R. v. J.C.

(Calgary, P.C. - Possession of drugs). JC was charged with simple possession of fentanyl and methamphetameme/crystal meth.  JC's case was quite troubling and sad because there were clear issues of prolonged substance abuse. All parties, including the police, Crown and the defence were concerned about JC's situation, which included relationships with some problematic friend groups. Though JC's case was defensible, the risk and legal costs were also a concern. In many drug cases involving trafficking or drug abuse, legal costs can place a lot of pressure on the accused -- pressure that can cause the accused to cause further harm to him or herself by having to turn undesirable sources in order to cover the costs of litigation.

Fortunately, JC was very sympathetic. After a "without prejudice" meeting with Prosecutor, the Defence persuaded the Crown to handle JC in a rehabilitative manner. "Without prejudice" means that communications between lawyers can be done in a way that does not harm either sides case. These kinds of communications are very useful in a criminal law context because they facilitate honest communications that can often lead to happy outcomes for both sides. JC's case was dealt with by way of a conditional discharge, with reasonable and achievable terms -- including counselling. 

Counselling is often the goal of rehabilitate sentences. A conditional discharge would ensure -- if JC completed its terms -- no permanent criminal record. This outcome not only permitted JC to participate in some quality counselling, it saved legal fees and the risk of a permanent criminal record.

David Chow is an experienced Calgary drug lawyer. He has defended clients charged with the entire spectrum of drug offences, ranging from simple possession to multi-kilo level cocaine, fentanyl and meth trafficking. David has also successfully defended clients charged with importation. If you have been charged with a drug offence, contact an experienced Alberta drug lawyer. For a free consultation, call 403.452.8018.