Adolescence is a time when many youth start engaging in romantic and/or sexual relationships. It is also common for adolescents to begin experimenting with the use of drugs and alcohol. Drugs and alcohol impact people’s ability to make decisions and respond to situations, and can therefore impact a person’s ability to consent to sexual activities. This document outlines what Canadian law says about consent and the use of drugs and alcohol. It is intended to support caring adults working with adolescents who may have questions about these experiences and the legalities surrounding them