Charges related to the possession, transportation, or distribution of narcotic substances are among the most serious in criminal law. Such cases almost always involve significant risks: from asset seizure and lengthy imprisonment to searches, covert investigative actions, pressure from law enforcement, and a high likelihood of procedural rights being violated.
Even a small amount of a narcotic substance may become grounds for a serious suspicion or charge - from possession (Art. 309 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine) to distribution (Art. 307). In practice, law enforcement agencies often interpret circumstances in favour of a more severe qualification, and any detail - scales, zip-bags, correspondence, or incidental contacts - may be treated as evidence of intent to distribute. Timely involvement of a defence lawyer makes it possible to challenge unlawful actions of the investigation, ensure proper preservation of evidence, prevent pressure during questioning, build the correct defence strategy, and achieve reclassification of charges or even full dismissal of the case.
Timely defence is the key to minimising risks and mitigating consequences.
Contact usDrug-related criminal proceedings are among the most complex and sensitive categories of cases. They cover a wide range of offences - from unlawful possession of small quantities of substances to accusations of distribution, involvement in organised schemes, or even smuggling. In every situation, the key factor is not only the content of the accusation but also how the evidence was obtained, under what circumstances the individual was detained, and whether law-enforcement officers complied with all procedural requirements.
In practice, many issues arise precisely because of such violations. Improper searches, absence of witnesses, questionable expert reports, seizure of evidence without a court order, pressure during questioning, or attempts to obtain a confession - all of these are not merely procedural flaws but grounds for declaring evidence inadmissible. A drug crimes lawyer identifies and documents each of these violations and uses them strategically to strengthen the defence position.
A competent defence lawyer conducts a detailed analysis of all circumstances: how the substance came into the suspect’s possession, the actual purpose of storage, the presence or absence of signs of distribution, the role of other persons, communication history, movement of funds, and access to devices. Often it is the correct interpretation and proof of context that makes it possible to obtain requalification from Art. 307 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine to Art. 309, or to avoid a conviction altogether.
An important part of a defence lawyer’s work is developing an effective strategy for interacting with the investigation and the court. This includes filing motions for additional examinations, requesting case materials, seeking recusal of an investigator, prosecutor or judge, initiating investigative actions that strengthen the defence, as well as systematically working with admissible evidence. All of this makes it possible to build a strong legal position and minimise the risk of the most severe consequences.
Professional legal defence is especially crucial at the early stages - this is when the foundation for the final outcome is formed. The sooner a lawyer becomes involved in the case, the more procedural tools are available for protection: from preventing violations to developing an alternative version of events and challenging unlawful actions or procedural decisions of law enforcement authorities.
The lawyer’s fee is an important aspect and is usually determined individually for each specific case. This is influenced by a number of factors, including but not limited to the following:
Therefore, a lawyer’s fee is flexible and determined individually in each specific case, and is usually discussed during the initial consultation with the client.