Drug-Related Offences

Drug-related offences are treated seriously under UK law, with penalties ranging from fines to lengthy prison sentences.
At Astons Law, we specialise in defending clients accused of drug crimes. Our experienced criminal defence solicitors understand the complexities of drug-related cases and are here to provide expert legal guidance.
Below, we’ve outlined the most common types of drug-related offences, including possession, supply, production, and more. If you or a loved one is facing drug-related allegations, contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Possession of Controlled Drugs

Possession of controlled drugs, such as cannabis, cocaine, or heroin, is a criminal offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. The severity of the charge depends on the type and quantity of the drug, as well as the circumstances of the case.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the legality of the search and seizure of drugs
  • Argue lack of knowledge or intent to possess
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or out-of-court disposals, such as cautions

Possession with Intent to Supply

This offence involves possessing drugs with the intention to distribute them to others. It carries much harsher penalties than simple possession, including lengthy prison sentences.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent to supply
  • Argue that the drugs were for personal use only
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or sentencing

Supply of Controlled Drugs

Supplying drugs, whether for profit or not, is a serious offence. This includes selling, sharing, or giving drugs to others.
How we Can Assist You
  • Defend against allegations of involvement in drug supply
  • Challenge the credibility of witness statements or undercover operations
  • Negotiate plea bargains or reduced charges where appropriate

Production of Controlled Drugs

Production offences involve cultivating, manufacturing, or preparing controlled drugs. This includes growing cannabis or producing synthetic drugs like ecstasy.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the evidence linking you to the production process
  • Argue lack of knowledge or involvement in the operation
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or sentencing

Importation of Controlled Drugs

Importation involves bringing controlled drugs into the UK, often in large quantities. This offence is treated extremely seriously and can result in life imprisonment.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the evidence of your involvement in the importation process
  • Argue lack of knowledge or duress (e.g., being forced to transport drugs)
  • Provide expert representation in complex cross-border cases

Conspiracy to Supply Drugs

Conspiracy charges involve an agreement between two or more people to supply drugs. Even if no drugs are actually supplied, the agreement itself is a criminal offence.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the prosecution’s evidence of an agreement or intent
  • Defend against allegations of involvement in a drug conspiracy
  • Negotiate plea bargains or reduced charges where appropriate

Drug Driving

Drug driving involves operating a vehicle while under the influence of controlled drugs. This offence carries penalties such as driving bans, fines, and imprisonment.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the accuracy of drug testing procedures
  • Argue mitigating circumstances, such as prescription drug use
  • Negotiate for reduced penalties or alternative sentencing

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Possession of items such as scales, baggies, or pipes with the intent to use them for drug-related activities can lead to criminal charges.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent to use paraphernalia for illegal purposes
  • Argue that the items were for legitimate use
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or out-of-court disposals

Cultivation of Cannabis

Cultivating cannabis, even for personal use, is a criminal offence. The severity of the charge depends on the scale of the operation.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the evidence linking you to the cultivation process
  • Argue that the cannabis was for personal use only
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or sentencing

Money Laundering (Proceeds of Drug Crime)

Money laundering involves concealing or disguising the proceeds of drug-related activities. This offence carries severe penalties, including imprisonment and asset forfeiture.
How we Can Assist You
  • Challenge the evidence linking you to the proceeds of drug crime
  • Argue lack of knowledge or involvement in money laundering
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or sentencing

Social Supply of Drugs

Social supply involves sharing drugs with friends or acquaintances without financial gain. While treated less severely than commercial supply, it is still a criminal offence.
How we Can Assist You
  • Argue that the supply was non-commercial and without profit
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or out-of-court disposals

Drug Offences Involving Minors

Offences involving the possession, supply, or production of drugs by or to minors are treated particularly seriously by the courts.
How we Can Assist You
  • Provide robust defences for young people accused of drug offences
  • Challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent or involvement
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing

reasons to trust astons law

Extensive Experience: Our team has extensive experience defending clients against drug-related charges
Personalised Approach: We tailor our defence strategies to the unique circumstances of each case
Proven Results: We have a track record of achieving favourable outcomes for our clients

Contact Us today

Don’t let drug allegations ruin your life. Contact Astons Law today for a confidential consultation and let us fight for your rights.