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is no longer valid.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.