Charged with Drug Trafficking
If you're arrested or charged with drug trafficking or drug dealing, contact criminal defence solicitors in London at 0203 959 7755 for urgent legal help.
Our experienced criminal defence solicitors will assess your case, explain your available options, and guide you through the legal proceedings.
Wherever you are, our team of specialist drug offence defence solicitors provides expert advice and legal representation across England and Wales.
Table of Contents
- What is drug trafficking in the UK?
- Penalties for drug trafficking in the UK
- Mitigating factors in drug trafficking cases
- Aggravating factors in drug trafficking cases
- Defences against drug trafficking charges
- Can I be charged with drug trafficking for simply possessing drugs?
- What is the difference between drug possession and drug trafficking?
- Can I be charged with trafficking if I didn't sell the drugs?
- What should I do if I am charged with drug trafficking?
- Can I get bail if I'm charged with drug trafficking?
- What happens during a drug trafficking trial?
- Can a drug trafficking conviction be appealed?
- Can drug trafficking charges be dropped?
- How can a lawyer help if I’m charged with drug trafficking?
- Why choose our drug offences solicitors in London?
- How to contact drug trafficking defence solicitors
What is drug trafficking in the UK?
Drug trafficking, also known as the illegal drug trade or narcotrafficking involves the production, distribution, transportation, or sale of illegal drugs.
In the UK, drug trafficking is a serious offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, often leading to severe penalties and lengthy imprisonment.
Penalties for drug trafficking in the UK
Penalties for drug trafficking depend on the class and quantity of drugs involved.
The maximum sentences for drug trafficking are:
- Class A: Life imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine
- Class B: Up to 14 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine
- Class C: Up to 14 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine
Mitigating factors in drug trafficking cases
Mitigating factors help reduce sentences by presenting evidence of lower culpability or exceptional circumstances.
In drug trafficking cases, courts consider the following:
- First-time offenders (no prior convictions)
- Mental health issues
- Coercion or intimidation leading to involvement
- Demonstrating remorse
- Being under 18 or lacking maturity
- Limited role in the offence
Aggravating factors in drug trafficking cases
Aggravating factors increase the severity of a sentence by presenting evidence of higher culpability or greater harm caused by the offence.
In drug trafficking cases, courts consider the following:
- Quantity and the Class of the drug involved
- Prior drug-related convictions
- Your role in the trafficking network
- The level of involvement in the supply chain
- Attempting to conceal evidence
- Use of Weapons
- Committing the offence while on bail
- Whether the offence involved vulnerable individuals or organised crime
Defences against drug trafficking charges
Common defences against drug trafficking charges include:
- Lack of knowledge about the drugs
- Duress (being forced to transport drugs)
- Didn’t intend to sell, supply, or distribute the drugs
- Unlawful search and seizure by law enforcement
- Mistaken identity or lack of sufficient evidence
Every drug trafficking case is unique, and the best defence strategy depends on the specific circumstances.
Can I be charged with drug trafficking for simply possessing drugs?
No, just having drugs doesn't mean you'll be charged with trafficking. But, if it looks like you planned to sell them, even a small amount, you could face trafficking charges.
What is the difference between drug possession and drug trafficking?
Drug possession means having drugs for personal use. Drug trafficking is about illegally moving, selling, or distributing drugs.
If you have a lot of drugs and seem to want to sell them, you could be charged with trafficking.
Can I be charged with trafficking if I didn't sell the drugs?
Yes, you can be charged with trafficking even if you didn't sell the drugs. This is if you helped move or distribute them in any way. It applies to anyone involved in the distribution chain.
What should I do if I am charged with drug trafficking?
If you have been charged with drug trafficking, contact our criminal defence solicitor immediately at 0203 959 7755 for advice and legal representation.
Our criminal defence lawyer can help assess your case, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process.
Here's what you should do if charged with drug trafficking:
- Stay calm and exercise your right to remain silent.
- Request a duty solicitor or lawyer before answering any questions at the police station.
- Contact our criminal defence solicitor at 0203 959 7755 for immediate help.
- Discuss the charges with your solicitor.
- Report any coercion, threats, or exploitation to your solicitor.
- Gather supporting evidence like phone records, witness statements, or medical/social care reports.
- If released on bail, avoid contact with anyone involved in the case.
- Attend all court hearings and follow your solicitor's advice.
- Missing a court date can lead to a warrant for your arrest.
Can I get bail if I'm charged with drug trafficking?
Getting bail is possible but depends on several factors. These include the seriousness of the charge if you might run away, and if you might commit more crimes. In serious cases with large drug amounts, bail might not be granted.
What happens during a drug trafficking trial?
A drug trafficking trial has several stages:
- Pre-trial hearings to see if there's enough evidence.
- The trial is where the prosecution presents evidence and witnesses. The defence argues for your innocence or a lighter sentence.
- Sentencing if you're found guilty, where the judge decides the penalty.
Can a drug trafficking conviction be appealed?
Yes, you can appeal a drug trafficking conviction or sentence if there was a legal mistake. This includes if the law was applied wrongly or if new evidence comes up that could change the outcome.
Can drug trafficking charges be dropped?
Charges for drug trafficking might be dropped if there's not enough evidence. Your lawyer can challenge the evidence. They might ask for the case to be dismissed if it's weak.
How can a lawyer help if I’m charged with drug trafficking?
If you have been charged with drug trafficking, our criminal defence lawyer can:
- Assess your case and provide expert legal advice.
- Build a strong defence strategy.
- Assess the evidence and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
- Challenge any weak evidence.
- Highlight factors that might reduce your sentence.
- Negotiate plea deals or reduced sentences.
- Represent you in court and protect your rights.
- Advise whether to plead guilty or not guilty based on the evidence.
Our criminal defence solicitors look for weaknesses in the prosecution's case. This can help to reduce charges, negotiate plea deals, or have the case dismissed entirely.
Getting legal advice early can greatly improve your chances. Contact us today at 0203 959 7755 for expert help with your case.
Why choose our drug offences solicitors in London?
If you are looking for solicitors specialising in drug offences in London, then look no further than Moeen & Co. Solicitors.
Here are several reasons why you choose our specialised drug offence solicitors in London:
- Proven Track Record
- Specialist Expertise
- Client-Centred Approach
- Protection of Your Legal Rights
- 24/7 Availability
- Reduced Penalties Potential
Proven Track Record
Our criminal defence solicitors have successfully defended clients against various drug offences, from minor criminal charges to large-scale conspiracy cases.
Don't take our word for it. Read our 5-star reviews on Google and ReviewSolicitors. We are proud of the work we do.
Specialist Expertise
We know in-depth about the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and other relevant legislation. It allows us to provide informed and effective legal representation.
Client-Centred Approach
We tailor our services to meet your unique needs. Our solicitors are approachable, compassionate, and dedicated to securing the best outcome for you.
Protection of Your Legal Rights
Our drug offence solicitors work to protect the legal rights of our clients throughout the legal process.
We ensure that proper legal procedures are followed and challenge any violations of our client's rights.
24/7 Availability
Drug offence allegations can happen at any time. That's why we're available 24/7. You can get expert legal advice whenever you need it.
Reduced Penalties Potential
With effective legal representation, there may be a better chance of securing reduced penalties, fines, or alternative sentencing options compared to representing oneself or relying on a less specialised lawyer.
No matter where you are, our team of specialist drug offence solicitors based in Hayes, London offers 24/7 legal advice and representation throughout the UK.
If you're facing drug-related charges, contact our drug offence solicitors at 0203 959 7755. For urgent help, call our 24-hour emergency helpline 07853 017746.
How to contact drug trafficking defence solicitors
If you are facing drug trafficking charges, contact our criminal defence solicitors in Hayes, London at 0203 959 7755 for expert legal advice and representation.
There are several ways to contact our solicitors based in Hayes, London:
- Phone - Call us on 0203 959 7755
- Email us - info@moeenco.com
- Online - Fill in our online enquiry form
- Visit our office - Room 1, The Winning Box, 27-37 Station Road, Hayes UB3 4DX
We are located near Hayes and Harlington Station on Hayes High Street, in Hayes Town Centre.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Moeen & Co. Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.