Drug Offences Charges in Newmarket
If you have been charged with simple possession, possession for the purpose of trafficking, drug trafficking, production of a controlled substance, and importing in Newmarket, the consequences are serious. Penalties vary by substance and quantity. Simple possession of a Schedule I substance (cocaine, heroin, fentanyl) carries a maximum of 7 years by indictment. Trafficking carries a maximum of life imprisonment for Schedule I substances. Production carries up to life imprisonment. Mandatory minimums apply to trafficking and production near schools or involving youth.
The Newmarket courthouse serves all of York Region — one of Ontario's most populous regions. Criminal charges arising in Newmarket, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Aurora, Georgina, and surrounding communities are all heard here. York Regional Police is one of Ontario's largest police services, and the Newmarket court handles a substantial volume of criminal matters. Ryan Handlarski regularly appears at this courthouse and has secured acquittals after trial in sexual assault, drug trafficking, and other serious matters.
How We Defend Drug Offences Charges
Every drug offences case is different, but experienced defence lawyers look for weaknesses in the Crown’s case at every stage. Common defence strategies include:
- Unlawful search and seizure — the police had no legal authority to search
- Charter s. 8 violations leading to exclusion of evidence
- Lack of knowledge — the accused did not know the drugs were present
- Lack of possession or control over the substance
- Entrapment by police or undercover officers
- Challenging the continuity of exhibits or forensic analysis
The Court Process in Newmarket
Criminal charges in Newmarket are heard at the Newmarket Courthouse. Your first appearance will typically be scheduled within a few weeks of being charged. At that appearance, your lawyer will receive disclosure (the Crown’s evidence against you) and begin assessing the strength of the case.