Beginning on October 17, 2018, recreational cannabis became legal in Canada. Medical marijuana became legal in Canada in the year 2000. However, there continue to be restrictions on where, when, and how you can possess and use marijuana. Violating these regulations can land you in legal trouble.

If you are facing drug charges, a conviction can have serious ramifications. The experienced Calgary criminal defence lawyers at Bourdon Defence can negotiate with Crown prosecutors on your behalf and zealously represent you in the courtroom.

How Can a Person Obtain Medical Marijuana?

In order to obtain medical marijuana in Canada legally, you must do so via mail, rather than obtaining it in-person from a medical marijuana dispensary. You must also be a Canadian who has a qualifying medical condition. Finally, you must meet with your healthcare provider to complete a Medical Document, choose a licenced commercial medical marijuana producer, and register the Medical Document in order to become a client of that producer. Once you register and receive your medical marijuana prescription, you will then be able to place your order directly with your licenced commercial producer. It is important to note that there are medical marijuana dispensaries that operate around the country. However, they are not doing so legally, and you should not obtain your medical marijuana there.

What Conditions Qualify a Person to Obtain Medical Marijuana?

Qualifying medical conditions for medical marijuana include arthritis, anxiety, depression, ADD, ADHD, chronic pain, cancer, epilepsy, eating disorders, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, migraines, loss of appetite, nausea, muscular dystrophy, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and sleep disorders.

How Much Marijuana Is a Person Allowed to Possess?

Medical marijuana patients and recreational users alike can possess a maximum 30-day marijuana supply. The maximum allowed limit is 150 grams. Individuals who are medical marijuana patients are also allowed to grow marijuana themselves.

What Happens if You Are Stopped by Law Enforcement?

A person can consume marijuana in his or her home or on private property in Calgary. If a police officer stops you, you should show the officer the label from the marijuana package in your possession, or the card from the licenced medical marijuana producer from whom you ordered the marijuana.

Talk to a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Calgary Today

Although medical and recreational marijuana use is legal in Canada, there are limitations. If law enforcement stops you in public, you want to make sure that you have the necessary documentation in your possession to show that you validly ordered and possessed the marijuana. Although marijuana has legitimate medical uses, possessing and distributing other drugs, such as cocaine and heroin, can result in serious criminal charges and heavy penalties. If you face charges of illegal drug possession in Calgary, you need an experienced team of lawyers advocating for you. At Bourdon Defence, our lawyers are ready to explore your options with you, fight for your rights, and advocate for all of your legal interests. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation with a Calgary criminal defence lawyer, please call us today at (403) 474-4143, or contact us online.