A drug possession charge will most likely taint your record. What if authorities catch you with a small amount at a party or music festival?
Whatever the severity of your case may be, it is better if you have a criminal lawyer that you can run to on the Gold Coast. Nyst Legal says that “If you’ve been caught in possession of only a small amount of cannabis, you may be eligible, if the Magistrate deems it appropriate, to be placed on a recognisance order, with the condition that you attend a drug assessment and education session rather than being dealt with on the charge in the Court”.
This is the nature of the drug diversion program: an education session.
Eligibility for Minor Drug Offence
You are eligible for the program if you:
- Admit guilt to the offence
- Have not previously or recently been convicted of a drug offence dealt with in Court
- Are charged with one or more drug offences
- Appear before the Magistrates court or the Children’s Court
Eligible drug offences include possession of a small amount of drugs, possession of items used for consuming or smoking the drugs, as well as failure to dispose of a syringe.
Drug Diversion Program in Queensland
According to Queensland Police, most drug offences in the state involve possession of a small amount of cannabis.
Individuals who receive a charge of minor drug offence have the opportunity to attend and complete the Police Drug Diversion Program rather than go through the normal court process. This offers individuals a chance to redeem themselves by receiving professional help.
Of course, a drug possession charge is nerve-racking, but if it is only a minor drug offence, then there is a probability that you do not have to face jail time. Instead, you will undergo assessment and education sessions to help you stay away from drugs.