Three Serious Drug Charges Resolved with $2,000 Fine Following Strategic Defence

Our client facing three serious drug-related charges in NSW, including drug supply, drug possession, and recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime, received a significantly positive outcome after Brightstone Defence’s representation, resulting in a $2,000 fine.

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Case Background: Understanding the Charges and Context

When our client approached us, he had been charged with three drug-related offences in New South Wales, stemming from a “Dial a dealer” incident. The charges included:

• Sale of prohibited drugs (Cannabis leaf) to a buyer – constituting drug supply NSW.
• Possession of a sizeable quantity of Cannabis leaf in a vehicle with the intent to supply – constituting drug possession NSW.
• Recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime in relation to cash located in the vehicle, legislated under section 193B(3) of the Crimes Act 1900.

These charges carried a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment each, reflecting the serious view parliament takes towards drug-related offending.

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Relevant Laws

The charges were legislated under the following laws:

• Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) – Section 25(1) governs drug supply offences. Possession of drugs with intent to supply is considered highly serious, particularly where quantity and distribution are factors.
• Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) – Section 193B(3) governs recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime. Conviction under this section also carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment.

The potential severity of these charges underscores the importance of early legal intervention and strategic case preparation.

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Our Legal Strategy and Case Preparation: Tailored Support for the Client

From the outset, the team at Brightstone Defence prioritised early intervention and tailored submissions specific to our client’s circumstances. This included

• Obtaining a letter of apology from the client.
• Securing a character reference from the client’s brother.
• Providing evidence of visa status, demonstrating the client’s ties and responsibilities.

Ongoing correspondence with the client ensured that all submissions to the court were relevant and addressed his personal circumstances, including his lack of criminal history, good character, and genuine remorse.

Our Special Counsel Ernest Chan led the case, focusing on mitigating factors such as:

• The client’s low financial means.
• His intention to return overseas following resolution of the matter.
• The relative seriousness of the offences, noting that the client’s role was that of a delivery person rather than a key distributor.
• The fact that cannabis leaf carries a maximum penalty of 10 years, which is lower than other prohibited substances (15 years), highlighting legislative distinctions.

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Case Outcome: Outstanding Result Achieved

Following thorough preparation and strategic submissions, our client pleaded guilty to all charges. The court took into account:

• Early plea of guilty, demonstrating accountability.
• Evidence of rehabilitation prospects and lack of prior offences.
• Personal mitigating circumstances including remorse, good character, and visa status.

As a result, the court imposed a fine of $2,000 rather than a custodial sentence.

Additionally, the team at Brightstone Defence secured the release of the client’s passport, enabling him to return overseas without further delay.

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Key Takeaways

This case highlights the importance of:

• Early intervention in drug-related matters.
• Tailoring legal submissions to personal circumstances.
• Understanding distinctions between types of drug supply NSW offences and their penalties.
• Addressing charges of drug possession NSW and recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime with a clear strategy.

Despite the serious nature of the offences and maximum penalties involved, strategic case preparation and effective legal representation can lead to outstanding outcomes, even in complex drug-related cases.

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Get Expert Defence for Drug-Related Charges in NSW

If you or a loved one is facing serious criminal charges such as drug supply NSW, drug possession NSW, or recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime, speak with Brightstone Defence today. Our experienced criminal lawyers provide strategic advice and a robust defence tailored to your circumstances.