We have seen people get arrested for drug possession and supplying drugs at an alarming rate. Drugs such as heroin, cocaine, marijuana (aka weed or pot) and most recently, ecstasy, carry heavy penalties.
What are the Penalties?
The penalty for having in your possession a prohibited drug (if it is less than the “indictable quantity”) is 2 years full time gaol and/or a maximum fine of $2,200.00 in the Local Court. Even if you had in your possession the drugs for self administering (unless it is prescripted), this is still a criminal offence. For example, bringing in some ecstasy tablets into a music festival.
Will your matter be dealt in Local Court or District Court?
If you have in your possession drugs with an amount more than the indictable quantity (1.25 grams), your matter will be dealt with in the District Court. There are instances where the matter may be referred to in the Local Court.
Sometimes, the police measure these drugs in its wrapper (tissue, foil or re-sealable plastic bags). We have successfully negotiated with the police to have our clients charged with a lesser amount, and as a result, havethe matter resolved in the Local Court.
At the Criminal Law Centre, we have access to all the right experts. Call us today on (02) 9891 4200 if you have been caught with drugs in your possession.
