Clara Sibanda’s drug supply client spared immediate custody following success at trial of issue

Clara Sibanda, instructed by Reeves & Co, secured a suspended sentence for a defendant convicted of possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, as well as possession of criminal property and an offensive weapon.

On the Crown’s case, the defendant had played a “significant role” in the offending/supply chain and was facing a starting point of 4 years 6 months custody. 

Clara represented the client at a challenging Newton hearing, ultimately persuading the court that he had only played a “lesser role”, with a starting point of 3 years. From there she was able to advance sufficient mitigation to bring the sentence down to 2 years, and persuade the judge to suspend the sentence. 

As a result, her client will be spared immediate custody, and will instead need to comply with unpaid work and rehabilitation requirements in the community. 

Clara accepts instructions in all areas of criminal law.

9th June 2022