Drug Offences

• Possession of a controlled drug
• Possession for supply
• Supply or offering to supply
• Manufacture or cultivation
• Importation

Drug prosecutions often turn on technical and evidential issues, including:

• Whether the substance has been properly identified through analysis (certificate of analysis or expert evidence)
• Whether a search was lawfully conducted
• Whether the elements of possession or knowledge can be proven
• Whether a statutory presumption of supply applies, and if so, whether it can be rebutted

Each of these issues can significantly affect the strength of the case against you, and identifying them early is an important part of building an effective defence.

Sentencing for drug offences varies considerably depending on the class of drug, the quantity involved, and whether the offending is characterised as being for personal use or commercial dealing. Options can range from discharge without conviction or a fine, through to community-based sentences, home detention, or imprisonment in more serious cases.

Drug cases often involve significant amounts of disclosure including text messages, surveillance evidence, financial records, all of which need careful analysis. Early legal advice allows this evidence to be reviewed properly and gives you the best opportunity to understand the strength of the case against you before key decisions are made.