Drug Production / Manufacturing

Facing a drug production or manufacturing charge can have life-altering consequences—choosing the right legal representation is critical.

Geoff Green is a highly-rated criminal lawyer in Edmonton, Alberta, with over 25 years of experience in criminal and drug law. He understands the complexities of drug offences, the stringent penalties under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), and the importance of protecting your rights and freedoms.

Whether you’re facing allegations of drug production or trafficking, Geoff provides strategic and effective defence tailored to your unique circumstances.

Understanding Drug Production and Manufacturing Offences

Drug production charges involve creating, cultivating, or manufacturing a controlled substance, often resulting in severe legal repercussions.

The Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) outlines strict regulations regarding the production of controlled substances. If you are caught producing a drug like cannabis, methamphetamine, or fentanyl without legal authorization, you may face significant penalties, including imprisonment. Penalties vary depending on the type of drug involved, the scale of production, and whether organized crime was a factor.

Key Factors in Drug Production Cases:

• Controlled Substance Classification: Schedule I substances like cocaine or fentanyl carry harsher sentences compared to less dangerous drugs.
• Intent and Scale: Evidence of large-scale operations, such as laboratories, may result in more severe charges.
• Cultivation: this is a continuing offence which begins when seeds are planted and ends only the plants are harvested. A person may be charged by being a “party” to the offence, meaning taking active steps to assist the primary cultivator.
• Search and Seizure: Illegally obtained evidence during a search warrant execution can weaken the prosecution’s case.

Geoff Green scrutinizes every aspect of your case, from the evidence collected during search and seizure to potential violations of your Charter of Rights and Freedoms, ensuring your defence is robust and thorough.

Penalties for Drug Production Offences in Alberta

The penalties for drug production can be life-changing, with sentences ranging from months to decades, depending on the circumstances.

A conviction for drug production can result in harsh penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences for certain controlled substances. For example:

Type of Drug	Potential Sentence
Cocaine, Heroin, Fentanyl	Up to life imprisonment, with mandatory minimums in some cases
Methamphetamine	Up to 10 years imprisonment or more for large-scale production
Cannabis (Unlicensed)	Fines or imprisonment, depending on the scale of production

Even minor cases can lead to a permanent criminal record, which affects your ability to work, travel, or secure housing. With Geoff Green’s in-depth understanding of Alberta’s legal system, he works to minimize the penalties or have charges dismissed whenever possible.

Defending Against Drug Production Charges

A strong defence against drug production charges requires identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and ensuring your rights are protected.

Building a solid defence often involves questioning the evidence, procedures, and intent. Geoff’s approach includes:

• Challenging Search Warrants: Was the search warrant valid and executed properly? Was it legal on it’s face?
• Examining Evidence: Are the substances truly controlled, and was their production intentional?
• Proving Reasonable Doubt: The prosecution must prove your involvement beyond a reasonable doubt.

With experience in handling drug charges of all kinds, Geoff employs a meticulous approach to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients.

What If You Were Wrongfully Charged?

If you were wrongfully charged with drug production, Geoff Green will fight tirelessly to clear your name.

Mistaken identity, unlawful searches, or errors in evidence collection can lead to wrongful charges. An accused person must know he is producing the particular substance alleged “by any means” to fit the legal definition of production.

Geoff carefully reviews the details of your case, ensuring no procedural mistakes go unnoticed. His commitment to defending your innocence includes filing motions to exclude evidence and highlighting investigative errors to protect your rights.

The Impact of a Criminal Record

A criminal record from a drug offence can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life.

Convictions for drug charges can limit your ability to:

• Travel Internationally: Many countries, including the U.S., deny entry to individuals with drug-related convictions.
• Gain Employment: Employers often hesitate to hire individuals with a criminal record.
• Secure Housing: Rental applications may be denied due to a background check.

Geoff Green works to mitigate these outcomes, negotiating alternative resolutions or pursuing case dismissals whenever possible.

In addition to addressing the immediate legal consequences of drug charges, Geoff Green emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation and support systems for his clients. By connecting individuals with resources such as counselling, substance abuse treatment programs, and job training services, he aims to facilitate their reintegration into society.

This holistic approach not only aids in navigating the legal landscape but also empowers clients to make positive changes in their lives. By focusing on personal growth and development, individuals can work towards rebuilding their reputation and enhancing their future opportunities, ultimately reducing the stigma associated with a criminal record.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Without skilled representation, you risk facing the full weight of the legal system—Geoff Green is here to guide you through it.

Navigating the complexities of criminal law in Alberta requires in-depth knowledge and a strategic approach. Defence lawyer Geoff Green has successfully defended countless clients facing drug-related charges, helping them secure favourable outcomes in even the most challenging cases.

With a reputation built on trust and commitment to his clients, Geoff Green understands that each case is unique and requires a tailored strategy. His extensive experience in the courtroom allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s moves, providing clients with a significant advantage. Whether it’s negotiating plea deals, advocating for reduced sentences, or fighting for acquittals, Geoff is dedicated to ensuring that his clients’ rights are protected at every stage of the legal process.

When you choose Geoff Green as your Edmonton defence lawyer, you can rest assured that you have a passionate advocate on your side, fighting tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Protecting Your Rights During a Search and Seizure

Improper search and seizure tactics can lead to critical evidence being dismissed—Geoff Green ensures your rights are protected.

Police must follow strict guidelines when executing a search warrant. If they fail to respect your Charter of Rights, evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court. Common violations include:

• Conducting a search without proper authorization
• Failing to explain the warrant or your rights
• Using excessive force during the search

Geoff challenges any evidence obtained unlawfully, ensuring it cannot be used against you.

Contact Geoff Green for a Free Initial Consultation

Take control of your future—contact Geoff Green today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

If you are facing drug charges in Edmonton or elsewhere in Alberta, Geoff Green’s decades of experience in criminal defence can provide the support and guidance you need. With a proven track record of successfully defending clients in high-stakes cases, he is ready to help you navigate this challenging time.

Call Geoff Green at (780) 914-1836 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward building a strong defence. Don’t wait—your future depends on the decisions you make today.