Drug offences are regulated by the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Section 5 (1) of the CDSA defines drug trafficking as trafficking a substance included in Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V or in any substance represented or held out by that person to be such a substance.
You can be charged with drug trafficking even if you have not been caught in the act of selling or sharing drugs. Simply being discovered in possession of narcotics with the intention to sell or distribute can elicit a drug trafficking charge.
Call (855) 585-1777 for a free lawyer consultation if you have been charged with drug trafficking.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Laws
Section 2(1) of the CDSA defines traffic as:
- (a) to sell, administer, give, transfer, transport, send or deliver the substance,
- (b) to sell an authorization to obtain the substance, or
- (c) to offer to do anything mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b), otherwise than under the authority of the regulations.
Selling a scheduled substance is not a requirement for being found guilty of drug trafficking. Even sharing drugs with others can result in criminal liability under this offence.
The CDSA Outlines Schedule I to V Drugs
The severity of your sentence depends on the type and quantity of drugs involved. Illegal drugs are categorized into schedules.
Schedule I: Commonly characterized as "hard drugs." They include street drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and opium, as well as numerous pharmaceutical-grade drugs such as oxycodone and morphine.
Schedule II: This category comprises synthetic cannabinoid receptor type 1 agonists, along with their salts, derivatives, isomers, and salts of derivatives and isomers. It is worth noting that prior to 2018, drugs falling under the cannabis family were included in this category, but they are now addressed separately under the Cannabis Act.
Schedule III: Primarily consist of substances from the amphetamine family, including methamphetamine and lysergic acid diethylamide (commonly known as LSD).
Schedule IV: Commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals such as diazepam, benzodiazepine, and anabolic steroids.
Schedule V: Lists no drugs at this time. Drugs that were previously listed include propylhexedrine, which is used medicinally as a nasal decongestant, appetite suppressant and psychostimulant medication.
Get a free lawyer consultation by calling (855) 585-1777 to speak with a criminal defence lawyer about your drug trafficking charge.
Don’t Face Your Drug Trafficking Charge Alone
An experienced criminal defence lawyer is essential when facing a drug trafficking charge. They can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect your rights, and develop a strong defence strategy tailored to your specific case.
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Don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have been charged with drug trafficking. Call (855) 585-1777 and a skilled criminal defence lawyer will discuss your case with you and explore your options.