Know the Score - Info & Advice on Drugs In Scotland
Info & Advice on Drugs in Scotland for...
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Drugs and the Law
The Facts
- Every year about 40,000 people in the UK are arrested for drug offences.
- About 38,000 of these get caught with a small amount of cannabis, a 'tab' or two, or a couple of E. The majority of convictions are for possession offences.
- What happens to them depends on the Class of drug they're caught with and, amongst other things, what they plan to do with it.
- The law divides drugs into three classes - A, B and C.
- Class A drugs carry the heaviest penalties.
| Class | Drug | Possession | Production or Dealing |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Ecstasy, acid, cocaine, heroin & methadone, mushrooms (if prepared), speed (if prepared for injection). | Up to 7 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. | Up to life imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. |
| B | Speed, Ritalin (without prescription), Pholcodine | Up to 5 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. | Up to 14 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. |
| C | Cannabis, diazepam, tranquillisers & some painkillers (without prescription), GHB. | Up to 2 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. | Up to 14 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. |
What's The Difference Between Possession & Supply (Dealing)?
Possession
This is where you get caught with drugs that you're going to use yourself. A report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal to decide whether to prosecute you or not. Depending on the Class of drug you're caught with and individual circumstances, you may get up to 7 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both.
Supply (Dealing)
You don't have to be a big time drug dealer to be charged with supply related offences. If you're caught with drugs and it looks like you've bought them to sell, or give to your friends, you could be charged with 'possession with intent to supply' or 'supplying drugs'. Either offence can mean up to life imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both.
Remember: Having a criminal record can make it difficult for you to get a job or visa if you want to travel abroad.
What Happens If You're Under 16?
From 1 April 1997, the misuse of any drug, whether or not it's controlled in terms of the Misuse of Drugs Act, can mean you have to go to a Children's Hearing if you're under 16.