Trusted & Recommended by Clients. LED by Accredited Specialists
4.6 – 120 Reviews
The O'Brien Advantage
Proven Track Record
Our experienced drug lawyers have successfully defended clients against all drug charges, from drug possession, drug supply, to manufacturing. Our drug lawyers have successfully landed victories that demonstrate our firm’s unwavering commitment to protecting our clients' rights.
Drug Lawyers Expertise
Our Sydney drug lawyers have a successful proven track record in this area of the law. We use our expertise in drug laws to carefully navigate the complexities of the legal system to ensure we provide the best drug defence for you.
Personalised Approach
At O’Brien Solicitors, our defence lawyers understand that every drug misuse case is unique. If you seek our representation, an experienced drug lawyer from our firm will take the time to understand your situation and tailor a strategy for you.
Flexible Payment Options
Our Sydney drug lawyers offer flexible payment plans to ensure you can access top-tier legal defence without financial strain. Speak to our drug lawyers today for information on your Legal Aid options. Book a free 15-minute consultation with our criminal drug lawyers in Sydney today.
Criminal Lawyers: Cases We Handle
DRUG POSSESSION
Our defence lawyers provide robust strategies for clients charged with drug possession of prohibited drugs, aiming to minimise penalties, a possible criminal conviction, or achieve dismissals.
DRUG TRAFFICKING
Our Sydney criminal lawyers have extensive experience defending clients accused of drug trafficking of prohibited drugs, focusing on protecting your rights.
DRUG MANUFACTURING
We handle drug manufacture cases involving the production or cultivation of controlled substances and prohibited drugs, ensuring thorough and strategic defence for drug manufacturing.
DRUG IMPORTATION
Our Sydney drug lawyers defend clients against charges of drug importation, which is importing illegal drugs. Our drug lawyers will work tirelessly to protect your freedom and reputation.
OTHER DRUG-RELATED OFFENCES
At O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors, our criminal lawyers handle a wide range of drug-related charges, including conspiracy, distribution, paraphernalia possession, and basically all drug supply charges. Our criminal lawyers have a successful proven track record representing clients for every drug charge.
Meet Our Drug Lawyers Sydney
With over a decade of experience in drug cases, our criminal lawyers have worked tirelessly to make our firm one of Australia’s leading drug defence firms. Led by firm founder and Principal, Peter O’Brien, our dedicated and enthusiastic team has defended clients in courts all over the country, including in the High Court of Australia.
No matter how big or how small your case, a drug lawyer from our firm will always provide you with clear advice and a roadmap to get the best result possible in the most economical way.
Peter O'Brien
Principal Solicitor
Stewart O'Connell
Senior Solicitor
Sidnie Sarang
Criminal Solicitor
Wilson Tighe
Criminal Solicitor
Elliot Rowe
Criminal Solicitor
Bethany Burns
Criminal Solicitor
Timothy Rayner
Criminal Solicitor
Matthew Hudson
Practice Manager
Mark Barnaville
Paralegal
Jackson Phillips
Paralegal
Our team at O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors are led by Law Society Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law and in Civil Law. To become an Accredited Specialist, a practitioner must undergo a structured assessment process. This process requires the individual to utilise their existing knowledge and skills to demonstrate their competency and expertise in their chosen area of law.
The Drug Offence Matter Claims Process
1. Free Initial Consultation
If you are facing a drug conviction, contact O'Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors to book a free 15-minute consultation. Our drug lawyers will assess your situation, explain your legal options, and discuss flexible payment options.
2. Investigating & Building Your Case
Your Case: Our drug defence lawyers will meticulously gather evidence and develop a strategic defence for you. For serious drug offences, this may involve negotiating with prosecutors or preparing for trial for your drug charges.
3. Communication & Updates
Our drug defence lawyers will keep you informed about the progress of your case, explaining legal processes in clear terms. You'll collaborate with your lawyer to review documents and make key decisions.
4. Pursuing a Resolution
Our drug defence lawyers will work tirelessly to defend you in local court – whether that involves negotiating a plea deal, getting charges dismissed, or representing you in court proceedings for all prohibited drug charges.
Remember: Drug law is complex and seeking expert legal advice is crucial. Our experienced drug defence lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way and fight to protect your freedom.
What to Do if You've Been Charged with a Drug Offence
Facing serious drug offences is stressful. Charges for drug possession offences, dealing, manufacturing, or importation of a prohibited drug can have serious legal consequences. Here’s what our Sydney criminal lawyers advise you should do to protect your rights:
- Stay Calm and Compliant
- Remain Silent: Politely inform the police that you wish to remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
- Cooperate with Police: Do not resist arrest or argue with the police about the prohibited drug. Remaining calm and compliant can help avoid additional charges or complications.
- Document Everything
- Record Details: As soon as possible, write down everything you remember about the incident, including the time, location, people involved, and any conversations with the police.
- Collect Evidence: Gather any evidence that may support your defence, such as any photographs, witness contact information, and any relevant documents or receipts.
- Contact a Drug Offence Lawyer Immediately
- Seek Legal Advice: Our specialist drug lawyer will assess your situation, advise you on your rights, and develop a strategy to protect your interests.
- Understand Charges: Your lawyer will explain the charges against you, potential penalties, and your options for defence.
- Bail Application: If you are taken into custody, your lawyer can assist with applying for bail to secure your release while awaiting trial.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case
- Do Not Talk About Your Case: Refrain from discussing the details of your prohibited drug case with anyone except your lawyer. This includes family, friends, and cellmates, as statements can be used against you.
- Social Media: Avoid posting anything related to your case on social media, as these posts can be monitored and used as evidence.
- Prepare for Court
- Legal Representation: Ensure you have a competent lawyer to represent you in local court or higher. Your criminal lawyer will guide you through the legal process, prepare your defence, and advocate on your behalf.
- Court Appearance: Attend all scheduled court dates. Failure to appear can result in additional charges and a warrant for your arrest.
- Know Your Rights
- Right to a Fair Trial: You have the right to a fair trial, including the right to challenge evidence, call witnesses, and testify in your own defence.
- Right to Bail: You have the right to apply for bail, and your criminal lawyer can help you present a strong case for your release.
- Act Quickly
- Timely Action: The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong defence and protecting your rights.
- Evidence Preservation: Swift action helps secure evidence and witness statements that are crucial for defending drug charges.
Remember: Don’t face this alone. Let the drug misuse experts at O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors guide you and fight to protect your freedom and future, whether you are facing charges for drug possession, dealing, manufacturing, or importation in local court or higher.
Voices of Justice: Client Reviews
Read what clients of O’Brien Criminal and Civil Lawyers have said in Google Reviews after we’ve helped clients restore their good names.
Wilson Tighe is the best criminal lawyer in Sydney. I highly recommended him not only for his highly competence in laws but also for his kindness and humanity. We thank him a lot for his help in our matter.
Used O'Brien solicitors for both of my criminal law cases which they managed to get all charges dismissed when I was looking down the barrel of 18 months jail. Then even more impressively ran my civil claim vs the police and I got a very good outcome and substantial pay out. Easy to talk to and actually listened and took my opinion into consideration which is a first. Highly recommend!
Dedicated, diligent and efficient! I had the good luck of being represented by O'Brien lawyers resulting in a favourable outcome. If you are looking for lawyers to represent you in a difficult criminal case, then look no further.
The quality of service provided far exceeded my expectations. The elegance and professionalism in which this firm conducts itself is to be admired. They don't treat you as just another client. I cannot recommend them enough for criminal and civil matters as they excel at both. Special thank you to Peter & Elle, I will never forget the impact this outcome has had on my life.
I recently had to engage the firm to represent me in a criminal matter. I initially liaised with Tim Rayner (criminal paralegal) who assisted with handling my case, whom I found to be professional and always responsive. Elliot Rowe (criminal solicitor) was assigned as my legal counsel. I highly commend Elliot for his consistently methodical and prudent handling of my case and his calm and patient demeanour, which provided some measure of reassurance to me during a particularly distressing period in my life.
I found myself facing the criminal justice system for the first (and hopefully only) time. Contacted O'Brien solicitors based on the number of positive reviews and was put through to Elliot. His patience with me was outstanding, helping me navigate and understand what lay ahead. Never felt rushed. He was very objective and not judgemental in any way. Gave me plenty of options which allowed me to arrive at a fair outcome. At sentencing he spent the whole day with me in court. I consider Elliot to be more an ally not just a lawyer. Can't recommend Elliot highly enough.
Me and my family have been working with O'Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors in regards to representing us for criminal defence in two cases. In both cases our solicitor Wilson Tighe was professional, transparent and provided us with professional advice throughout the procedures. I highly recommend their services to others.
Sidnie was thorough, informative and well versed. Her dedication and attention to detail, and ability to force the truth to be seen, were the reason I got the result that I should have. Highly recommended her and this firm.
O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors have been an outstanding service to me in both criminal and civil matters, if anyone or any organisation needs professional law support, this is an absolute dedication of people who have passionately studied and become experienced experts in getting results, thank you I am so grateful.
O'Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors is hands down the most reliable, understanding and professional firm I have dealt with. Peter, Tim and Wilson have helped me and my family through the roughest time and were able to provide us with an amazing outcome. I would definitely highly recommend this firm to anyone that requires Solicitors that offer professionalism and care. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.
I highly recommend O'Brien solicitors, especially Peter O'Brien and Wilson Tighe. They went above and beyond. Easily contactable anytime I had a question, diligent, kept us up to date and always communicated each step and options with me.
As a client of O'Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors, I am extremely satisfied with the services provided by Tim Rayner and the entire team. From the initial consultation to the final resolution of my legal matter, I have been impressed with the level of professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail demonstrated by everyone involved.
FAQ’s on Drug Offence Law
What type of drug charges do you handle?
At O’Brien’s, we are the best drug lawyers. Our criminal lawyers are well-versed in handling a broad spectrum of drug charges. We provide expert legal representation for serious drug cases, including but not limited to:
- Drug Possession: Representing clients charged with drug possession of illicit substances for personal use. Drug possession is one of the most frequent charges and involves having a prohibited drug in one’s custody or control such as a few pills. The maximum penalty for drug possession is 2 years' imprisonment and/or a $5,500 fine.
- Drug Supply: A drug supply charge includes supplying or knowingly taking part in the supply of prohibited drugs. Penalties for drug supply vary based on the quantity involved. For drug supply charges, penalties range from 2 years' imprisonment and/or a $5,500 fine for small quantities to life imprisonment and/or a $550,000 fine for large commercial quantities.
- Drug Trafficking: Defending individuals accused of transporting, selling, or distributing prohibited drugs.
- Drug Manufacture: Assisting clients facing allegations of producing illegal substances.
- Cultivation of Cannabis: Representing those charged with criminal convictions for growing cannabis plants. The penalties depend on the scale of cultivation, with severe penalties for commercial quantities.
- Drug Importation: Defending against charges of drug importation, i.e bringing in illegal drugs into Australia. At the federal level, under the Commonwealth Criminal Code, trafficking and drug importation of a prohibited drug into Australia can result in severe penalties, including life imprisonment.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia: Representing clients found with items associated with drug use, such as pipes, bongs, and syringes.
- Drug Driving Offences: Defending clients charged with driving under the influence of drugs.
- Conspiracy to Commit Drug Offences: Representing clients accused of planning or conspiring to engage in drug-related activities.
- Prescription Drug Offences: Assisting clients charged with offences involving the misuse of prescription medications.
- Minor Possession Charges: Advocating for clients facing charges for small quantities of a prohibited drug.
What are the potential penalties for drug offences in NSW?
Penalties for drug offences in NSW vary widely depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved, as well as the specific offence.
- For minor possession, first-time offenders may receive a caution or fine, while repeat offenders face up to 2 years' imprisonment and/or a $5,500 fine.
- Supply offences carry heavier penalties, ranging from 2 years' imprisonment and/or a $5,500 fine for small quantities of a prohibited drug to life imprisonment and/or a $550,000 fine for large commercial quantities.
- At the federal level, drug importation or exporting illegal drugs can result in life imprisonment for the most serious cases. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) actively targets drug importation charges for large commercial quantity imports, and recent convictions have resulted in significant prison sentences.
Which acts in NSW are most commonly used for drug offences charges?
The most commonly used legislation for drug charges in New South Wales (NSW) is the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985. This Act covers a wide range of drug misuse activities, including drug manufacture, supply, possession, and use of a prohibited drug and plant. The Act provides the legal framework for prosecuting various drug offences, from minor possession to serious trafficking charges.
In addition to the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act, the Crimes Act 1900 may also be relevant for certain drug misuse, particularly those involving criminal conspiracy or other serious criminal conduct associated with prohibited drug activities. These laws collectively aim to control and reduce the availability and use of illicit drugs in NSW, providing the legal basis for police actions and court proceedings related to drug offences.
In addition to the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act, the Crimes Act 1900 may also be relevant for certain drug misuse, particularly those involving criminal conspiracy or other serious criminal conduct associated with prohibited drug activities. These laws collectively aim to control and reduce the availability and use of illicit drugs in NSW, providing the legal basis for police actions and court proceedings related to drug offences.
How can a drug lawyer help?
An expert Sydney drug lawyer in NSW can assist from the early stages of a case, such as applying for bail, to court proceedings. They provide urgent legal advice, prepare and present bail applications effectively, and strive to secure release.
Our Sydney drug lawyers meticulously review evidence, challenge the legality of searches, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
In court, they challenge evidence, argue for reduced charges, and explore defences like duress or lack of possession. Additionally, drug lawyers may coordinate with rehabilitation programs to support their client's case, aiming for more favourable outcomes.
Whether you're facing drug possession offences or serious drug offences, our drug lawyers work tirelessly to negotiate plea deals, seek reduced charges, or aim for case dismissal. We understand the severe implications of a criminal conviction for using or selling a prohibited drug.
Our Sydney drug lawyers meticulously review evidence, challenge the legality of searches, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Can I represent myself in a drug offence case?
While you can represent yourself in a drug offence case, it is not advisable. Self-representation may lead to unintended consequences, especially if you plead guilty without fully understanding the implications.
A criminal conviction for a prohibited drug can have severe repercussions, including maximum penalties such as substantial fines or imprisonment. O’Briens team of Sydney criminal lawyers possess the expertise to navigate complex legal procedures, challenge evidence, and advocate on your behalf. Our team of drug lawyers have the knowledge that can help protect your rights and minimise the impact on your life.
A criminal conviction for a prohibited drug can have severe repercussions, including maximum penalties such as substantial fines or imprisonment. O’Briens team of Sydney criminal lawyers possess the expertise to navigate complex legal procedures, challenge evidence, and advocate on your behalf. Our team of drug lawyers have the knowledge that can help protect your rights and minimise the impact on your life.
Are there any concessions for first time offender drug offences in NSW?
Yes, there are some concessions available for first-time drug offenders in NSW. The court may take a more lenient approach, considering factors like the absence of prior convictions and likelihood of rehabilitation.
Options include:
Options include:
- Cannabis Cautioning Scheme for minor cannabis possession
- Penalty notice scheme allowing on-the-spot fines instead of court appearances for small quantities
- Conditional Release Orders without conviction
- Section 10 dismissals to avoid a criminal record
What are the most common drugs for drug charges in Sydney and NSW?
The most common drugs involved in drug charges in NSW, Australia are cannabis, methamphetamine (including 'ice'), cocaine, and MDMA (ecstasy).
Recent trends in Sydney show a significant increase in cocaine-related arrests, particularly in the CBD and eastern suburbs. In 2022, Sydney saw a rebound in cocaine use after a two-year decline. Cannabis remains the most frequent drug in possession proceedings, accounting for 57% of cases in 2021. Methamphetamine use has also been on the rise, with weekly or more frequent use increasing significantly in 2022. Overall, drug possession incidents have remained relatively stable over the past five years, with some fluctuations in specific drug types.
Drug Lawyers Sydney
At O'Brien Solicitors, we proudly offer our expert legal services across all of Australia. While our firm is based in Sydney, our dedicated team of drug lawyers is equipped to handle cases nationwide, ensuring that you receive top-tier representation no matter where you are.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with our criminal lawyers today.
Recent trends in Sydney show a significant increase in cocaine-related arrests, particularly in the CBD and eastern suburbs. In 2022, Sydney saw a rebound in cocaine use after a two-year decline. Cannabis remains the most frequent drug in possession proceedings, accounting for 57% of cases in 2021. Methamphetamine use has also been on the rise, with weekly or more frequent use increasing significantly in 2022. Overall, drug possession incidents have remained relatively stable over the past five years, with some fluctuations in specific drug types.
Drug Lawyers Sydney
At O'Brien Solicitors, we proudly offer our expert legal services across all of Australia. While our firm is based in Sydney, our dedicated team of drug lawyers is equipped to handle cases nationwide, ensuring that you receive top-tier representation no matter where you are.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with our criminal lawyers today.
