Pubdate: Wed, 28 May 2003
Source: Toronto Sun (CN ON)
Copyright: 2003, Canoe Limited Partnership.
Contact:  http://www.canoe.com/NewsStand/TorontoSun/home.html
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/457
Author: Sam Pazzano

LAWYER: FEDS AT 'CROSS-PURPOSES' WITH COURT APPEAL

On the eve of the government tabling legislation that would decriminalize 
possession of marijuana, federal justice department lawyers are trying to 
resurrect the criminal law by appealing a landmark Ontario Superior Court 
judgment.

"The department of justice appears to be acting at cross-purposes," Ralph 
Steinberg, president of the Criminal Lawyers' Association, said.

The appeal, if successful, would restore maximum jail terms for possession 
to six months. It would be dumped if the tabled law passes.

Two weeks ago, Windsor Superior Justice Steven Rogin upheld a lower court 
decision to quash a possession charge against a 17-year-old because the law 
is no longer valid.

Justice department official James Leising said the appeal and tabled 
legislation both show the government's intention to continue the 
prohibition of pot but without criminal sanctions.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens