Drug Crimes Defence Solicitors Paisley & Greenock
A drugs charge however minor can have serious implications for your life, career, travel and more serious cases can and will attract a jail sentence. It is vital you seek advice from the outset if you have been searched, detained or arrested. Our expert Drugs Lawyers are skilled in ensuring your rights are protected and you have the most robust defence available to you.
Drug offences include;
- Possession of Drugs
- Possession with intent to supply
- Trafficking charges
- Production of Drugs
- Supply of Drugs
It is an offence to possess any amount of a drug controlled by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Any substance found will be seized, tested and reported to the procurator fiscal. If you have been charged, seek legal advice at the earliest opportunity.
Many people do not realise that possessing drugs with the intention of simply sharing it with your friends is considered supply or intent to supply. Our drugs lawyers are experts in technically preparing your case, identifying the legal issues surrounding the discovery and seizure of any substance and associated paraphernalia and where possible negotiating your charges with the Procurator Fiscal to reduce or even where appropriate quash them. Our lawyers will fearlessly defend any case which goes to trial to ensure you have the best possible outcome.
If you are charged with being concerned in the production, importation or exportation of a controlled substance, the consequences can be devastating and a conviction will result in a significant jail sentence. Our drugs defence Lawyers in Paisley and Greenock are highly successful in tirelessly preparing the most complex of cases and robustly defending our clients in court.
Drug Offences - Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am charged with a drug offence?
If you are charged with a drug offence, it is essential to seek legal advice immediately. Contact an experienced solicitor to understand your rights, the charges against you, and the potential defences available.
What are the penalties for drug offences in Scotland?
Penalties depend on the type and quantity of drugs involved, as well as the nature of the offence:
- Possession: Fines or imprisonment for up to 7 years (depending on the drug class).
- Possession with intent to supply: Up to life imprisonment for Class A drugs.
- Trafficking or production: Severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
What is the difference between possession and possession with intent to supply?
Possession refers to having drugs for personal use.
Possession with intent to supply involves evidence suggesting you intended to distribute the drugs (e.g., large quantities, packaging materials, or communications about selling).
Can I be charged for being around someone else’s drugs?
You could face charges if you are found in possession of drugs or if there is evidence linking you to their use or distribution. However, being near someone else’s drugs without involvement may not result in a conviction.
Are there defences against drug charges?
Yes, possible defences include:
- Lack of knowledge (e.g., you were unaware the substance was in your possession).
- The substance was not a controlled drug.
- Evidence was obtained unlawfully by law enforcement.
- An experienced solicitor can assess your case and identify the best defence strategy.
What happens if I am caught with drugs at a festival or event?
Being caught with drugs at a public event can lead to charges of possession or intent to supply, depending on the circumstances. Penalties vary based on the type and quantity of drugs involved.
Will I have a criminal record if convicted of a drug offence?
Yes, a conviction for a drug offence typically results in a criminal record, which can impact employment opportunities, travel visas, and other aspects of your life.
Contact our Drug Crimes Defence Lawyers Today
Our Expert Criminal Defence Drugs Lawyers in Paisley and Greenock have decades of experience in fearlessly defending our clients in every kind of drugs case. We cover Glasgow, Greenock, Port Glasgow, Kilmacolm, Gourock, Inverclyde, Renfrewshire, Barrhead, Newton Mearns, East Renfrewshire & every police station and court in Scotland.
Contact us as soon as you have been detained, searched or charged for free, initial legal advice 24 hours per day. Call us in Paisley on 0141 280 7098 or Greenock on 01475 600929 or fill out our online form and we will call you back shortly.
Have the police released you to attend court at a later date? We can advise and appear with you.
You have the right to a solicitor if you have been detained for interview. We will attend or advise you.
Get in touch
We represent our clients daily in any court in Scotland. If you have been charged, we can help.
Make your defence our business. Initial expert legal advice is free! Fill out our online form or call us 24/7.
Call us now
Existing Clients: 0141 889 6458
Existing Clients: 01475 888 286