Drug Offence Lawyers
Brisbane & the Gold Coast
Don't Let Your Future Be Defined by a Drug Charge
Facing a drug charge in Queensland is serious, regardless of whether it’s a first offence or a more complex commercial allegation. Our Brisbane drug offence lawyers combine former law enforcement experience with specialist criminal defence expertise to give you the strongest possible representation from day one.
Facing Drug Charges? You're Not Alone
Being accused of a drug offence can feel overwhelming. The legal system is complex, the penalties can be severe, and the consequences of an unrecorded conviction can follow you for years. At Sibley Lawyers, we provide straightforward legal advice and expert representation in Brisbane when you need it most.
Even a first offence can have serious consequences. Depending on the quantity and circumstances, police may allege the drug was possessed for a commercial purpose. If commerciality is established, the matter is determined in the Supreme Court and the penalties can be significant. Where possible, we work to reduce the charge to achieve the best outcome for you.
If this is your first offence and the amount involved is relatively small, you may be eligible for an order under section 19 of the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992, where no conviction is recorded and you are diverted from the criminal justice system. A police caution may also be available.
What is Drug Trafficking in Queensland?
In order to make out the offence of trafficking, the Crown must prove that you were engaged in the business of selling a dangerous drug. This can occur on the back of just one act of supplying a dangerous drug, but usually the instances of supply are more frequent and make up particulars of the trafficking. Just because you have been charged with trafficking, does not mean this is the most appropriate charge. We have had success in many cases of having the charge dropped down to individual supplies. This can make a significant difference for you on the penalty.
We understand the immense pressure and anxiety that accompanies drug charges. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing more than just legal expertise. We’re your partners, your advocates, and your confidants, guiding you through the legal maze with compassion and clarity.
When you choose our drug offence defence lawyer team, you’re not just hiring a legal team; you’re gaining a devoted ally committed to fighting for your freedom and future. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and achieve the best possible outcome.
Our team has a proven track record of success in defending clients against a wide range of drug offences.
Our lawyers have backgrounds in law enforcement, giving us unique insights into the prosecution’s tactics.
We tailor our legal strategies to your specific circumstances, ensuring your rights and interests are protected at every turn.
We understand the emotional toll of facing drug charges, and we’re here to offer you unwavering support and guidance.
Your Dedicated Advocates in the Face of Drug Charges
Sibley Lawyers was founded in 2017 by Justin Sibley, a former practising Barrister who saw a gap in the market for specialist criminal advocacy delivered directly to clients, without the cost and delay of the traditional referral model. Our team includes barristers and lawyers with backgrounds across criminal defence and law enforcement, giving us a genuinely different perspective on how drug prosecutions are constructed and how to challenge them effectively.
We have secured charge reductions from trafficking to supply, achieved section 19 non-conviction orders for eligible first-time offenders, and protected the freedom and reputations of clients across Brisbane and South East Queensland. When you choose Sibley Lawyers, you are choosing direct access to specialist advocacy.
Call Sibley Lawyers today. Your freedom is worth fighting for
Your Future Starts Now
Don’t leave your future to chance. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start building your defence. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explain how we can help. Remember, you are not alone in this fight.
First Offence?
You May Avoid a Criminal Conviction
If this is your first drug offence and the quantity involved is relatively small, you may be eligible for an order under section 19 of the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992. This allows the court to find you guilty but not record a conviction, meaning the charge does not appear on your criminal record for most purposes.
Eligibility depends on several factors: the type and quantity of drug, the circumstances of the offence, your personal history, and whether you can demonstrate genuine remorse and a commitment to rehabilitation.
A police caution may also be available for minor first offences involving small quantities of cannabis. Our team will assess your eligibility for diversion and prepare the strongest possible application on your behalf.
Overwhelmed and Uncertain? Our Drug Offence Lawyer Team is Here to Help.
We understand that facing drug charges can trigger a cascade of emotions – fear, anxiety, shame, and a sense of helplessness. The weight of the legal system can feel crushing, leaving you questioning your next steps and fearing the worst. But you don’t have to manage this journey by yourself.
The Penalties Are Daunting
The potential consequences of a drug conviction – jail time, hefty fines, a tarnished record – can feel insurmountable. We'll fight to minimise these penalties and protect your future.
Your Rights Matter
You have rights, even when facing drug charges. We'll ensure you understand them and that they are upheld throughout the legal process.
The Legal System is Complex
Navigating the legal system is overwhelming, especially when your freedom is on the line. We'll be your guide, explaining each step and advocating for you every step of the way.
Take Control with Experienced Legal Representation
Don't Let a Drug Charge Dictate Your Future
The weight of a drug charge can feel suffocating, casting a shadow of doubt over your future. The uncertainty, the potential penalties, the fear of judgement – it’s a heavy burden to bear alone. But you don’t have to. At Sibley Lawyers, we’re here to lift that weight, offering you a lifeline in the face of adversity.
We understand that every drug case is unique, and we’ll approach yours with the personalised attention and strategic focus it deserves.
We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and explore every legal avenue to minimise the impact on your life.
Whether you’re facing possession, trafficking, or manufacturing charges, we have the experience and dedication to build a powerful defence on your behalf. Don’t let a drug charge define your future. Contact us today and let us help you reclaim your peace of mind and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
But don't just take our word for it
Our Track Record Speaks for Itself
We don’t just promise results, we deliver them. In drug offence matters, we have secured charge reductions from trafficking to supply, achieved section 19 non-conviction orders for first-time possession charges, and successfully challenged the admissibility of evidence obtained through unlawful searches. Read our client testimonials to see what clients across Brisbane and South East Queensland say about our dedication and results.
FEATURED
Queensland Drug Penalties by Schedule
Queensland categorises dangerous drugs into two schedules under the Drugs Misuse Act 1986. The schedule your charge falls under directly affects the severity of the penalties you face.
Schedule 1 Drugs
Schedule 1 includes the most serious dangerous drugs: methylamphetamine (ice), cocaine, MDMA, heroin and LSD. Offences involving Schedule 1 drugs attract the heaviest penalties under Queensland law.
- Possession: maximum 15 years imprisonment
- Supply: maximum 20 years imprisonment
- Trafficking: maximum 25 years imprisonment (life imprisonment if a major commercial quantity)
- Deemed supply thresholds are low: as little as 2 grams for some Schedule 1 powder substances
Schedule 2 Drugs
Schedule 2 includes cannabis, steroids, and certain prescription medications when possessed without a valid prescription.
- Possession: maximum 15 years imprisonment
- Supply: maximum 20 years imprisonment
- Trafficking: maximum 20 years imprisonment
- Cannabis has higher deemed supply thresholds than Schedule 1 drugs, but commercial quantities still attract severe penalties
These are maximum penalties. The actual sentence depends on the quantity involved, your role in the offence, your criminal history, and the circumstances of your arrest. Our drug offence lawyers assess every element of the charge to identify the strongest defence strategy and work to reduce the charge where possible.
Deemed Supply: When Possession Becomes a Supply Charge
One of the most serious escalations in a Queensland drug case is when a possession charge is upgraded to supply based on quantity alone. Under section 57 of the Drugs Misuse Act 1986, if the quantity of a dangerous drug exceeds the prescribed threshold, the law presumes the drug was possessed for the purpose of supply.
This is known as deemed supply, and it reverses the burden of proof. Instead of the prosecution proving you intended to supply the drug, you must demonstrate the quantity was for personal use. Without experienced legal representation, this is extremely difficult to establish.
Deemed supply thresholds vary by drug type. For some Schedule 1 substances, the threshold can be as low as 2 grams. For cannabis, the threshold is higher but still captures many personal-use quantities.
Our drug offence lawyers have successfully challenged deemed supply charges by demonstrating personal use patterns, challenging the accuracy of drug weights and testing procedures, and scrutinising the circumstances of the search and seizure.
Your Rights During a Drug Search
Police in Queensland have specific powers to search for drugs, but those powers have clear limits. Understanding your rights is critical to your defence.
- Police can conduct a search without a warrant if they reasonably suspect you are in possession of a dangerous drug, but reasonable suspicion must be based on more than a hunch.
- You have the right to ask why you are being searched and to be told the officer’s name and station.
- If police search your vehicle or property under a warrant, the warrant must be specific about what is being searched for and where.
- Any evidence obtained through an unlawful search may be excluded from court proceedings.
Members of our team have backgrounds in law enforcement and understand precisely how drug searches are conducted and where procedures can fall short. We scrutinise every aspect of the arrest and search process to identify grounds for challenging the evidence against you.
Your Path to a Stronger Defence Starts Here
Ready to Fight Back?
Our drug offence lawyer team are not just legal professionals; we’re your allies in the fight for your future. We’re all prepared to leverage our experience, insights, and unwavering dedication to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your drug offence case. Take that crucial first step towards reclaiming your peace of mind and securing your future – contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
Our Drug Offence Legal Services in Brisbane & the Gold Coast
At Sibley Lawyers, we understand the complexities and nuances of drug laws. We offer a comprehensive range of specialised legal services tailored to address the specific challenges you face when charged with a drug offence. Our expertise covers a wide spectrum of drug-related offences, ensuring you receive the focused representation you need to protect your rights and future.
Drug Possession in Queensland
Whether you’re facing charges for possession of marijuana, cocaine, or other illicit substances, we’ll meticulously examine the circumstances surrounding your arrest, challenge any unlawful searches or seizures, and build a strong defence strategy.
Drug Trafficking & Supply Charges
Trafficking charges carry severe penalties, potentially including lengthy prison sentences. We’ll investigate every aspect of your case, scrutinise the evidence against you, and explore opportunities to reduce charges or penalties.
Drug Manufacturing and Cultivation
Charges related to drug manufacturing or cultivation demand a strategic defence approach. We’ll analyse the evidence,challenge law enforcement procedures, and work tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom.
Drug Importation and Exportation
If you’re accused of importing or exporting drugs, you need a legal team with a deep understanding of international drug laws and extradition processes. We’ll guide you through the complexities of these charges and advocate for your interests at every turn.
Prescription Drug Offences
Possessing or supplying a prescription medication without a valid prescription can constitute a drug offence under Queensland law. We’ll assess the specifics of your case, identify potential defences, and work to minimise the impact on your life.
Drug Diversion Programs in Queensland
In certain cases, drug diversion programs may offer an alternative to traditional prosecution. We’ll explore your eligibility for these programs and advocate for your participation, potentially allowing you to avoid a criminal conviction and access rehabilitation services.
Your Journey to Resolution
Our Client-Centric Process
At Sibley Lawyers, we believe that facing drug charges shouldn’t mean facing a labyrinth of legal complexities without guidance. We’ve designed a clear, client-focused process to guide you every step of the way, offering transparency, support, and strategic advocacy from start to finish.
Confidential Consultation
We’ll start with a free, private discussion to understand your situation, answer your questions, and outline potential strategies.
Thorough Case Analysis
We’ll meticulously review the evidence, police reports, and any other relevant information, leaving no stone unturned.
Expert Legal Analysis
We assess the strength of the prosecution case, identify any procedural deficiencies, and develop a clear defence strategy tailored to your circumstances and goals.
Personalised Defence Strategy
We’ll develop a customised legal approach tailored to your unique circumstances and goals, ensuring your rights are protected at every juncture.
Tireless Advocacy
Whether negotiating with the prosecution, challenging evidence in court, or exploring alternative resolutions, we’ll fight tirelessly on your behalf.
Transparent Communication
We’ll keep you informed and involved throughout the entire process, providing regular updates and explaining your options in plain language.
We're committed to guiding you towards the best possible outcome, whether that's a dismissal of charges, reduced penalties, or alternative sentencing options. With our drug offence lawyer team by your side, you can face the legal process with confidence and clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between drug possession and drug supply in Queensland?
In Queensland drug possession means having a dangerous drug in your custody or control for personal use. Drug supply includes selling, distributing, giving away, or offering to supply a dangerous drug to another person. Under the Drugs Misuse Act 1986, if the quantity exceeds the deemed supply threshold, the law presumes the drug was for supply unless you can prove otherwise. The penalties for supply are significantly more severe than for simple possession.
Can I go to jail for drug possession in Queensland?
Yes, drug possession may carry imprisonment time in Queensland, regardless of whether the drug is Schedule 1 or Schedule 2. However, imprisonment for a first offence involving a small quantity is uncommon. The court considers the type and quantity of the drug, your criminal history, and the circumstances of the offence. For minor first offences, outcomes such as fines, good behaviour bonds, or section 19 orders (no conviction recorded) are more likely.
What should I do if police find drugs in my car or home?
If police find drugs in your car or home you should exercise your right to silence. You are not required to answer police questions beyond providing your name and address. Do not make admissions or try to explain the situation without legal advice. Contact a drug offence lawyer immediately. The circumstances of how the drugs were found, including whether the search was lawful, can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
How much does a drug offence lawyer cost?
Sibley Lawyers offers a free initial consultation for all drug offence matters. We provide clear fee estimates upfront so you understand the costs before committing. Fees depend on the complexity of the charge, whether the matter is heard in the Magistrates Court or a higher court, and whether it proceeds to trial. We offer fixed fees for straightforward matters.
What is a drug diversion program and am I eligible?
Drug diversion programs in Queensland allow eligible offenders to receive treatment and education instead of a criminal conviction. Eligibility typically requires a minor first offence involving a small quantity for personal use, no violence or other serious charges, and a willingness to participate in an approved program. Our drug offence lawyers will assess your eligibility and advocate for your participation where appropriate.
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Legal Insights
Stay informed about the latest legal developments and gain valuable insights by reading our blog. We regularly publish articles on a variety of legal topics.
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- Author Justin Sibley
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Don't Let a Drug Charge Define You
It’s Time to Reclaim Your Freedom!
You’ve read about our experience, our commitment, our unwavering dedication to securing justice for our clients. Now, it’s time to take the next step. Contact our drug offence lawyers today and let us be the voice that champions your rights.
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