Stopped with drugs – what to do?

Criminal proceedings related to the sale and possession of narcotic drugs are quite complex. That is why the role of a lawyer in such cases is invaluable. For example, you were stopped with narcotics. A logical question immediately arises: what to do in such a situation? The main thing we can advise: do not panic and enlist the support of a lawyer. Specialists of our Prykhodko and Partners law office will be able to explain your rights and obligations, prepare and agree on an effective defense strategy. We also guarantee high-quality protection of your rights in court.

Formation of evidence base in drug cases

In criminal proceedings related to the sale of narcotic substances, special attention is paid to establishing the fact of criminal acts. Among the most common proofs are:

• Narcotic substances.

Drugs or their components found in motor vehicles are some of the most important evidence in a case. In most cases, these substances go through a special examination to determine the following characteristics: their quantity, composition, potential danger.

• Features of drug storage.

Evidence in cases of sale of narcotic substances can be available means of their storage: containers, packaging, bags, etc.

• Means of sale.

A variety of sales equipment can be used to trade in narcotics: packaging, scales, special papers.

Among the elements that can also confirm the sale of drugs: electronic devices (PCs, tablets, mobile phones with text messages, recordings), transfers of a significant amount of funds (bank statements, financial records, etc.).

The responsibility for storing and selling drugs depends on their size. For example, the minimum number of detected narcotics. It does not exceed the dose of use for 1 time for one person. As for particularly large sizes, the number of drugs is several times greater than the largest size of narcotics.

Therefore, the amount of punishment will depend on the amount of narcotic drugs detected and the nature of the act (administrative, criminal, etc.) will be determined. For example, if you were stopped and found a small amount of drugs without the purpose of sale, such actions do not involve criminal liability. Such actions are subject to the sanctions of Article 44 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.

As for criminal liability, it arises in cases where the amount of detected substances is significant and there are particularly qualifying features.

In the vast majority of cases, illegal actions are criminalized under Article 307 of the Criminal Code. The maximum measure of responsibility under this article is imprisonment for a term of up to 8 years.

If a person is charged under this article, such preventive measure as arrest is immediately carried out. That is why it is necessary to promptly involve a lawyer. The final outcome of the case will largely depend on his professionalism.

Hiring a lawyer: what to consider?

We note once again that the participation of a lawyer in the case of drug sales is mandatory. Let's simulate the following situation: you received a parcel from a courier, after which you were stopped by law enforcement officials and suspected of selling/storing drugs. Even if there are no grounds for such suspicion, you cannot do without the involvement of a lawyer. The main goal of the police representatives is to bring the case to the indictment. That is why it is not worth hoping for their loyalty.

If you have been detained, it is better to remain silent until the lawyer arrives. At this stage, it is very important not to react to various manipulations by law enforcement officers. If suspicion is declared under Article 307 of the Criminal Code, the investigation may use such a preventive measure as detention. Our lawyers will be able to prepare a motion to choose another preventive measure (for example, house arrest).

Thus, it is better to use the services of a lawyer in cases related to the sale of drugs at the stage of pre-trial investigation. We will be able to gather the necessary evidence base to acquit the defendant. Our lawyers act exclusively within the framework of the current legal field.

We provide a full range of services in drug cases:

• Consulting in 24/7 mode.
• Legal support of the client during search/detention.
• Control over the legality of the actions of representatives of law enforcement agencies.
• Collection of evidence and involvement of witnesses.
• Study of case materials.
• Correct qualification of illegal actions.
• Preparation of documents, petitions, complaints, etc.
• Professional representation in court.

Do you have any other questions? We are waiting for a preliminary consultation in a format convenient for you (offline or online)! To calculate the cost of a lawyer's services in drug possession and sale cases, fill out the form below.