Drive under the influence of cannabis – no conviction recorded, client's career saved

We represented a client who was charged with driving under the influence of cannabis and possession of cannabis. 

The client was studying to become a customs broker and a conviction for any drug related offences could have jeopardised his advancement on his chosen career path.

The client pleaded guilty to the charges and the matter was adjourned to allow the client to undertake the Traffic Offenders Programme due to his driving offence.

Relying on good character references and being able to submit to the Court that the client had moved away from previous associations, we submitted that the Court could find comfort in accepting that the client was unlikely to reoffend.

We also submitted that the client had pleaded to the drive under the influence charge at his earliest opportunity, rather than trying to defend the charge and that a conviction for the offence could have far reaching repercussions for someone with an otherwise unblemished character.

The Magistrate dismissed the possession of cannabis charge pursuant to section 10 of the Crime (Sentencing Procedure) Act, without recording a conviction.

The Magistrate also dismissed the drive under the influence charge pursuant to section 10 of the Crime (Sentencing Procedure) Act, without recording a conviction, placing the client on a good behaviour bond.

The client was happy to keep his licence and ecstatic that he could continue on his chosen career path.