Best Drug Crime Lawyers in Sydney

About Drug Crime Law in Sydney, Australia

Drug Crime Law in Sydney, Australia, pertains to the possession, use, distribution or manufacture of illicit substances. Australia categorises drugs into different schedules, with varying penalties depending on the schedule, the quantity of drug involved, and the nature of the offence. Charges can range from relatively minor offences such as possession, to more serious crimes like trafficking.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you find yourself facing drug charges, securing legal counsel should be a top priority. Lawyers who specialise in drug crimes can advise you on the best course of action, potentially helping to reduce the severity of your potential penalties or even achieve a not guilty verdict. They can also guide you through the complexities of the legal system, liaise with the court and prosecution on your behalf, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the proceedings.

Local Laws Overview

In Sydney, Australia, there are several key drug laws people should be aware of. It is illegal to possess and distribute illicit drugs, including prescription medications without a valid prescription. The penalties depend on the quantity of drugs in your possession - larger amounts are classified as "traffickable", "indictable", "commercial" or "large commercial" quantities, each with increasing penalties. If caught driving while under the influence of drugs, you may face fines, license suspension, or jail time as per the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act of 1985.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I face charges if I'm caught with prescription drugs?
Yes, if you don't have a valid prescription and are caught with a prescription drug, you can face charges similar to those for illicit drugs.

2. What happens if I’m arrested with a ‘small quantity’ of drugs?
Even small quantities can lead to serious consequences. The specific penalties vary and will generally depend on the type of drug and your criminal history.

3. What is meant by 'drug trafficking'?
Drug trafficking refers to the sale, transport, and import of illegal drugs. It's considered a serious offence and typically carries heavy penalties.

4. What type of drugs are considered illicit?
Illicit drugs include, but are not limited to: marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, ecstasy and any prescription drugs not prescribed to you.

5. Can drug charges be expunged from my record?
In some cases, yes. However, this heavily depends on your charged offence, its severity and whether you have other criminal convictions.

Additional Resources

Those in need of further advice should consider reaching out to Legal Aid NSW or The Law Society of NSW. Meanwhile, for drug addiction support, you can turn to non-profit organisations like the Alcohol and Drug Foundation or the NSW Users and AIDS Association.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with drug-related charges, it's advisable to act promptly. Seek out expert legal advice, understand your charges, and start building your defence strategy as soon as possible. Keep all documentation safe, be prepared to discuss your case in depth, and remember, anything you say to law enforcement could potentially be used against you in court so it may be beneficial to have your legal representative present.