Drug Possession and Drug Trafficking Defence Lawyer

Drug possession or trafficking is described as selling, administering, or delivering a controlled substance, along with selling an authorization to obtain a controlled substance.

At Bonn Law, we know that being charged with drug possession or trafficking can have severe consequences, threatening your freedom, reputation, and future. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers are here to stand by you from the moment you call us. We will protect your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and guide you through the legal process with skill, determination, and compassion.

What Happens After You’re Charged with a Drug Offence in Ontario?

If you’ve been arrested for drug possession or trafficking, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or scared. You may be wondering what happens next. In most cases, you will be taken into police custody and either held for a bail hearing or released with conditions. From there, your case will move through the criminal court process, which can include:

Bail hearings
Disclosures of evidence (police reports, witness statements, lab results)
Pre-trial motions (such as Charter challenges)
Negotiations with the Crown
Trial (if necessary)

The good news is that there is a process, and with the right lawyer, you don’t have to face it alone. At Bonn Law, we will be with you every step of the way, explaining your options, protecting your rights, and helping you make informed decisions. We understand how stressful this process can be, and we are committed to guiding you through it with professionalism and care.

Understanding the Legal Implications of Drug Trafficking Charges

The Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) sets out strict rules about drug possession and trafficking. Below are two key provisions that often apply when someone is charged:

1. Possession of a Substance

4 (1) Except as authorized under the regulations, no person shall possess a substance included in Schedule I, II or III.

2. Obtaining Illegal Drugs

(2) No person shall seek or obtain

(a) a substance included in Schedule I, II, III or IV, or

(b) an authorization to obtain a substance included in Schedule I, II, III or IV

from a practitioner, unless the person discloses to the practitioner particulars relating to the acquisition by the person of every substance in those Schedules, and of every authorization to obtain such substances, from any other practitioner within the preceding thirty days.

Penalties For Drug Charges

Penalties for drug charges in Canada vary depending on the charge itself, the substance, and the amount of the drug on your person. Some cases may result in fines or probation, while more serious cases, especially those involving trafficking or larger quantities, can lead to lengthy prison sentences.

The CDSA outlines the exact penalties, which are summarised into different sections of the Act below:

(3) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) where the subject-matter of the offence is a substance included in Schedule I

(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding seven years; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction and liable
- (i) for a first offence, to a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both, and
- (ii) for a subsequent offence, to a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or to both.

(4) Subject to subsection (5), every person who contravenes subsection (1) where the subject-matter of the offence is a substance included in Schedule II

(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years less a day; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction and liable
- (i) for a first offence, to a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both, and
- (ii) for a subsequent offence, to a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or to both.

(5) [Repealed, 2018, c. 16, s. 195]

(6) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) where the subject-matter of the offence is a substance included in Schedule III

(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction and liable
- (i) for a first offence, to a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both, and
- (ii) for a subsequent offence, to a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or to both.

(7) Every person who contravenes subsection (2)

(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable
- (i) to imprisonment for a term not exceeding seven years, where the subject-matter of the offence is a substance included in Schedule I,
- (ii) to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years less a day, where the subject-matter of the offence is a substance included in Schedule II,
- (iii) to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, where the subject-matter of the offence is a substance included in Schedule III, or
- (iv) to imprisonment for a term not exceeding eighteen months, where the subject-matter of the offence is a substance included in Schedule IV; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction and liable
- (i) for a first offence, to a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both, and
- (ii) for a subsequent offence, to a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or to both.

(8) [Repealed, 2018, c. 16, s. 195]

RCMP Drug Guide for Parents

What Are the Consequences of a Drug Possession or Trafficking Conviction?

A conviction for drug possession or trafficking can have serious and lasting consequences, far beyond any jail sentence or fine. In many cases, it can affect your ability to:

Travel internationally (including to the U.S.)
Secure employment or professional licenses
Obtain housing or educational opportunities
Maintain relationships with family or custody of children
Apply for permanent residency or citizenship (if you are not a Canadian citizen)

Even one conviction can follow you for years. That’s why working with an experienced criminal defence lawyer is critical in protecting your future, lowering charges and possibly preventing a conviction altogether.

How We Defend Clients Facing Drug Crimes

To defend against a drug possession or trafficking charge, we carefully review the evidence, listen to your side of the story, and build a strong, strategic defence. We look for errors in the police work, challenge unreliable evidence, and identify any breaches of your Charter Rights during the investigation or arrest.

Here are some examples of drugs that may result in a criminal charge:

Cocaine and crack
GHB
Heroin
MDMA
Methamphetamine
Psilocybin and psilocin (magic mushrooms)

Why Choose Bonn Law as Your Drug Possession Lawyer?

Facing an aggravated assault charge is a serious and life-altering experience. At Bonn Law, we understand the high stakes involved and are committed to providing you with the strongest possible defence.

1. Proven Experience in Criminal Defence

Our team has extensive experience handling drug-related cases, from simple possession to complex trafficking charges. We understand the evidence, the law, and the strategies needed to defend your case effectively.

2. Personalized, Compassionate Support

Every case and client is different. That’s why we take the time to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and support you at every stage. You are never just a file number to us; you are a person who deserves a fair and thorough defence.

3. Strong Track Record of Results

Bonn Law is known for integrity, hard work, and results-driven advocacy. We aim to reduce the impact criminal charges can have on your life, and, if possible, help you avoid a conviction entirely.

4. Local Knowledge and Courtroom Expertise

Based in Belleville, Ontario, we understand the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. This knowledge helps us anticipate challenges and advocate effectively on your behalf.

5. Full-Service Legal Support

From complex evidence analysis to managing multiple charges, our team has the skills and resources to handle every aspect of your case. We work closely together to ensure no detail is overlooked.

Contact Bonn Law Today

If you’ve been charged with drug possession or trafficking, don’t delay getting legal help. Contact Bonn Law now to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Your future is our priority, and we will be with you every step of the way.