It can be incredibly stressful if you have been charged with a drug offence. However, do not despair, as all cases are different. Two people may not receive the same advice as it all depends on the situation and circumstances. Drug laws are strict and yes, it is a very serious offence. You could go to jail for a long time. Drug offences are usually seen as something that gives rise to other crimes as well and therefore, ruin many lives.

Apart from time in jail, your reputation will be forever tarnished and it can be very difficult to gain employment. Here is some advice that can help you in this difficult time.

1. Find A Lawyer

One thing you will definitely require is the services of a good criminal lawyer. Your lawyer must be experienced in drug charges and must be someone who has a good record in drug cases. A criminal lawyer can be someone who deals in murder cases, rape, arson and so many other offences, so make sure that you find someone who specializes in drug charges.

It does not matter whether you are under investigation or have already been charged; get a lawyer fast as they can give you immediate advice which will be helpful to you. An experienced lawyer will know what works and what doesn’t, so he or she can tackle the problem from the best strategic angle.

2. Speak Only To Your Lawyer

Being a serious offence, you need to play your part and listen to your lawyer. Do not speak to anyone about your case. One thing’s for sure; do not speak to the police about it. You will need to speak to the police for identification purposes, so you will need to divulge your name and address as well as your date of birth.

However, you are not obligated to say anything else. The cops can lie during an interrogation, so be very careful. This is why it’s best not to say anything else and remember, you don’t even have to. The cops want you to say something that will help with their investigation, such as a confession. They can try to pressure you, so don’t make any confessions under pressure.

3. You Can Get Back Confiscated Property

In many drug-related cases, you may have many things seized from you. This includes the drugs themselves, your home, cell phones and even money. You can forget about the drugs as they will be seized and destroyed. However, with the help of a good criminal lawyer, you may be able to get back much of your other possessions.

4. Violation Of Rights

Even the police’s interaction with the public will be reviewed by the legal system. If your Canadian Charter of Rights have been violated, then any evidence that was obtained can be thrown out of court. You will not know any of this which is why a good criminal lawyer can help. Your lawyer will need to make a Charter application but it is vital that you are honest and thorough with your lawyer right from the start to help in your defence.

A criminal lawyer can help you with your particular case. This does not mean he or she will get you off the hook. If you are lucky, that may be a possibility, but if you are in a bad way, your lawyer can help to at least make the most of it and help to make the outcome less damaging.