Drug & Alcohol Matters
Pharmacis Canning Lawyers is committed to providing you with
the best service possible and pride ourselves on our success.
Experienced Criminal Defence Lawyers for Drug & Traffic Charges
If you have been charged with a drug offence or drink driving offence in Queensland, it is important to obtain legal advice as early as possible. These matters are taken seriously by the courts and may result in fines, licence disqualification, a criminal record or imprisonment depending on the circumstances.
At Pharmacis Canning Lawyers, we provide clear, practical and confidential legal advice to help you understand your situation and take immediate steps to protect your rights. We represent clients across Queensland in all drug and drink driving matters.
Your matter will be handled by George Pharmacis, Principal Lawyer, who has extensive experience in criminal and traffic law matters across Queensland courts. Early legal advice can significantly improve your outcome.
Drug Charges vs Drink Driving Charges in Queensland
Drug Offences | Drink Driving Offences |
Governed by Drugs Misuse Act 1986 (Qld) | Governed by Queensland traffic laws |
Includes possession, supply, trafficking | Includes low, mid and high range drink driving |
May result in criminal conviction | May result in licence disqualification and fines |
Penalties depend on drug type and quantity | Penalties depend on BAC level |
Can involve imprisonment in serious cases | Can involve interlock requirements |
Drug Schedules in Queensland
Schedule | Examples | Court Treatment |
Schedule 1 | Heroin, cocaine, methylamphetamine (ice), MDMA, LSD | High seriousness and significant penalties |
Schedule 2 | Cannabis, morphine, methadone, codeine, diazepam, ketamine | Still serious but generally lower penalties |
Drug classification plays an important role in sentencing and defence strategy.
Drug Offences in Queensland
Drug offences in Queensland are governed by the Drugs Misuse Act 1986 (Qld). These laws cover possession, supply, production and trafficking of prohibited substances.
Even minor drug charges can have long-term consequences, including a criminal record that may affect employment, travel, professional licensing and future court outcomes.
What Happens After a Drug Charge
Stage | What Happens |
Arrest and charge | Police arrest you and issue charges. Bail may be granted or refused. |
First court appearance | Matter listed in Magistrates Court (mention). You may seek adjournment to obtain legal advice. |
Disclosure of evidence | Police provide QP9, witness statements and forensic evidence. |
Legal advice and strategy | Lawyer reviews evidence, identifies issues and advises on options. |
Resolution of matter | Case may resolve early, proceed to plea or go to defended hearing. |
Early legal advice at this stage can significantly improve outcomes.
Court Diversion for Drug Offences
Feature | Description |
Eligibility | First-time or low-level possession |
Outcome | Possible no conviction recorded |
Requirements | Good behaviour bond or education program |
Benefit | Avoids criminal record |
Diversion is discretionary and not guaranteed.
Serious Drug Offences
Serious drug offences include trafficking, supply and production of prohibited substances.
These matters often involve complex investigations including surveillance, financial analysis and telephone data.
Factor | Impact |
Drug quantity | Larger amounts increase penalties |
Role in offence | Organiser vs participant |
Evidence type | Messages, surveillance, financial tracing |
Prior history | Repeat offending increases penalties |
Drink Driving Offences in Queensland
Drink driving offences are taken seriously and may result in immediate licence suspension, fines and court penalties.
Police determine blood alcohol concentration (BAC) using roadside and evidentiary testing.
BAC Levels and Penalties
BAC Level | Offence Type | Disqualification | Fine | Jail | Interlock |
0.00–0.049 | Special range drivers | 3–9 months | $1,868 | 3 months | No |
0.05–0.099 | Low range | 1–9 months | $1,868 | 3 months | No |
0.100–0.149 | Mid range | 3–12 months | $2,669 | 6 months | No |
0.150+ | High range | 6+ months | $3,736 | 9 months | Yes |
Repeat offences result in significantly higher penalties including longer disqualifications and mandatory interlock installation.
What Happens After a Drink Driving Charge
Stage | What Happens |
Police interception | Roadside breath or drug testing is conducted. A positive result may lead to charge or suspension. |
Immediate licence action | Licence may be suspended or surrendered before court. |
First court appearance | Matter listed in Magistrates Court for plea or adjournment. |
Disclosure of evidence | Police provide BAC results, statements and testing records. |
Legal advice and options | Lawyer assesses penalties, work licence eligibility and defence options. |
Final outcome | Court imposes penalties including fines, disqualification or imprisonment. |
Work Licences in Queensland
Requirement | Detail |
Eligibility | Limited to eligible first-time offenders |
Purpose | Allows driving for work purposes only |
Court approval | Required from Magistrates Court |
Evidence needed | Employment and hardship documentation |
Risk | Application may be refused if not properly prepared |
Common Mistakes After Being Charged
Mistake | Risk |
Speaking to police without advice | Statements used in court |
Delaying legal advice | Missed defence opportunities |
Pleading guilty too early | Limits sentencing options |
Poor court preparation | Worse outcomes |
Why Early Legal Advice Matters
Benefit | Why It Matters |
Evidence review | Identifies weaknesses in prosecution case |
Strategy planning | Improves defence options |
Work licence assessment | Determines eligibility early |
Negotiation opportunities | May reduce charges or penalties |
Outcome improvement | Better sentencing results |
How Pharmacis Canning Lawyers Can Help
We assist clients with:
– Drug possession and supply charges
– Drug trafficking matters
– Drink driving and DUI offences
– Licence suspension matters
– Work licence applications
– Magistrates Court representation
– Negotiations with prosecution
– Sentencing submissions
We act quickly, explain your options clearly, and prepare your matter thoroughly for court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. In some cases, diversion or non-conviction outcomes may be available depending on the circumstances and your history.
In most cases your licence will be suspended or disqualified. However, some people may be eligible for a work licence depending on the offence.
Possession refers to having drugs for personal use. Supply involves giving, selling or distributing drugs and carries much more serious penalties.
You should seek legal advice immediately, avoid speaking to police without advice, and obtain your QP9.
Yes, in some cases charges can be withdrawn or reduced depending on the evidence and legal issues in the case.
It depends on complexity, court listings and whether the matter is resolved early or proceeds to a hearing.
It is not mandatory, but legal representation significantly improves outcomes in most cases.
It depends on the outcome. Some convictions may affect visas or entry to certain countries.
Possibly, if you meet strict eligibility criteria. Legal advice is essential before applying.
You may be required to stop driving immediately and wait until your court matter is finalised or a disqualification period ends.
Speak With a Lawyer Today
If you are facing drug or drink driving charges in Queensland, contact Pharmacis Canning Lawyers for confidential legal advice.
We will explain your options clearly and help you take the right steps to protect your future.
Early advice can make a significant difference to your case outcome.
Our Advantages
- We care
- Deal with the Principal directly
- Approachable and friendly
- Flexible payment options
Pharmacis Canning Lawyers
Contact Us
Level 15 Corporate Centre One, 2 Corporate Court Bundall QLD 4217
Community Branch Office Carrara Markets Shop 33 (weekends 11am – 2pm)
George C Pharmacis
Principal
Melbourne Office
101 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Sydney Office
