Facing a drugs charge? Need a defence lawyer? Call us free on 0800 LEGAL DEFENCE (0800 534253).
The law has different classes of drugs and different prohibitions that apply to them, such as possession, supply, manufacture and importation – whether it’s methamphetamine, LSD, cocaine, ecstasy (MDMA), cannabis, pseudoephedrine, precursors, or any number of other controlled drugs.
A wide range of penalties are imposed for drug offending, depending on the class of drugs and all the circumstances of the case. The most serious drugs charges have a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Even for less serious drugs offending where perhaps a fine is imposed a conviction could affect your ability to travel internationally and it may affect your job prospects.
In most drugs cases the client has been subjected to a search of his or her person, car or home. The client may also have been subject to surveillance or interception of telephone calls and text messages. It may be important to review the lawfulness of these investigations. If the investigation has not been conducted lawfully it may be possible for evidence to be excluded so that it cannot be used in a prosecution.
Ideally you should consider getting legal advice before giving a statement to Police. If you have already made a statement it may be important to get legal advice about it. The statement could be a proper denial, and one which is useful in your defence. If you have admitted anything to Police it may not be as bad as you think. Some people admit committing a crime when the law actually says they have not. Sometimes the admission does not match the charge. It may also be important to consider whether the Police afforded your rights correctly. If the Police did not comply with your rights it may be possible to exclude the statement so it cannot be used in a prosecution.
These are just some of the issues that can arise in drugs cases. You should seriously consider getting legal advice on the particular issues that relate to your case.
If you need help on any criminal matter contact us on 0800 LEGAL DEFENCE (0800 534253).