Legal issues
Key issues include legal possession, knowledge, the identity and classification of the substance, lawful authority or prescription where applicable, and attribution in shared premises or vehicles.
Evidence that matters
Evidence may include search records, body-worn video, fingerprints/DNA, forensic drug analysis, photographs, messages, location of the substance and evidence of who controlled the relevant area or container.
Reasonable lines of enquiry
Enquiries may include forensic attribution, identifying other occupants/users, reviewing search footage and continuity, obtaining prescription or lawful-possession documents and testing the prosecution theory of control.
What happens next
Possession offences are generally dealt with according to drug class, quantity, circumstances and record. Outcomes can range from out-of-court disposal in appropriate cases to court proceedings.
Immediate steps
Keep search and seizure paperwork, prescription evidence, ownership/access records and communications relevant to who controlled the location or item.
What should you send us?
Send the allegation/charge, search record, custody/bail papers, forensic result, prescription evidence if relevant, shared-access information and next date.