Cooper Hall Solicitors

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enquiries@cooperhallsolicitors.co.uk

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0333 777 5001

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Bradford: Listerhills Science Park, BD7 1HR
Blackburn: Kings Court, BB2 2DH

Drug Offence Charges Solicitors

Defending You Against Possession with Intent to Supply Drugs in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Across England

If you are facing a drug offence charge, the stakes are high. Convictions can lead to severe penalties, including prison time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record that can impact your future. At Cooper Hall Solicitors, we are committed to providing expert legal defence tailored to your case, helping you navigate this challenging time with confidence.

From minor possession charges to complex trafficking allegations, our experienced team of criminal defence solicitors serves clients across Yorkshire, Lancashire, and throughout England. We are here to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

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Understanding Drug Offences in the UK

Drug offences are governed by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and can vary in severity. 
Below are the most common drug-related charges we handle:

Possession of Controlled Substances

Being caught with drugs for personal use. Penalties depend on the type and quantity of the drug, as well as previous convictions.

Possession with Intent to Supply

A more serious charge applied when the police believe you were planning to distribute drugs.

Drug Trafficking

Involves the large-scale supply or distribution of drugs. Trafficking charges often include allegations of conspiracy and are associated with severe penalties.

Drug Production or Cultivation

Charges for growing or manufacturing controlled substances, such as cultivating cannabis plants or producing synthetic drugs.

Conspiracy to Commit Drug Offences

Even if you were not directly involved in handling drugs, allegations of planning or assisting in drug-related activities can lead to conspiracy charges.

Common Weapons Offences

Possession of an Offensive Weapon

Carrying items such as knives, tasers, or batons with the intention of using them to cause harm.

Possession in a Public Place

Being found in possession of a weapon, even if it is not used or intended for use.

Importing or Distributing Illegal Weapons

The unauthorised trade or smuggling of prohibited weapons, including tasers, batons, and certain types of knives.

Possession of Imitation Weapons

Having replicas or imitation firearms that could reasonably be perceived as genuine weapons.

Penalties for Drug Offences

Drug offences in the UK carry strict penalties, determined by the classification of the substance and the severity of the offence:

  1. Class A Drugs: Cocaine, heroin, ecstasy.
  2. Class B Drugs: Cannabis, ketamine, amphetamines.
  3. Class C Drugs: Benzodiazepines, anabolic steroids, prescription medications.

Example Penalties

Possession:

  1. Class A: Up to 7 years in prison or an unlimited fine.
  2. Class B: Up to 5 years in prison.

Possession with Intent to Supply:

  1. Class A: Life imprisonment or an unlimited fine.
  2. Class B: Up to 14 years in prison.

Trafficking and Conspiracy:

Penalties can include life imprisonment, particularly for international or organised operations.

Beyond legal penalties, a conviction can result in:

  1. A permanent criminal record, affecting your ability to travel or work in regulated industries.
  2. Loss of professional licences or visas.

How We Build Your Defence

Drug offences require a meticulous and strategic defence. At Cooper Hall Solicitors, we tailor our approach to your specific circumstances. Here is how we can help:

1. Immediate Legal Advice

If you are arrested, it is crucial to have a solicitor present during police interviews. We ensure your rights are protected from the start.

2. Analysing Evidence

Our team reviews every detail of the prosecution’s case, including:

Search warrants and police conduct.

Witness statements and forensic evidence.

Potential procedural errors or breaches of your rights.

3. Crafting a Strong Defence

Defence strategies may include:

Lack of knowledge: Demonstrating you were unaware of the drugs in your possession.

No intent to supply: Challenging evidence that suggests you intended to distribute.

Unlawful search and seizure: Arguing against evidence obtained through improper police procedures.

4. Negotiating Reduced Charges

We work to reduce charges wherever possible, aiming for alternative outcomes such as rehabilitation programmes, community orders, or fines instead of custodial sentences.

5. Court Representation

Whether your case is heard in a magistrates’ court or crown court, our experienced solicitors will present a persuasive defence, fighting tirelessly to achieve the best possible result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Cooper Hall Solicitors?

Specialist
Expertise

Decades of experience handling all types of drug offences, from possession to large-scale trafficking.

Proven
Track Records

Numerous cases resolved with reduced penalties, alternative sentences, or full acquittals.

Bespoke
Defence Strategies

Every case is unique, and we craft bespoke defences to achieve the best possible results.

24/7
Support

Whether you need immediate advice at the police station or representation in court.

Contact Us Today

Do not let a drug offence charge define your future. Contact Cooper Hall Solicitors for expert legal advice and representation.

 

Call us on 03337775001 or use our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.