Client receives caution for possession of cannabis

Case study summary

Our client instructed us after he had been arrested for possession of cannabis, a Class B drug, with intent to supply. After we showed the police the reality was simple personal possession, they agreed to a conditional caution and the matter never reached the courts.

Case study

Our client had been stopped by the police after they were alerted to a domestic incident. In the car with him were two family members. All three were arrested and, during a search, the police seized cannabis, £3,000 in cash and a lock knife. Originally, our client was arrested under suspicion of possession with intent to supply. Our client knew this was not the case and needed specialist lawyers to ensure he was not prosecuted. This is why he contacted Mary Monson Solicitors.

Having taken the time to speak with our client, he gave clear and rational explanations to all items seized that date. He explained that the cannabis was for personal use following a severe injury to his back. The cannabis was crucial to helping him sleep and he had a larger than usual quantity as the covid lockdown meant he could not purchase frequently. The cash was wrapped in till receipts and had been collected that day from a family business. This certainly was not proceeds of crime. Finally, the lock knife was a tool he used within the family business to open parcels for each of their shops.

When our client was invited for a second interview, we ensured this logical reality was put to the police. Before the interview began, we had a lengthy conference with them where they agreed that a conditional caution was appropriate here. Knowing this would mean the matter would be resolved on the day, our client was delighted and agreed to this resolution.

Consequently, the conditional caution was given and our client avoided a criminal conviction which could have had a lasting impact on him.