Double Doctoring
Accused of Double Doctoring? Get Immediate Legal Protection
If you’re being investigated or charged with double doctoring, the situation can escalate quickly. Police and prosecutors treat prescription-related allegations very seriously, and a single mistake or misunderstanding can lead to criminal charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. With over 10 years of defending drug and prescription-related offences in Brampton, I know how to protect your rights and guide you through this process from the very first moment we speak.
Charged or under investigation? Contact me now for a confidential consultation.
What Is Double Doctoring?
Double doctoring—also known as “doctor shopping”—involves obtaining multiple prescriptions for the same controlled substance from different physicians without disclosing the earlier prescriptions. Under section 4.1 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), this is a criminal offence, even if the intention was to manage pain or replace lost medication.
In many cases I handle, people are charged because they relied on multiple doctors during medical transitions, misunderstood instructions, or were dealing with urgent health conditions. These situations often have explanations that do not involve criminal intent. My job is to bring those explanations forward and protect your rights.
Charges and Penalties for Double Doctoring in Ontario
A double doctoring charge is prosecuted aggressively because it involves prescription opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and other controlled pharmaceuticals. The Crown can proceed summarily or by indictment, depending on the substance, quantity, and surrounding circumstances.
Potential penalties include:
- Fines and probation
- Jail sentences for more serious cases
- A permanent criminal record
- Loss of employment or security clearances
- Immigration complications for non-citizens
- Professional discipline for regulated workers
Once a charge is laid, the system moves quickly. I intervene early to limit exposure, challenge the Crown’s evidence, and work toward withdrawals, reductions, or alternative resolutions wherever possible.
Common Situations That Lead to Double Doctoring Allegations
These charges often arise from situations that appear suspicious on paper but have genuine, non-criminal explanations:
Receiving the same prescription from different doctors
- Miscommunication between walk-in clinics and family physicians
- Lost, stolen, or damaged medication leading to repeat requests
- Pharmacies reporting overlapping prescriptions
- Mental health or addiction issues affecting judgment
- Lack of understanding of disclosure obligations
- Emergencies requiring immediate medical care
If any of these apply to you, there may be strong grounds to challenge the charge or negotiate a favourable outcome.
How I Defend Double Doctoring Charges
Every double doctoring case is unique, and I build a defence tailored to your medical history, circumstances, and the strength of the Crown’s evidence. Common defence strategies include:
- Demonstrating a lack of intent to deceive
- Showing a legitimate medical need for the prescriptions
- Challenging pharmacy or NMS database inconsistencies
- Identifying errors in prescription records or timelines
- Exposing unlawful searches, seizures, or information requests
- Providing documentation of treatment, addiction support, or counselling
- Negotiating with the Crown for withdrawals, peace bonds, or alternative resolutions
With over a decade of experience defending against CDSA offences, I know how to identify weaknesses in prescription-related investigations and leverage them to your advantage.
Evidence the Crown Uses in Double Doctoring Cases
To build its case, the Crown typically relies on multiple sources of medical and investigative data. Understanding these sources allows me to challenge their accuracy and admissibility.
The most common forms of evidence include:
- Pharmacy dispensing history
- Physician prescribing notes and records
- Narcotics Monitoring System (NMS) database entries
- Police interviews and surveillance
- Statements made to pharmacists or medical staff
- Medical records obtained through warrants or production orders
I scrutinize how this information was collected, whether it was interpreted correctly, and whether it actually proves intent.
Your Rights During a Double Doctoring Investigation
Many people unknowingly compromise their defence by speaking openly to doctors, pharmacies, or police before seeking legal advice. You are not required to explain yourself, justify your prescriptions, or give a statement.
You have:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to counsel
- The right not to incriminate yourself
- The right to refuse voluntary interviews
Before you respond to investigators, pharmacists, or medical professionals about overlapping prescriptions, speak with me first. Early guidance prevents mistakes that can be difficult to undo later.
Why Choose Me as Your Double Doctoring Defence Lawyer
For over 10 years, I have focused on defending drug-related offences in Brampton, including prescription fraud, CDSA violations, and all forms of double doctoring allegations. When you work with me, you get:
Direct, personal representation—no associates
- Experience with the medical, investigative, and legal aspects of prescription cases
- A tailored defence strategy designed around your circumstances
- Skilled negotiation aimed at withdrawals or reduced outcomes
- Clear communication at every stage of the process
Your future, reputation, and freedom matter, and I take that responsibility seriously.
What To Do If You Are Accused or Under Investigation
If you believe you’re under investigation or have already been charged, follow these steps:
- Do not make statements to police or pharmacy staff.
- Gather medical documents showing prescription history and treatment needs.
- Avoid contacting doctors to “explain” the situation.
- Write down timelines or circumstances that may support your defence.
- Call me immediately for clear direction on your next steps.
Early intervention often shapes the outcome of these cases.
Get Immediate Legal Help
Double doctoring charges can impact your freedom, career, and future. If you’re under investigation or have already been charged, contact me immediately so we can begin building your defence.
Call now: (437) 998-1429 Confidential consultation available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Double Doctoring
Not necessarily. The Crown must prove intent to deceive. Many cases arise from honest medical misunderstandings.
Often, yes. Demonstrating treatment or rehabilitation may support a favourable resolution.
Depending on the evidence, medical background, or negotiation strategy, withdrawals are possible.
Timelines vary but typically range from a few weeks to several months, depending on disclosure and negotiations.
Yes, but genuine medical necessity can be a strong defence.
Yes. Charges can be withdrawn due to Charter violations, insufficient evidence, lack of knowledge or control, or successful negotiations. Many possession cases do not proceed to trial once properly defended.
In most cases, I can appear on your behalf until the critical stages.