
Opioid overdoses pose a considerable problem throughout Canada. In fact, every part of the country has suffered from what is now being called an epidemic. There were nearly 3,000 deaths apparently related to opioids throughout Canada in 2016.

It doesn't matter where you got them, from whom, or why you have them. If you have opioids and don’t have a valid prescription from a doctor, you are in illegal possession of a controlled substance.

When you are facing criminal charges, the Crown is required to prove that you are guilty “beyond a reasonable doubt.” In addition, the Crown bears the entire burden of proof in criminal cases and the defendant does not have to testify, nor call any witnesses, nor prove anything at all. The burden of proof is on the Crown—and it is a high burden.

Theft charges are serious accusations. Theft, which is taking something that does not belong to you without the permission of the rightful owner, is punishable by as many as 10 years in prison if the value of the property stolen is more than $5,000. Even if the property stolen is less than $5,000, the penalty may still range to as many as two years in prison.