Been arrested?

The law surrounding drugs is complicated, but the maximum penalty for any of the common offences is a prison sentence and/or a fine, in less serious circumstances the penalty may be a caution, reprimand or final warning.

If you are arrested by the police on suspicion of a drug offence you have some basic rights, including the following:

You have the right to free, independent legal advice. You can speak to the duty solicitor or call your solicitor, if you have one. You may have to wait to see a solicitor, but the choice is yours.
If you are under 17, the police must contact your parent(s) or guardian and tell them why and where you are being held.
If you are over 17, you have the right to ask the police to notify a friend or relative, if you wish.

Arrest referral workers are available at certain times in police stations. You may choose to take the opportunity to speak to one of them and find out about help that is available locally if you have a problem with drugs or alcohol. This service is free and confidential.

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