Drug Offences

Drug offences in New South Wales are treated seriously by the courts and can range from minor possession matters to large-scale drug supply and trafficking offences. These offences include drug driving, drug possession, drug trafficking, drug use, and possession of prohibited or dangerous drugs, all of which can result in significant penalties depending on the type and quantity of the substance involved, the circumstances of the offence, and whether the matter is dealt with in the Local Court or higher courts.

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Drug possession offences generally involve a person having custody or control of a prohibited drug for personal use, while more serious offences such as drug supply or drug trafficking may involve allegations of selling, distributing, manufacturing, or supplying prohibited substances. Police may also charge a person with deemed supply where the quantity of drugs allegedly possessed exceeds the legally prescribed traffickable quantity under NSW law, even if there is no evidence of actual supply.

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Drug driving offences occur where a driver tests positive for the presence of illicit substances while operating a motor vehicle. Police in NSW regularly conduct roadside drug testing, and a positive result can lead to licence suspension, fines, criminal charges, and disqualification from driving. Repeat offences and matters involving aggravating circumstances may attract more severe penalties.

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Penalties for drug offences in NSW can include fines, good behaviour bonds, community correction orders, intensive correction orders, licence disqualification, and imprisonment. A conviction for a drug offence may also affect employment opportunities, travel, professional licences, and future criminal proceedings. In some circumstances, diversion programs or section 10 orders may be available depending on the nature of the offence and the person’s criminal history.

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If you have been charged with a drug offence in Sydney, Liverpool NSW, or elsewhere in New South Wales, obtaining advice from an experienced drug lawyer, criminal lawyer, or criminal defence lawyer is important. A lawyer experienced in drug possession charges, drug trafficking matters, and drug driving offences can advise you about your legal rights, possible defences, court procedures, and the best strategy for achieving the most favourable outcome in your case.