Ultimate Guide: Drug Charges, Defence & Legal Help from Kolinsky Law

Ultimate Guide: Drug Charges, Defence & Legal Help from Kolinsky Law

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  Confronting Drug Charges inEdmonton A drug charge isn't just a legal case—it's an earthquake threatening your future, family, and freedom. The legal system is designed to convict, not help. Every word, every step can be used against you. But you have a fundamental right: the right to a formidable defence. CLICK TO READ THE COMPLETE GUIDE
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  Understanding Drug Charges: Laws& Penalties Drug charges in Alberta are prosecuted under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Substances are categorised into Schedules, dictating charge severity. The Crown's mandate is conviction, with life-altering penalties. Schedule I Cocaine, fentanyl, heroin. Most severe penalties, especially for trafficking. Schedule II Cannabis over legal limits. Illegal possession or distribution leads to serious charges. Schedule III LSD, psilocybin. Serious penalties for possession and trafficking.
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  The Devastating Consequencesof Conviction Jail Time From months for simple possession to years in federal penitentiary for trafficking. Criminal Record A permanent brand affecting employment, housing, and travel for life. Financial Ruin Crippling fines and loss of ability to work in many professions. Collateral Damage Strained relationships, personal shame, and immense psychological stress.
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  Drug Possession Charges Explained "Possession"has a broad legal definition. You can be charged if drugs are found on your person, in your car, or in shared spaces—even if they aren't yours. Police argue you had "knowledge and control." Key Escalation Factors: • Quantity deemed too large for personal use • Presence of baggies, scales, or cash • Location (school zones carry enhanced penalties) • Prior criminal history Defence Strategy: Attack the foundation of the Crown's case. Was the search legal? If police violated your Charter rights, the entire case can collapse.
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  Drug Trafficking: Higher Stakes Traffickingcharges change everything. The Crown seeks lengthy prison sentences. "Trafficking" isn't just selling—it includes giving, transporting, or offering to distribute. You can be convicted without money changing hands. Evidence Collection Quantity, paraphernalia, financial evidence, surveillance. Crown Prosecution Maximum aggression, pressure for harsh sentences. Your Defence Aggressive, pre-emptive strike against Crown's evidence.
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  Your Journey Throughthe Legal System 1 Arrest & Interrogation Exercise your right to remain silent. Request your lawyer immediately. 2 Bail Hearing First court appearance. We craft a powerful release plan to secure your freedom. 3 Disclosure & Investigation We demand the Crown's complete file and conduct independent investigation. 4 Charter Challenges File motions to exclude illegally obtained evidence. Cases often won here. 5 Resolution or Trial Negotiate from strength or fight for acquittal in court.
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  Defending Against IllegalSearch & Seizure The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms Section 8 protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. If breached, evidence can be thrown out and cases dismissed. Traffic Stop Analysis Was there legitimate reason to pull you over? Was the vehicle search lawful or a fishing expedition? Home Search Review Was the warrant based on credible information? Was execution lawful? Did they exceed warrant scope? Device Search Rights Did police have legal authority to search your phone? Critical area of evolving law. Rights Upon Arrest Were you promptly informed of your right to legal counsel?
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  Alternative Sentencing: Treatment &Diversion Edmonton Drug Treatment Court (EDTC) Rigorous minimum one-year programme for non-violent offenders where addiction is primary factor. • Intensive court-supervised rehabilitation • Regular drug testing and counselling • Life-skills training and community work • Successful completion can result in charges withdrawn Mental Health Diversion For individuals whose offence links to diagnosed mental health disorder. Focuses on long-term treatment and support, diverting from punitive system. Critical: The Crown doesn't simply offer these programmes. Admission requires persuasive advocacy.
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  Life-Long Impact ofDrug Convictions A conviction isn't the end—it's the beginning of a lifelong struggle. Your criminal record is a shadow that follows everywhere, silently closing doors. ∞ Employment Barriers Most employers conduct background checks. Entire fields become inaccessible. 195 Travel Restrictions Countries that may deny entry with criminal record, effectively locking you in Canada. 100% Housing Challenges Landlords routinely screen tenants. Record gives legal reason for denial. Record suspension (pardon) is possible years later but expensive and uncertain. The only sure way to avoid consequences is to avoid conviction.
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  Take Action Now—Contact KolinskyLaw Knowledge alone isn't enough. Action is everything. Every day you wait, the Crown builds its case. Your future begins with a single, decisive step. Call Now +1 780-757-6400 Speak directly with David Kolinsky for immediate assistance. Visit Our Office #212A — 10807 Castle Downs Road Edmonton, AB, T5X 3N7 Email Us [email protected] Secure, confidential communication. David Kolinsky: Edmonton’s Trusted Drug Defence Lawyer. Fierce advocacy, meticulous preparation, unwavering commitment. He doesn't just handle cases—he defends lives, families, and futures.