Drug Offences Charges in Toronto
If you have been charged with simple possession, possession for the purpose of trafficking, drug trafficking, production of a controlled substance, and importing in Toronto, 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.
RH Criminal Defence is based in Toronto at 130 Spadina Avenue, Suite 606 — minutes from Old City Hall and the Toronto Region courthouse. Ryan Handlarski defends individuals charged with criminal offences across every category: murder, sexual assault, impaired driving, domestic assault, drug trafficking, weapons offences, fraud, robbery, and more. He has secured acquittals after trial at both Old City Hall and 361 University Avenue in cases ranging from first-degree murder to cocaine trafficking to firearms possession. Toronto is where the firm's practice is concentrated, and familiarity with the local Crown Attorney's offices, court scheduling, and judicial preferences is a meaningful advantage in every case.
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 Toronto
Criminal charges in Toronto are heard at the Old City Hall. 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.