Criminal Lawyers Melbourne

Use of a drug of dependence

Criminal Lawyers Melbourne
ADLA member for - VIC

Written by
Josh Taaffe
Criminal Defence Lawyer


Drug Offences - VIC
The Law - Use of a drug of dependence

What the Law states - Use of a drug of dependence


Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 - SECT 75

Use of drug of dependence

75. Use of drug of dependence

A person who, without being authorized by or licensed under this Act or the regulations to do so uses or attempts to use a drug of dependence is guilty of an offence against this Act and liable-

(a) where the court is satisfied on the balance of probabilities that the offence was committed in relation to cannabis or tetrahydrocannabinol-to a penalty of not more than 5 penalty units; and

(b) in any other case-to a penalty of not more than 30 penalty units or to level 8 imprisonment (1 year maximum) or to both that penalty and imprisonment.

Maximum Penalty in Victoria



1 year / 30 penalty units

What the Prosecution must prove - Use of a drug of dependence - Vic


(a) The accused used or attempted to use a drug of dependence.

Possible Defences - Use of a drug of dependence


(a) Authorization or License.

(b) Duress.

(c) Factual dispute.

(d) Honest and reasonable mistake of belief.

(e) Identification dispute.

(f) Lack of intent.

(g) Mental impairment.

Which court will hear the charge of Use of a drug of dependence


Magistrates' Court.
Article published on 09/01/2009. To check if any changes to the law please discuss with one of our lawyers.
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