Possession with Intent to Supply Drugs Solicitors

An allegation of possession with intent to supply can lead to serious Crown Court proceedings and a substantial custodial sentence. Cases often begin with drugs being recovered from a person, vehicle or property, but the presence of drugs is only part of the prosecution case.

The prosecution must prove the necessary possession and knowledge and must also establish an intention to supply the drugs to another person. The evidence relied upon may include quantity, packaging, cash, scales, lists, telephone messages and the opinions of police witnesses.

What evidence may be relied upon?

The prosecution may point to the type, quantity and estimated value of the drugs; how and where they were packaged or stored; cash, scales, bags or other alleged paraphernalia; messages and contacts recovered from a telephone; photographs or alleged customer lists; police observations; forensic links; and evidence about control of a vehicle, room, address or container.

None of these matters should simply be accepted at face value. The evidence must be considered in its full context and tested against the client’s account.

Issues that may arise in the defence

The defence may require close examination of whether the defendant knew that the drugs were present, whether the prosecution can prove control or possession, and whether the surrounding circumstances truly demonstrate an intention to supply.

Where several people use a vehicle or address, ownership and control may be disputed. Where reliance is placed on a telephone, the user of the device or account may be contested. Messages may be ambiguous or unrelated to drug dealing. Cash may have a legitimate source. Forensic evidence may show contact with an item without proving knowledge of its contents.

We consider the lawfulness of searches, continuity and analysis of exhibits, the accuracy of drug and valuation evidence, and whether disclosure has been properly provided.

Role and sentencing issues

If a person pleads guilty or is convicted, the court will consider matters including the type and quantity of the drug and the defendant’s role. The prosecution’s description of a person as having a leading, significant or lesser role can materially affect sentence.

We examine the evidence relevant to role rather than allowing the wider circumstances to define the individual. Personal mitigation, age, vulnerability, exploitation, previous convictions, caring responsibilities and evidence of rehabilitation may also require careful presentation.

Representation at every stage

Peter Bonner & Co can assist with advice at the police station, bail applications, analysis of prosecution and unused material, instruction of experts, preparation for Crown Court trial, advice on plea and mitigation at sentence.

Legal aid may be available. We will explain funding clearly at the outset.

If you are accused of possession with intent to supply drugs, call Peter Bonner & Co on 020 8297 1727 for confidential advice or request a confidential callback.