Medical Marijuana Users’ Rights to Choose Confirmed by SCC

Many people find that medical marijuana provides relief where other options have failed. However, until June 11, 2015 – medical marijuana users in Canada could only legally consume their marijuana by smoking it. Many faced a choice – smoke; consume marijuana in other forms (edibles, oils and/or as a tea) and break the law; or, forego the relief of often debilitating symptoms.

Given the nature of smoking marijuana, it is understandable why many find doing so an unacceptable option and would seek to consume their medicinal marijuana in other ways. It is hard enough being sick, and even harder, when consuming your medicine means being further stigmatized.

As such, the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision brings relief to users of medical marijuana who prefer to consume their marijuana by eating or drinking it, rather than by smoking it.

Pain and suffering should not be normalized and the limitation on medical marijuana was found to be an unjustified restriction by the court. The idea that the ruling will “normalize” the use of marijuana is misguided as the users are just as deserving to have access to treatment that works for them as diabetics are deserving of access to insulin. Making insulin more acceptable to those who need it does not lead to abuse – so why assume that making medical marijuana more acceptable to those who need it would lead to abuse?

It should also be noted that costs associated with medical marijuana that is needed in the wake of a personal injury should be included as part of the claim for compensation, as despite the legality, it remains a significant expense for many. League and Williams has experience in getting comprehensive compensation for their client’s personal injuries, including getting compensation for the costs associated with their client’s use of medical marijuana. If you are in need of an experienced, compassionate personal injury lawyer to handle your injury claim – contact us at 250-888-0002 or via email at info@leaguelaw.com.