Dedicated Defence Lawyers for Drug Trafficking Charges in Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and Southern Alberta
Being charged with a drug-related offence can lead to serious consequences, including lengthy federal prison sentences. If you or a loved one is facing a drug trafficking, production, or importation charge in Lethbridge, Medicine Hat or Southern Alberta, it is crucial to seek legal advice and obtain representation from a qualified lawyer.
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At Hadford Defence Group, we understand the severity of these charges and our lawyers are committed to providing vigorous, strategic defences to protect your freedom. Hadford Defence Group takes calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the event of an arrest, from those accused of a crime, their family, and their friends. It is important to be advised of your rights as early in the process as possible. If you, a friend, or a family member has been charged with drug trafficking in Lethbridge or Medicine Hat, book a free consultation today.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Charges in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat
Drug trafficking charges involve the illegal sale, distribution, or transportation of controlled substances. In Canada, drug trafficking charges are taken seriously. If you’re facing drug trafficking charges, the penalties can be severe depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved, as well as the circumstances surrounding the offence.
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In both Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, law enforcement authorities are given significant resources to allow them to pursue drug-related charges, particularly those involving the trafficking of narcotics like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. If you've been charged with a drug offence, it is essential to understand the potential consequences and your legal options.
What Does a Drug Trafficking Charge Entail?
A drug trafficking charge can stem from various activities related to the distribution and sale of illegal substances. This may include:
â–º Selling drugs to others.
â–º Transporting drugs for distribution.
â–º Possessing drugs with the intent to distribute them.
â–º Operating a location or business for the purpose of trafficking drugs.
â–º Importing or exporting drugs across international borders.
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​In Canada, offences involving drugs carry severe penalties, including federal prison terms, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. The specific penalties depend on the drug involved and the quantity in question, but even minor drug trafficking charges can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, it's critical to contact a lawyer who knows how to defend against drug-related charges as soon as possible after you’ve been arrested or when you are at the police station and are given your opportunity to call a lawyer. Everyone in Canada is guaranteed the right to contact their lawyer of choice immediately upon their arrest.
Legal Procedures for Drug Trafficking Charges
When a person is charged with Drug Trafficking in Lethbridge & Medicine Hat, the process generally follows these steps:
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Arrest and initial appearance: The accused person is taken into custody and appears before a judge to hear the charges and consider bail.
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Bail hearing: Factors such as the severity of the alleged offence, prior criminal history, and the potential risk to the public are evaluated.
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Preliminary inquiry or trial: In cases involving serious charges, a preliminary inquiry may determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial.
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Sentencing: If found guilty, sentencing considers both statutory requirements and mitigating factors, such as cooperation with authorities or efforts toward rehabilitation.
Hadford Defence Group provides legal guidance throughout each stage, ensuring clients understand their rights and the procedural steps involved.
The Role of a Lawyer Defending Drug Charges
Hiring a qualified and experienced lawyer is the first step toward mounting an effective legal defence. A skilled lawyer will be able to analyze the evidence against you, challenge unlawful searches or seizures, determine if the substances at issue are indeed prohibited scheduled substances, and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case. A knowledgeable defence lawyer should know how to identify and pursue defences against your charges. That is where Hadford Defence Group comes in. We will fight for you at every level of the process. You deserve to have a lawyer who can effectively challenge the Crown’s case against you.
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At Hadford Defence Group, our team is well-practised in defending individuals facing drug trafficking charges in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat. We take a thorough and strategic approach to every case, ensuring our clients receive the best possible outcome.
Possible Defences to Drug Trafficking Charges
Several defence strategies will be available to a person facing drug-related charges in Lethbridge or Medicine Hat. Common defences include:
â–º Unlawful search and seizure: The evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court if law enforcement did not follow proper procedures during the arrest or search. Our lawyers will explore all the evidence to assess if your rights were violated during the arrest or search.
â–º Lack of knowledge: The government must prove that you had the required knowledge to traffic the substances. This is also called “Mens Rea”. If you were not aware that the drugs were in your possession or did not have the knowledge that they were to be sold or distributed, our dedicated team will ensure that defence is available to you. team.
â–º Lack of intent: If the Crown Prosecutor cannot establish that you physically possessed the controlled substances with the intent to traffic, there are defences available.
â–º Improper identification: If the drugs seized do not belong to you or if you were mistakenly identified as a person of interest, our lawyers will raise this.
â–º Entrapment: A valid defence in certain circumstances could be present if the police’s investigation was not thorough enough to establish you as a valid person of interest prior to their contacting you. Our lawyers will challenge the officer’s investigation if this is the case.
Why Choose Us as a Drug Trafficking Charge Lawyer in Lethbridge & Medicine Hat?
Choosing legal representation for a drug trafficking charge requires consideration of experience, procedural knowledge, and commitment to client rights. Our team strives to:
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Provide experienced legal guidance: Our lawyers are well-versed in Canadian criminal law and the complexities of drug trafficking cases.
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Extensive experience with drug-related offences: We have a strong understanding of how drug trafficking cases are investigated, charged, and prosecuted in Alberta. This allows us to identify weaknesses and develop the ideal defence strategy aligned with the specifics of your case.
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Ensure clear communication: We aim to keep clients informed of their legal options and procedural developments.
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Develop strategic defence plans: Each case is assessed individually, and defence strategies are tailored to your specific circumstances.
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Support clients throughout legal proceedings: From bail hearings to trials, our team provides professional representation at every stage.
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Uphold client’s rights: We strive to protect clients’ legal rights and ensure that all procedural safeguards are observed.
Our focus is on delivering professional, detailed legal support for those facing drug trafficking charges in the Southern Alberta region. Read our reviews to see what some of our clients are saying about us.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one is facing a drug trafficking charge in Lethbridge or Medicine Hat, contact Hadford Defence Group now for professional legal representation. Our lawyers are here to help you defend your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
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