ABV Solicitors
Drug law; changes
suggested in 2021
In December 2021, the government of the UK announced a new drug strategy, focusing
more on helping those who have drug addictions rather than sentencing them to jail
time.
And, as a result, the government has pledged to offer £700 million over 3 years to tackle
this problem.
But what does this mean? A criminal solicitor offers a brief insight.
Chronic health conditions
Although psychologists and psychiatrists have been stating it for years alongside
doctors, chronic drug users are now deemed to be suffering from a chronic health issue
and addiction has been classified as an illness that is often comorbid with mental health
issues.
Over the years, this has been a focal point of any criminal solicitor defending a case of
drug abuse.
But with the new overhaul, there are concerns that the ideology may be too soft on
those who are dealing drugs. But, with the rise in alcohol and drug-related deaths in
the UK, it may be exactly what is required to aid people in these situations in getting
the help they need from the legal system and their criminal solicitor.
Current drug law in the UK
As it stands in the UK at present, according to a criminal solicitor, you may be fined or
given prison time if you;
● Take drugs recreationally
● Carry drugs in public areas or on your person
● Make drugs or grow drugs
● Sell, deal or share drugs
And based on the strength or class of the drug, each group has a different sentence
time and penalty.
Drug types and classes
As mentioned before, the type of drugs you are taking or supplying has a direct impact
on the sentence you are given. Here is a rough guide from a criminal solicitor to the
current laws that stand surrounding drugs and their classes in the UK.
Class A- Crack cocaine, cocaine, ecstasy, heroin, LSD, magic mushrooms, methadone
and crystal meth.
Possession- Up to 7 years in prison and unlimited fine or both.
Supply- Up to life in prison and unlimited fine or both.