Roadside drug test - positive
Looking for some insight or experiences regarding an MDT swipe today in NSW.
The Situation:
I was pulled over today for a random roadside drug test. I tested positive on the initial saliva screening swab for cannabis. I am a legitimate, prescribed medicinal cannabis patient and have a current prescription/TGA approval.
The police officer issued me a pink slip, which is an immediate 24-hour driving ban, and told me my secondary sample is being sent off to the lab for testing. She did not confiscate my licence on the spot, so I know I can legally drive again once the 24 hours are up while waiting for the lab results (which I understand takes 4–8 weeks).
The officer told me that once the fine arrives, I can apply for an administrative review through Revenue NSW (formerly SDRO) and they can "waive the fine" because of my prescription. From my own reading of the Road Transport Act, this sounds like flawed advice, as NSW has a strict zero-tolerance presence law, and Revenue NSW usually can't waive drug driving matters administratively.
The Complications (Why I'm stressed):
I am a postgraduate law student. I am incredibly stressed about how a drug driving conviction will affect my "fit and proper person" admission to the Supreme Court via the LPAB. Absolute candour means I have to disclose this regardless, but an active criminal conviction is obviously a massive hurdle compared to a spent administrative fine or a non-conviction order.
Prior Record: I have a prior Section 10 dismissal, but it was for a completely unrelated matter maybe over 15 years ago
My Questions:
Has anyone successfully had a drug driving fine written off or cautioned by Revenue NSW based on a medical prescription, or was the cop completely mistaken? She said I should dispute the fine with the SRDO because I have a prescription. She never mentioned a 3 month suspension, only 24 hours.
Given that my previous Section 10 was over 15 years ago and for a completely different category of law (not a traffic offence), what are the realistic odds of a magistrate granting a second Section 10 / Conditional Release Order (CRO) without conviction if I court-elect the ticket?
For any lawyers or recent assignees here, how heavily does the LPAB penalise a standard "presence of THC" traffic fine (if I just pay it to avoid a court conviction risk) vs risking court to fight for a Section 10?
Obviously seeking general experiences and perspectives, and I will be booking a consultation with a traffic lawyer this week. Thanks in advance.