Pharmacology / toxicology - Cannabis / THC experts

Introduction

Cannabis is a depressant drug originating from hemp plants, its main component being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It is consumed, usually through smoking, for recreational or medical purposes (including as treatment for epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain and palliative care. In Australia, recreational use, possession (depending on which state or territory), cultivation and supply of marijuana are illegal. Since 2016, the federal government has legalised the use of medicinal cannabis.

At the bottom of this profile are brief details of a number of the experts that Expert Experts represents. Call our office to discuss your requirements and to obtain a recommendation that suits your needs and budget.

Expertise in Action

Expert opinion is often required in cases involving the possession, cultivation and supply of cannabis. Most often, experts are required to assess the effect of cannabis ingestion on the actions of those involved in criminal cases or civil disputes.

Sample Reports

For some fields of expertise we have some sample sections of de-identified reports. Please contact our office if you are interested in a sample.

Cost

The overall cost of expert opinion depends on the services required. Some of the key factors that affect the cost of advice include:

• The need for a view or inspection of a location
• The quantity of documentary material to be reviewed
• Whether there are reports of other experts to be reviewed and commented on in detail
• Whether there is a need for conferences with the expert either in person or by telephone/Skype

Relevant Articles Guidance for the use of medicinal cannabis in Australia: Overview

There has been increasing interest over the last few years in the use of cannabis for medical purposes. Governments at both Commonwealth and State and Territory levels have implemented legislative and policy change to allow the cultivation, manufacture, prescribing and dispensing of medicinal cannabis products for patients in Australia.

On the Legality of Cannabis: The Responsibility of the Expert Witness

The possibility that the genus Cannabis comprises more than one species has been a matter for considerable controversy over a long period of time.

Relevant Cases Holcim (Australia) Pty Limited v. Transport Workers' Union of New South Wales [2010] NSWIRComm 1068

Union dispute involving drug and alcohol testing n the transport industry. An expert pharmacologist was required to assess the impact that cannabis had on driver performance.

Gregory v Qantas Airways Ltd [2016] FCAFC 7

Civil dispute where an applicant’s employment was terminated due to their overseas conduct. Pharmacological opinion was required to determine the effects of cannabis on such conduct.

Regina v Howard [2005] NSWCCA 25

Case involving the expert opinion of an officer in the Department of Agriculture in regards to the age of cannabis in a supply offence.

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