section 462.1

INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The definition of sell in this part of the criminal code includes all actions related to selling, distributing, or having in possession for sale.

SECTION WORDING

462.1 In this Part, "sell" includes offer for sale, expose for sale, have in possession for sale and distribute, whether or not the distribution is made for consideration.

EXPLANATION

Section 462.1 of the Criminal Code of Canada is an important provision within Part XII.2 of the Code, which deals with the seizure, restraint, and forfeiture of property obtained through crime. This provision defines the term "sell" in the context of this Part, which includes a range of activities that involve the distribution of property for consideration or otherwise. The definition of "sell" in this section includes not only the act of offering an item for sale but also the possession of an item for the purpose of sale, as well as the act of distributing an item whether or not it is done for consideration. This broad definition ensures that the provision can apply to a range of different situations in which property obtained through criminal activity is being circulated in the market. The effect of this definition is that anyone who is found to be engaging in these activities may be subject to the provisions of Part XII.2, which include the seizure and forfeiture of the property in question. This can be a powerful tool for law enforcement agencies seeking to dismantle criminal organizations or disrupt criminal activity by removing the financial incentive for such activity. Overall, Section 462.1 of the Criminal Code of Canada is an important provision that plays a key role in the fight against organized criminal activity and the specific problem of property obtained through crime. By defining the term "sell" broadly, it ensures that the law can be effective in a range of different situations and can help to protect the safety and security of Canadians by taking away the financial benefits of crime.

COMMENTARY

Section 462.1 of the Criminal Code of Canada is a fundamental provision that defines the meaning of the term "sell" for the purposes of Part XII.2 of the Code. This part of the Code deals with offenses related to the proceeds of crime and provides much-needed guidance to law enforcement agencies and prosecutors. Thus, this section is an important tool in the fight against organized crime and other forms of criminal activities. The provision sets out that for the purposes of Part XII.2, the term "sell" includes different activities other than the ordinary meaning of selling goods or services. Specifically, it includes offering for sale, exposing for sale, and possessing for sale. Additionally, it includes the act of distributing goods, regardless of whether or not there is consideration involved. The purpose of this provision is to ensure that the criminal law is comprehensive enough to capture all forms of illicit activities related to proceeds of crime. Activities such as money laundering, trafficking, and smuggling, among others, are often complex and involve the combination of various activities. Thus, limiting the definition of "sell" to only the act of selling or buying goods as it is traditionally understood would prevent the application of the law in many instances. For example, in a money laundering case, the accused may not have been directly involved in the physical sale of the criminal proceeds, but instead, they may have been involved in activities such as transporting, transferring, or converting the proceeds. In such a scenario, the provision would come into play to ensure that such activities are captured under the law. Moreover, the provision is also significant in ensuring that the enforcement of the law is effective. Without it, individual courts would interpret the meaning of "sell" differently, resulting in confusion and inconsistent application of the law. By providing a clear and detailed definition, the provision ensures that there is consistency in the interpretation and application of the law throughout the country. Overall, Section 462.1 of the Criminal Code of Canada is an essential provision for the effective enforcement of Part XII.2 of the Code. It provides a clear definition of the meaning of "sell" and ensures that all forms of criminal activities related to proceeds of crime are captured under the law. It also provides consistency in the interpretation and application of the law, protecting the integrity of the justice system and ultimately ensuring that the proceeds of crime are not allowed to permeate legitimate society.

STRATEGY

Section 462.1 of the Criminal Code of Canada is a critical aspect of drug-related criminal proceedings in Canada. It essentially defines the term sell" and expands it to various activities related to the sale of drugs. In the context of drug trafficking cases, this definition is essential as it enables Crown prosecutors to charge individuals for a wide range of offences related to drug trafficking. One of the most significant strategic considerations when dealing with this section of the Criminal Code is the need for caution. To secure a conviction, Crown prosecutors must prove that the accused individual engaged in activities that meet the definition of sell" in section 462.1. Therefore, individuals charged under this section must be careful to avoid any actions that could be interpreted as selling or distributing drugs. This caution could include getting legal advice, avoiding suspicious activities, and refraining from any potentially illegal behavior. Another important strategic consideration is the need for a rigorous defense strategy. Given the broad interpretation of selling drugs in this section of the Criminal Code, individuals facing charges under this section must invest in a robust defense strategy. A competent defense lawyer will help them to scrutinize the prosecution's evidence, challenge the police work, question witnesses, and explore any defenses available. For instance, a defense lawyer could argue that the accused individual lacked the requisite intent to sell the drugs or that they were acting under duress or coercion. There are several strategies that individuals charged under section 462.1 could employ to fight the charges and secure a favorable outcome. These strategies include: 1. Challenging the search - If the police conducted an illegal search or seized drugs without a proper warrant, a defense lawyer could challenge the legality of the search. If successful, any drugs found as a result of that search would be inadmissible as evidence. 2. Negotiate a plea deal - Depending on the circumstances of the case, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal that reduces the charges or secures a lighter sentence. A skilled defense lawyer can navigate this process to secure a favorable outcome for their client. 3. Raise a defense of entrapment - In some cases, individuals may have been coerced or entrapped into selling drugs. A defense lawyer could argue that the accused individual was a victim of entrapment to secure an acquittal. 4. Secure a pre-trial diversion - In some cases, a defense lawyer may be able to negotiate a pre-trial diversion program that allows the accused individual to avoid going to trial. This could include counseling, drug treatment, community service, or other constructive activities. In conclusion, Section 462.1 of the Criminal Code of Canada is a critical aspect of drug-related criminal proceedings in Canada. Individuals charged under this section must be cautious, invest in a robust defense strategy, and explore all available legal options to secure a favorable outcome. The strategies discussed above are some of the most effective strategies that individuals can employ to fight the charges. Ultimately, the outcome of the criminal proceedings will depend on the quality of the legal defense and the strength of the evidence presented.