What is Importing?

Have you or someone you care about been charged with Importing? Being convicted of Importing under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) can have serious consequences in terms of sentencing, international travel and employment.

Importing refers to the illegal transportation of controlled substances into Canada. Depending on the type and the amount of the drug involved, the penalties for Importing narcotics can be severe. Those found guilty of importing hard drugs could face life imprisonment.

Under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, a citizen’s constitutional rights are often reduced or restricted at the border. Importing cases are especially complex since the offence originated in another country.

Foreign jurisdictions have different laws and levels of government and police involvement in the lives of private citizens. Once the accused is in Canada, it may be difficult to access evidence pertaining to the case. Witnesses, documents, and other relevant material are now in another jurisdiction. Often, this evidence is out of the reach of Canadian law.

Having a record for a drug offence can have serious repercussions on your life. Given the complexity of this area of law, it is imperative to seek the support of an experienced, diligent defence lawyer.

Depending on the nature and type of contraband, different sentences apply under Section 6 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Furthermore, in certain circumstances, the court can consider such factors as whether an accused while committing the offence abused a position of trust or authority, or had access to an area restricted to authorized persons and used that access to commit the offence.

Caramanna, Friedberg LLP has represented countless of individuals charged with Importing. Please call us 24/7 at (416) 924-5969 for a consultation about how we can help defend your rights if you have been charged.