The Queen v. V.(C.) 2022

   The client was pulled over near Vernon after a 911 caller had reported his vehicle as driving very erratically and even straddling the lanes of the highway for lengthy periods of time.  Police ultimately pulled the driver over and after some investigation came to the conclusion that he was likely impaired by something other than alcohol.  The client was arrested and taken back to the police station where a drug evaluation expert police officer was waiting to perform tests.  After failing the tests the client was required to provide a sample of his urine for analysis.  The test came back as positive for fentanyl, morphine, and two other over the counter drugs.  The client was charged with impaired driving by drug as well as dangerous driving.  After retaining Mr. van der Walle, negotiations were held with the Crown and thankfully Mr. van der Walle was able to convince the Crown to drop both criminal charges in exchange for the client pleading guilty to driving without due care and attention under the Motor Vehicle Act.  The client received a $1000 fine and was able to keep his driving privileges.  No trial necessary.  Not guilty of all criminal charges.