Even relatively “minor” drug charges have criminal fines, jail time, and other potential penalties associated with them. Therefore, no criminal drug charge should be taken lightly, and time may be of the essence in your case. If you have been charged with a Calgary drug crime, you need experienced legal representation in your corner.

At Bourdon Defence, we understand that drug convictions carry serious criminal penalties along with them. Over the past 15 years, the knowledgeable lawyers at Bourdon Defence have represented countless individuals who have been charged with crimes. We can represent you throughout your criminal case and may be able to help you obtain a favourable plea deal. If you are ultimately convicted, our lawyers can advocate for you at sentencing hearings and may be able to help you obtain a reduced penalty. Our aggressive lawyers are fully prepared to provide you with thorough, result-oriented legal representation throughout your criminal case.

Felony versus Misdemeanor Drug Charges

Drug crimes may be classified as either felonies or misdemeanors. The classification depends largely upon the following:

• The amount of the drug at issue
• Whether the charge involves simple drug possession, drug sale, or drug distribution (trafficking)
• The type of drug charge that a criminal defendant incurs plays a large role in the likely sentence upon conviction – and the likely type of plea deal which the Crown prosecutor may place on the table.

Drug Crime Categories

Drugs crimes are usually categorized as drug possession crimes, possession with intent to distribute, and drug trafficking crimes. A person may be charged with drug possession when drugs are found on his or her person – or in that person’s immediate vicinity. If the accused is found to be in possession of a large quantity of drugs (or in cases where drug paraphernalia is found along with the drugs), the accused can be charged with possession with intent to distribute. A person in possession of a large quantity of drugs could also be charged with drug trafficking.

Penalties upon Conviction and Long-Term Effects

The potential penalties upon conviction for a Calgary drug crime depend largely upon the drug classification, the type and quantity of the drug(s) at issue, the circumstances surrounding the drug charge, and the number of prior drug-related offences or convictions sustained by the accused. Drug crime conviction penalties usually include monetary fines, incarceration, probation, community service, and mandatory attendance at drug rehabilitation and treatment programs.

In addition to the potential penalties, a drug charge or conviction can be personally embarrassing and can affect your relationships with family members, friends, and co-workers. A serious drug conviction can also make it difficult to get a job or attend school, given the frequent background checks that employers and educational institutions undertake.

Call a Calgary Drug Crimes Lawyer Today for a Case Evaluation and Initial Consultation

Drug crime convictions can have serious – and potentially lifelong – consequences. Even a relatively “minor” drug conviction has the potential to derail a person’s life. Therefore, it is important to have aggressive legal representation on your side throughout your criminal case. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation with a Calgary criminal defence lawyer, please call us today or contact us online.