What Is Your Next Step Once You Have Been Charged With A Criminal Offence?
You should seek legal advice from Brydens Lawyers if you have been charged with any drug offence, whether that is drug possession, use or supply. Seeking legal advice is critical not only to defend against the charge but also to mitigate any potential impact on your criminal record and address issues related to drug addiction.
Once you have provided us with the relevant documentation in relation to your charges, we will obtain your instructions and advise you on your particular offence and the type of plea that should be entered.
What Are You Able To Appeal?
Should an offence be proven and you are found guilty, you may be able to appeal the offence within 28 days to a higher Court.
If your offence is proven in the Local Court, you may appeal to the District Court.
If your offence is proven in the District Court, you may appeal to the Court of Criminal Appeal.
The Maximum Penalty For Illicit Drug Offences
The maximum penalty you will face for drug offences will depend on many different factors and the kind of offence you have been charged with. Depending on the circumstances, you may be charged with the following:
Possession: Holding or having drugs on your person or premises without a valid prescription. This is one of the most common drug offences.
Supply and trafficking: Involves selling, distributing, or transporting illegal drugs. The law distinguishes between a small quantity and a commercial quantity, with penalties increasing with the amount of drugs involved.
Manufacturing or producing: Engaging in the cultivation of drug-producing plants (like cannabis) or the production of drugs (such as manufacturing methamphetamine). The severity of the charge can depend on the scale of production.
Importation or exportation: Bringing drugs into or out of Australia without authorisation. These offences typically involve larger quantities of drugs and are dealt with under federal legislation, often attracting severe penalties.
When Should You Consult A Lawyer?
You should consult Brydens Lawyers once you have been provided with the relevant documentation relating to the offences that you have been charged with. After you have received this information, the expert criminal lawyers at Brydens Lawyers will be able to provide you with legal advice and guidance that can help your case.
The area of criminal law in Australia can be complex, and offences relating to serious drug offences can be difficult to navigate for someone unfamiliar with the law. Contacting Brydens Lawyers means that you are taking proactive steps to understand the charges laid against you, the possible outcome of the case, the best way to handle the case, and what kind of plea you should enter into.
What Are The Legal Costs Involved?
Offences relating to the use, possession or supply of illegal drugs are very serious. Brydens Lawyers handle numerous drug offence matters each year. Our criminal lawyers are committed to getting the best result for you. Whether you choose to plead guilty or not guilty, Brydens Lawyers will prepare you thoroughly for court.
Brydens Lawyers will discuss with you in detail the costs likely to be incurred, as they can vary significantly from matter to matter. By being completely transparent with you, we can give you a detailed idea of the potential legal fees involved so that you have a thorough understanding of what to expect.
Why Are Brydens Lawyers The Right Representation For You?
Brydens Lawyers have been operating in NSW for more than 50 years. We have a wealth of experience when it comes to criminal law, and Brydens Lawyers can assist you with representation that will help you work through the complex legal process for drug offences and achieve the best possible outcome.
By engaging a criminal defence lawyer through Brydens Lawyers, you are giving yourself a better chance for success than if you were to undertake this matter without professional legal advice.
