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.
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:
Being caught with drugs for personal use. Penalties depend on the type and quantity of the drug, as well as previous convictions.
A more serious charge applied when the police believe you were planning to distribute drugs.
Involves the large-scale supply or distribution of drugs. Trafficking charges often include allegations of conspiracy and are associated with severe penalties.
Charges for growing or manufacturing controlled substances, such as cultivating cannabis plants or producing synthetic drugs.
Even if you were not directly involved in handling drugs, allegations of planning or assisting in drug-related activities can lead to conspiracy charges.
Carrying items such as knives, tasers, or batons with the intention of using them to cause harm.
Being found in possession of a weapon, even if it is not used or intended for use.
The unauthorised trade or smuggling of prohibited weapons, including tasers, batons, and certain types of knives.
Having replicas or imitation firearms that could reasonably be perceived as genuine weapons.
Drug offences in the UK carry strict penalties, determined by the classification of the substance and the severity of the offence:
Penalties can include life imprisonment, particularly for international or organised operations.
Beyond legal penalties, a conviction can result in:
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:
If you are arrested, it is crucial to have a solicitor present during police interviews. We ensure your rights are protected from the start.
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.
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.
We work to reduce charges wherever possible, aiming for alternative outcomes such as rehabilitation programmes, community orders, or fines instead of custodial sentences.
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.
Stay calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and request a solicitor immediately. Cooper Hall Solicitors is available 24/7 to provide legal advice and support during police interviews.
For first-time offenders or minor possession charges, alternatives such as fines, community orders, or drug treatment programmes may be possible. We will work to minimise penalties.
This charge is applied when the police believe drugs in your possession were intended for distribution, often based on evidence like large quantities, packaging materials, or paraphernalia. We will challenge these assumptions.
Conspiracy charges often involve large-scale operations and can result in severe penalties, including life imprisonment. Our team will investigate every aspect of the case to build a strong defence.
The timeline depends on the complexity of the case. Minor offences may resolve in weeks, while serious cases like trafficking could take months. We will keep you informed at every stage.
Decades of experience handling all types of drug offences, from possession to large-scale trafficking.
Numerous cases resolved with reduced penalties, alternative sentences, or full acquittals.
Every case is unique, and we craft bespoke defences to achieve the best possible results.
Whether you need immediate advice at the police station or representation in court.