Drug trafficking offences that our drug defence lawyers provide legal representation for
Our drug lawyers represent clients charged with all types of trafficking offences, these can include:
- Schedule 1 drug trafficking
- Schedule 2 drug trafficking
- Commercial trafficking
- Street dealing
- Organised criminal group trafficking
- Aggravating trafficking offences
Trafficking in dangerous drugs
In Queensland, trafficking is a criminal offence that refers to carrying on a business that involves dangerous drugs. The police need to prove that there is an ongoing activity related to selling and distributing drugs, it does not matter whether you were involved in a large-scale or a low-level operation.
Trafficking can include repeated sales, taking orders, delivering drugs and even organising deals between people. The main difference between trafficking and supplying is the business-like conduct rather than a one off supply of drugs.
What is a dangerous drug?
In Queensland, drugs are classified into two categories; Schedule 1 drugs and Schedule 2 drugs.
| Schedule 1 Drugs (most dangerous) | Schedule 2 Drugs (less serious) |
|---|---|
| Heroin | Cannabis |
| Cocaine | Diazepam (valium) |
| Methamphetamine (ice) | Codeine |
| MDMA | Tramadol |
| LSD | Oxazepam |
The examples above show the different types of substances that are classified as Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 drugs. Compared to other drug offences, trafficking in Schedule 1 or Schedule 2 drugs share the same maximum penalty. When sentencing, the courts will typically consider the type and quantity of the drug, as well as other factors such as the scale of the operation and the offender’s role.
Possible defence strategies for trafficking in dangerous drugs in QLD
- There was no ongoing business activity
- Substance was not a dangerous drug listed under Queensland legislation
- Mistaken identity
- Accused did not know they were involved in a criminal organisation
What are the maximum penalties for drug trafficking in QLD?
The maximum penalty for trafficking in dangerous drugs is life imprisonment.
In real world practice, the penalty of life imprisonment is the maximum penalty the courts can impose on an offender accused of trafficking. The court will take into consideration a range of factors when sentencing a person:
- Type of drugs
- Duration and scale of operation
- Aggravating factors
- Level of involvement
- Prior criminal history
- Personal background
- Amount of profit made
According to the Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council, between 2005 and 2016, the majority of people convicted of trafficking in dangerous drugs received a custodial sentence (99.1%). Prison terms ranged from 3 months to 17 years. The average sentence length was 4.6 years imprisonment.
Seeking legal advice for trafficking in dangerous drugs is essential in receiving the best outcome possible in court, contact us on 1300 11 22 12.
What other consequences could you face following drug trafficking charges in QLD?
- Loss of assets: Under Queensland legislation, prosecution may apply for a forfeiture order to confiscate assets believed to be in connection with drug offences.
- Recorded criminal conviction: If convicted for trafficking in dangerous drugs, you will have a conviction recorded against your criminal record. This can affect employment opportunities, professional licensing and overseas travel to specific countries.
- Quantity of drugs: Trafficking and producing large quantities of Schedule 1 drugs can increase the severity of penalties, trafficking in Schedule 2 can have the same result depending on the amount of drugs trafficked.
- Involvement in organised crime: Under Queensland Legislation, it is an aggravating offence to be involved in a criminal organisation while trafficking dangerous drugs. The courts will impose a heavier sentence if the offence was carried out under the direction of, in association with or for the benefit of a criminal organisation group.
- Parole restrictions: Under Queensland Legislation, if you’re sentenced to more than 10 years imprisonment for trafficking it will be considered a ‘serious violent offence’ (SVO). This means an offender must serve 80% of their sentence to be eligible for parole. The courts also have the discretion to impose the SVO if the sentence is less than 10 years and involves serious aggravating factors.
Why choose Donnelly Law Group to defend your drug trafficking charges in QLD?
Extensive experience defending drug trafficking charges across Brisbane, Gold Coast & Regional Queensland
At Donnelly Law Group, we have extensive experience in defending drug trafficking charges across Brisbane, Gold Coast and Regional Queensland. 2
We are able to defend anyone living rurally or regionally, feel free to contact us on 1300 11 22 12 for a free confidential consultation.
Local expertise
Our expert drug lawyers appear at local courts every day across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. We have strong relationships with court staff and police prosecutions, we leverage our relationships to ensure you receive the best outcome possible.
Personalised approach for every drug supply charge to help achieve the best outcome for our clients
At Donnelly Law Group, our firm is known for our personalised approach with every client. We take the time to get to know you and understand your unique circumstances.
Book An Appointment.
Our legal strategy for drug trafficking offences across Brisbane & Gold Coast (QLD)
Our legal strategy is to ensure you receive the best possible outcome in court. We achieve this by getting to know you, reviewing the police facts, developing a defence strategy and then advocating for you in court.
Initial consultation
During the initial free consultation, our lawyers will get to understand you and review your unique circumstances.
Case assessment
After onboarding, our lawyers will review the alleged facts from police (QP9) and determine the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecutions case.
Developing a defence strategy
After reviewing the facts and taking your instructions, our lawyers will craft a defence strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Court representation
Our experienced drug lawyers will appear in court on your behalf, we will present your case professionally before a magistrate, achieving the best outcome possible.
Drug trafficking charges FAQs
What should I do if the police want to talk to me about a drug trafficking offence?
If the police want to talk to you about a drug trafficking offence
Do I need a lawyer for a drug trafficking charge?
Yes. Drug trafficking charges are complex and carry serious penalties in Queensland. A lawyer can help you understand the charges brought against you, explore possible defences and represent you in court working towards a positive outcome.
When should I contact a lawyer about my drug trafficking charges?
You should contact a lawyer ASAP after being charged.
Will my drug trafficking offence lawyer represent me in court?
Yes. Our lawyers will represent you in court
What legislation covers drug trafficking offences in Queensland?
Drugs Misuse Act 1986 (Qld)
What are the penalties for drug trafficking offences in Queensland?
The maximum penalty for trafficking in dangerous drugs is life imprisonment.
How much does it cost to hire a drug trafficking offence lawyer from Donnelly Law Group?
We offer fixed fees so you’ll know exactly how much your matter will cost without any hidden surprises. You also have the ability to pay off your fees by instalments, as long as it’s finalised before the final court date.
Call us on 1300 11 22 12 for a free initial consultation and a quote.
Can Donnelly Law Group help me with drug trafficking offences outside of Brisbane & Gold Coast?
Yes. We regularly represent clients that live rurally or regionally across Queensland.
