Possession of Class A & B drugs - Small Fine Obtained

Case study summary

Following a search of his vehicle, our client was charged with possession of class A and B drugs. Our client accepted that he was in possession of cocaine and cannabis. We prepared mitigation on the client's behalf and he received a small fine.

Case study

Our client instructed us following his arrest and charge for possession of class A and B drugs. The client had informed that he was travelling in his vehicle, when the police attempted to pull him over, after they noticed that he had thrown items out of his car window.

On search of the vehicle, the police found empty snap bags, Cannabis and Cocaine. He was subsequently arrested and charged. When considering the sentencing guidelines in this case, the client was at risk of receiving a custodial sentence.

We took initial instructions from the client and he accepted that he was in possession of the drugs. He explained that he had been using them to self-medicate after suffering a violent attack, which resulted in him being diagnosed with depression and PTSD. Prior to this charge, the client was a man of good character, who had no previous dealing with the criminal justice system.

We began preparing the case for sentencing and took full instructions from the client, including details of his family relationships, education, medical history and any significant events in his life. We also collected numerous character references, which detailed the his good character, and collected evidence of the client's attempts to receive help with his drug use.

At his sentencing hearing, the client was represented by the Director of our firm, Liam Kotrie. Mr Kotrie mitigated on the client's behalf and he was sentenced to pay only a small fine.