Drugs penalties
Back to Topic
Click to Print
Useful Websites
Glossary Term Selection
The penalties depend on which drug and the amount you have, and whether you are also dealing or producing the drug. The most severe penalty can be an unlimited fine and life in prison.
Types of drugs
The maximum penalties for drug possession, supply (dealing) and production depend on what type or ‘class’ the drug is.
Possessing drugs
You may be charged with possessing an illegal substance if you’re caught with drugs, whether they’re yours or not.
If you’re under 18, the police are allowed to tell your parent, guardian or carer that you’ve been caught with drugs.
Your penalty will depend on:
- the class and quantity of drug
- where you and the drugs were found
- your personal history (previous crimes, including any previous drug offences)
- other aggravating or mitigating factors.
Cannabis
Police can issue a warning or an on-the-spot fine of £90 if you’re found with cannabis.
Khat
Police can issue a warning or an on-the-spot fine of £60 on the first 2 times that you’re found with k...
Want to see the rest of this article?
Would you like to see the rest of this article and all the other benefits that Issues Online can provide with?
- Useful related articles
- Video and multimedia references
- Statistical information and reference material
- Glossary of terms
- Key Facts and figures
- Related assignments
- Resource material and websites
