking charges even if no sale was completed.
Connection to Organized Crime. If trafficking is linked to organized crime, penalties can be significantly harsher. Our team works to separate your case from these associations when possible.

Our Drug Trafficking Defence Services Include

Investigation of Law Enforcement Conduct. We review police conduct during the investigation, looking for procedural errors, entrapment, or improper handling of evidence.
Challenging Evidence of Intent. Our team may challenge the prosecution's evidence of intent to traffic, such as circumstantial evidence or witness testimony, to argue for reduced charges.
Representation in Negotiation and Trial. We negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges where possible and provide assertive representation in court if the case proceeds to trial.

Charged with trafficking? Call Cambria LLP at 780-540-8100 to learn about your defence options and how we can advocate for you.

Penalties for Drug Offenses in Alberta

Drug offence penalties in Alberta can vary widely depending on the substance involved, the amount, and whether it's a first or subsequent offence. Drug charges can lead to significant fines, mandatory treatment programs, a criminal record, and even prison sentences. Understanding the potential consequences can help you make informed decisions about your defence.

Potential Penalties Include

Fines and Mandatory Fees. Drug offences often come with substantial fines, which vary based on the offence severity and the type of drug.
Prison Sentences. Trafficking and possession with intent to distribute can lead to lengthy prison sentences, especially if the case involves large quantities or links to organized crime.
Criminal Record. A drug conviction results in a criminal record, which can impact employment, housing, and travel opportunities.
Alternative Sentencing Options. For less serious offences or first-time offenders, alternative sentencing options, such as drug treatment or diversion programs, may be available.

Facing serious penalties? Contact us at 780-540-8100 to discuss how our defence team can help minimize the impact of drug charges on your future.

Defence Strategies for Drug Offenses

Every drug case is unique, and the best defence strategy will depend on the specific facts and evidence in each situation. At Cambria LLP, we analyze every aspect of your case, from how the evidence was collected to the conduct of law enforcement, to build a defence strategy that protects your rights and challenges the prosecution's case.

Common Defence Strategies

Challenging Search and Seizure. If the police did not have probable cause or did not obtain a proper warrant, we may challenge the admissibility of the evidence.
Lack of Possession. We may argue that you did not knowingly possess the drugs, especially in cases involving shared or public spaces.
Questioning Intent to Distribute. For trafficking cases, we examine whether there is sufficient evidence to prove intent to distribute rather than simple possession.
Violation of Rights. If your rights were violated at any stage of the investigation, we may seek to have evidence excluded or the case dismissed.

Wondering about your defence options? Contact Cambria LLP at 780-540-8100 to discuss your case and learn how we can build a strong defence strategy.

Defend Your Future with Cambria LLP's Drug Offense Defence Services

If you're facing drug charges, having a skilled legal defence team is essential to protecting your rights and future. At Cambria LLP, we help you navigate the legal process, build a strong defence, and pursue the best possible outcome. Contact us at 780-540-8100 to discuss your case with our Edmonton-based defence team and take the first steps toward a secure future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a first-time drug offence lead to jail time?

Jail time is possible for any drug offence, but for first-time, minor possession charges, the court may consider alternative options, such as fines or diversion programs. We work to secure reduced penalties or alternatives to jail time wherever possible.

Will a drug conviction affect my ability to travel?

Yes, a drug conviction often results in a criminal record, which can impact travel, particularly to countries with strict immigration rules like the United States. Our team can help minimize the impact of charges, working to avoid a conviction.

What happens if my rights were violated during the search or arrest?

If your rights were violated, we may be able to challenge the admissibility of evidence or seek to have charges dismissed. Our team carefully reviews police conduct to ensure your rights are upheld.

What's the difference between simple possession and possession with intent to traffic?

Simple possession involves having a small amount of drugs for personal use, while possession with intent to traffic means the person has a large quantity or other evidence suggesting distribution. Possession with intent to traffic carries harsher penalties due to the perceived intent to distribute.

Why Choose Cambria LLP for Criminal Defence?

At Cambria LLP, we recognize that criminal charges can be life-altering, bringing stress, uncertainty, and significant personal consequences. Whether facing DUI, drug offences, assault, fraud, or other criminal allegations, our experienced defence team provides strategic, compassionate, and results-driven representation. With in-depth knowledge of Alberta’s criminal laws and a client-centred approach, we are committed to protecting your rights, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future with Skilled Defence

At Cambria LLP, we provide strategic and compassionate criminal defence tailored to protect your rights, reputation, and future. Whether facing charges for DUI, drug offences, assault, or other criminal allegations, our experienced team in Alberta is committed to minimizing consequences and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.