- Law Practices
- Drug Offences
Drug Offences in Alberta
Criminal Defence Representation
Drug offence allegations can lead to arrest, search and seizure, and significant restrictions on liberty, even before guilt is established.
White & Jeet Criminal Defence provides strategic representation for individuals facing Drug Offences across Alberta. These cases often involve police surveillance, search warrants, controlled substances analysis, and complex Charter issues that can shape the outcome from the very beginning.
Our defence lawyers represent clients throughout Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, and Red Deer, providing disciplined advocacy when liberty, reputation, and future opportunities are at stake.
Key Takeaways
- Drug Offences are governed primarily by federal law under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
- Charges may involve possession, trafficking, production, or possession for the purpose of trafficking
- Police investigations often rely on search warrants, surveillance, and confidential informants
- Penalties can include jail, fines, forfeiture of property, and a permanent criminal record
- Early legal advice can significantly affect bail, Charter challenges, and long-term outcomes
Criminal Defence Representation Across Alberta
Drug offence investigations frequently involve coordinated police operations, execution of search warrants, and seizure of drugs, cash, vehicles, and electronic devices. Courts in Alberta treat these allegations seriously, particularly where trafficking or production is alleged. Early legal intervention can affect release conditions, admissibility of evidence, and the overall direction of the case.
Understanding Drug Offences
Most drug offences are prosecuted under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. The Act regulates possession, trafficking, importation, exportation, and production of controlled substances, including cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and certain prescription drugs.
Simple possession offences arise under section 4 of the CDSA, while trafficking-related allegations are governed by section 5. Possession for the purpose of trafficking and production offences often carry significantly higher penalties and are treated as serious indictable matters.
Many drug cases turn on Charter issues such as unlawful search and seizure, improper use of confidential informants, and whether police had lawful grounds to detain, search, or arrest. The quantity of drugs, packaging, cash, and surrounding circumstances often play a central role in how charges are framed.
How We Help
- Review search warrants, arrests, and Charter compliance
- Analyze disclosure, surveillance evidence, and informant reliability
- Assess whether possession or trafficking can be legally proven
- Advocate for bail and seek workable release conditions
- Engage the Crown to pursue withdrawals, reductions, or appropriate resolutions
The Defence Process
- Initial review of the charges, disclosure, and police investigation
- Strategic assessment of Charter, evidentiary, and procedural issues
- Court advocacy through bail hearings, applications, and trial proceedings
- Resolution focused on minimizing penalties and protecting long-term consequences
Common Charges & Scenarios
Frequently Asked Questions
Can drug charges result in jail?
Yes. Custody is possible, particularly for trafficking, production, or repeat offences.
Are drug offences prosecuted federally or provincially?
They are federal offences prosecuted in Alberta courts under federal legislation.
Can evidence be excluded?
Yes. If Charter rights were violated during the investigation, evidence may be challenged or excluded.
Are diversion or alternative measures possible?
In some cases, particularly for minor possession offences, alternatives may be available depending on the circumstances.
Speak With a Defence Lawyer
If you are facing Drug Offences, early legal guidance matters. Contact the 24/7 Help Line. Confidential. No obligation.
Request a Free Consultation
Confidential. No obligation. If this is urgent, call our 24/7 Help Line.
Your Life. Your Reputation. Your Defence.
Criminal Charges We Defend in Alberta
Focused defence across a wide range of criminal charges in Alberta.
White & Jeet Criminal Defence represents clients facing complex and high-stakes criminal matters at every stage of the process, from first appearance through trial and appeal. We regularly defend serious violent allegations, drug and controlled substance offences, and financially or legally complex charges across Alberta.
Each case is approached with careful preparation, practical strategy, and a clear understanding of what is at stake. If your matter is urgent, call our 24/7 Help Line. Confidential. No obligation.
Violent & Serious
Criminal Charges
Drug & Controlled
Substance Offences
Financial & Complex Criminal Matters
Your Freedom is Our Priority
Experienced Criminal Defence Lawyers
Being charged with a criminal offence is a serious matter. Your liberty, reputation, and future may be at stake. Before you speak to anyone, you have the right to consult with counsel.
White & Jeet Criminal Defence is a team of criminal defence lawyers with offices in Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, and Red Deer, representing clients across Alberta.
We provide disciplined legal representation, clear and practical advice, and steady advocacy when the consequences are serious and the stakes are high.
Speak to a Lawyer for Free
Experienced legal representation you can rely on when your rights, freedom, and future are at stake.
Request a Free Consultation
Confidential. No obligation. If this is urgent, call our 24/7 Help Line.
Defending Across Alberta
Our Office Locations
Lethbridge, AB
Lethbridge, AB, T1J 0N9
Calgary, AB
Calgary, AB, T2E 7H7
Medicine Hat, AB
Medicine Hat, AB, T1A 0H5
Red Deer, AB
Red Deer, AB, T4N 6X2