Possession with Intent to Supply (PWITS)

The possession of controlled drugs with the intent to supply them to another is one of the most serious drug-related offences under UK law.

When someone is caught with illegal drugs and authorities believe they intend to sell or distribute them, it leads to a Possession with Intent to Supply charge.

If you've been charged with possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply, contact our drug offence solicitors at 0203 959 7755 for assistance.

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 possession with intent to supply (PWITS)?

Possession with intent to supply (PWITS) occurs when authorities allege you possess illegal drugs and suspect you intend to supply or sell them to others.

Under Section 5(3) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, it is illegal to possess a controlled drug to supply it to someone who does not have legal authorisation.

Unlike simple drug possession, which may lead to lesser penalties, PWITS is treated as a more severe drug offence due to the element of intent to supply.

How does the law define ‘supply'?

In the context of drug offences, supply doesn't just mean selling drugs for profit.

Supply can include:

• Passing drugs to another person, even without payment.
• Sharing a controlled substance among friends.
• Larger-scale drug dealing, where profit and organised crime may be involved.

Whether drugs are sold, gifted, or exchanged, the act of transferring them to another person constitutes supply.

How serious is a possession with intent to supply charge?

A charge of possession with intent to supply is a serious criminal offence. The consequences can be severe, including long prison sentences, hefty fines, and a criminal record.

How serious the charge is depends on the drug class (Class A, B, or C), the quantity of drugs involved, and whether it's considered part of a larger trafficking operation.

What are the penalties for possession with intent to supply?

Depending on the class of drug and the quantity, penalties for possession with intent to supply may include up to life imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.

Class A Drugs

Penalties for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs (e.g., heroin, cocaine, LSD, ecstasy) can range from community orders to life imprisonment.

• Maximum penalty: Life imprisonment
• Offence range: Community order to 16 years' custody

Trafficking offences may result in minimum sentences, especially for repeat offenders under Section 110 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000.

Class B Drugs

Penalties for possession with intent to supply Class B drugs (e.g., cannabis, amphetamines, ketamine) can range from fines to up to 14 years' imprisonment.

• Maximum penalty: 14 years' custody and/or an unlimited fine
• Offence range: Fine to 10 years' custody

Class C Drugs

Penalties for possession with intent to supply Class C Drugs (e.g., anabolic steroids, benzodiazepines) can range from fines to up to 14 years' imprisonment.

• Maximum penalty: 14 years' custody and/or an unlimited fine
• Offence range: Fine to 8 years' custody

How does the court determine whether I intended to supply the drugs?

The prosecution will look at various factors, including:

• The quantity of drugs found in your possession.
• Drug-related items, like scales, bags, or notebooks detailing transactions.
• Communications or cash that indicate a planned exchange.
• Testimony from witnesses or evidence gathered through undercover operations.

Potential defences for charges of possession with intent to supply

In possession with intent to supply cases, your solicitor could use the following potential defence strategies:

• Lack of knowledge about the drugs.
• Duress (being forced to transport drugs).
• Drugs belonged to someone else.
• Unlawful search and seizure by law enforcement.
• Mistaken identity or lack of sufficient evidence.
• Insufficient to prove the intent to supply.
• You had a valid prescription for the drug.

Every drug offence case is unique, and the best defence strategy depends on the specific circumstances.

Moeen & Co. Solicitors can assess your case, build a strong defence, and protect your rights. Contact us today at 0203 959 7755 for an expert legal advice.

Will a drug possession conviction affect my future?

Yes, a conviction can impact:

• Employment opportunities: Many employers conduct background checks.
• Travel restrictions: Some countries, like the USA and Australia, may deny visas.
• Education & housing: Universities and landlords may reject applications.

A criminal defence solicitor can help you fight the charges or seek alternative resolutions to protect your future.

What to do if you are arrested for possession of drugs?

If you are charged with possession of drugs with intent to supply, taking the right steps early on can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Here's what you should do:

• Remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent.
• If you are at a police station, request a duty solicitor or a lawyer before answering any questions.
• Contact our specialist criminal defence solicitor at 0203 959 7755 for immediate legal representation.
• Discuss your case with a solicitor to understand the charges against you.
• If you were coerced, threatened, or exploited, tell your solicitor immediately.
• Gather evidence to support your defence, including phone records, witness statements, social media messages, and medical or social care reports (if exploitation is a factor).
• If you are released on bail, do not communicate with anyone involved in the case.
• Breaching bail conditions can result in re-arrest and a more serious outcome.
• Attend all court hearings and follow your solicitor's advice carefully.
• Missing a court date can result in a warrant for your arrest.

If your case goes to the Magistrates' Court or Crown Court, our solicitor will help you build a defence strategy.

If you're facing charges for possession of drugs, contact our specialist drug offence solicitors in London at 0203 959 7755 for urgent help.

How can a solicitor help with a drug possession case?

If you're arrested for the possession of drugs with intent to supply, our expert drug offence solicitors in London can build a strong defence to help you.

Our criminal defence solicitors will:

• 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.

Contact defence solicitors for possession of drugs

If you are facing charges for possession with intent to supply, contact our criminal defence solicitors in Hayes, London at 0203 959 7755 for legal help.