Defence lawyer Charles Richardson was yesterday charged with four counts of drug possession.

Richardson, of Smith's, appeared in Magistrates' Court before Senior Magistrate Archibald Warner.

The lawyer pleaded not guilty to possessing cannabis, cannabis resin, a scale fitted to use with a controlled drug, and an ashtray with cigarette butts and papers to misuse with controlled drugs.

The offences were allegedly committed on August 11, in Smith's.

Richardson famously turned his life around after serving seven years in prison for attempted murder. He was called to the Bermuda Bar in 2005.

He is now considered to be one of the top defence lawyers on the Island.

The charges will not prevent him from practising while he awaits a trial, said Bar Association president Kiernan Bell.

"Mr Richardson is a member in good standing of the Bermuda Bar and it is a fundamental tenet of our law that people are presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law."

Richardson is represented by Elizabeth Christopher. Cindy Clarke represented the Crown.

He was released on $1,000 bail. He was ordered to reappear in court on January 11 when a trial date is to be set.

The lawyer posted on his Facebook page yesterday morning: "Hey Facebook family.....just want to make it known that the Police have decided to charge me with possessing a small amount of cannabis found at my house. I thought it best I tell you'all before you hear it in the press.... :)"