Drug Offences Lawyer Toronto

Drug charges are among the most aggressively prosecuted criminal offences in Canada.

 

A conviction can result in a criminal record, significant fines, lengthy jail sentences, immigration consequences, travel restrictions, and the seizure of property or assets.

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Drug investigations often involve search warrants, surveillance operations, confidential informants, wiretap evidence, undercover officers, and complex police investigations. Many cases also involve allegations relating to firearms, weapons, organized crime, or proceeds of crime, increasing both the complexity of the prosecution and the potential penalties upon conviction.

 

At Michael Coristine Law, we provide strategic, trial-ready defence for individuals facing serious drug allegations, including:

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• Drug Possession

• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking

• Drug Trafficking

• Drug Production

• Drug Importation and Exportation

• Conspiracy Offences

• Drug Offences Involving Firearms or Weapons

• Organized Crime and Large-Scale Drug Investigations

 

Complex Drug Investigations

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Drug prosecutions frequently rely upon extensive police investigations and significant volumes of evidence, including

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• Search warrants

• Wiretap authorizations

• Surveillance evidence

• Cell phone extractions

• Financial records

• Confidential informants

• Undercover operations

• Expert evidence

 

The legality of the police investigation is often central to the defence. Unlawful searches, improper warrant applications, Charter violations, and unreliable evidence can significantly affect the Crown's ability to proceed.

 

Drug & Firearm Allegations

 

In many serious drug investigations, police also lay firearms and weapons charges. These allegations may include:

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• Using a Firearm in the Commission of an Offence (Criminal Code s. 85)

• Using an Imitation Firearm in the Commission of an Offence (Criminal Code s. 85)

• Unsafe Storage or Careless Use of a Firearm (Criminal Code s. 86)

• Pointing a Firearm (Criminal Code s. 87)

• Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose (Criminal Code s. 88)

• Carrying a Concealed Weapon (Criminal Code s. 90)

• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm (Criminal Code s. 91)

• Possession of a Firearm Knowing Possession is Unauthorized (Criminal Code s. 92)

• Possession of a Weapon or Firearm at an Unauthorized Place (Criminal Code s. 93)

• Unauthorized Possession of a Weapon or Firearm in a Vehicle (Criminal Code s. 94)

• Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Weapon with Ammunition (Criminal Code s. 95)

 

Where firearms allegations accompany drug charges, the Crown often seeks more severe penalties and may oppose bail. These cases require a thorough understanding of both the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Criminal Code.

 

Challenging the Crown's Evidence

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Successful drug offence defences frequently involve challenging:

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• Search warrants and police conduct

• Charter violations

• Possession and ownership issues

• Knowledge and intent

• Informant evidence

• Surveillance evidence

• Wiretap authorizations

• Expert evidence and forensic testing

 

Every case requires a detailed examination of the evidence and the prosecution's theory to identify weaknesses and develop an effective defence strategy.

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Experienced Defence for Serious Drug Charges

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As a former Senior Crown Attorney, Michael Coristine has extensive experience handling complex criminal prosecutions involving drugs, firearms, organized crime investigations, and serious criminal allegations. He understands how these cases are investigated, prosecuted, and presented at trial.

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If you have been charged with a drug offence, trafficking allegation, production offence, or a drug investigation involving firearms or weapons, contact Michael Coristine Law immediately. Early legal intervention can be critical to protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future.