What the police may and may not do, what the drug laws now permit, and whether a conviction can be removed. Each question below is answered on its own page, by reference to the law of Trinidad and Tobago.
These questions belong to Criminal Law, the practice page that sets out how such a matter is run.
Last reviewed 22 September 2026
Questions on criminal law
- Can a criminal conviction be removed from my record in Trinidad and Tobago? Apart from a successful appeal, only in narrow cases. A conviction for possessing up to 100 grammes of cannabis, or 14 grammes of cannabis resin, can be expunged by the Commissioner of Police. The Criminal Records (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act 2026 will let many other convictions become spent and be expunged, but it is not in force yet and will not help anyone convicted of serious offences such as murder, robbery or firearms offences.
- Is marijuana legal in Trinidad and Tobago, and how much can I have? Cannabis has been decriminalised in small amounts, not legalised. Since 23 December 2019, having up to 30 grammes of cannabis (5 grammes of resin), or growing up to four plants, is not an offence. Larger amounts, smoking in public, having it where children gather for school, sport or culture, driving under its influence, and selling or giving it away are offences. The Cannabis Control Act 2022, which would license dispensaries, is not in force.
- What are my rights if I am arrested in Trinidad and Tobago? Anyone arrested or detained has constitutional rights to be told promptly why, to an attorney of their choice without delay, to be brought promptly before a court, and to challenge the detention by habeas corpus. You do not have to answer police questions. Ask for your attorney at once, and sign nothing until you have spoken to them.
Important notice. This page is general information about the law of Trinidad and Tobago. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. The law changes, and how it applies depends on the facts, so take advice on your own situation before you act. Court decisions are cited for the principle they state; similar results cannot be guaranteed, and a decision may be subject to appeal or change.
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Commentary / Criminal
Criminal Law in Trinidad and Tobago
By Suraj Sakal, Attorney-at-Law, called to the Bar of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago