.png){kind=small}
Drug Offences
Specialist defence for
all drug-related charges
At Murrays Solicitors, we have over 20 years of experience
representing clients in a wide range of drug-related cases.
From minor possession charges to serious allegations of supply,
production, or importation, our team provides expert legal advice
and robust defence at every stage of the process.
​
This page outlines the basics of drug offences in the UK.
For tailored advice or immediate representation,
please contact us directly.
Drug Classifications in the UK
Controlled drugs are divided into three classes
under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971:
​
Class A (most serious):
Heroin
Cocaine / Crack Cocaine
Ecstasy
LSD
Magic Mushrooms
Amphetamines (if prepared for injection)
Class B:
Cannabis
Amphetamines (in standard form)
Class C:
Tranquillisers
Ketamine
Diazepam (unless lawfully prescribed)​
Arrest and Drug Testing
If you’re arrested for a “trigger offence”
(such as burglary, robbery, or drug supply),
you may be tested for Class A drugs.
While you cannot be physically forced to give a sample,
refusing to provide one without good reason
is a criminal offence.
​
Penalties for Drug Offences
Penalties vary depending on the class of drug
and the nature of the offence. Here's a general breakdown:
​​​
Sentencing will also take into account:
• The quantity and type of drug involved
• Whether the drugs were for personal use or intended for supply
• Your previous criminal record
• Personal and mitigating circumstances
Specific Offences Explained
Cultivation of Cannabis
It is an offence to grow cannabis plants without a licence.
This can lead to up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
​
Producing Drugs
Producing controlled substances, especially in large-scale operations,
is treated as a serious offence.
• Class A: Up to life imprisonment
• Class B & C: Up to 14 years’ imprisonment
Allowing Premises to Be Used for Drug Activity
If you knowingly allow your property to be used for the use,
supply, or production of drugs, you could face criminal prosecution.
Importation of Drugs
Importing controlled drugs into the UK is a serious offence
under both the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the Customs and Excise
Management Act.
• Class A: Up to life imprisonment
• Amphetamines: Up to 14 years’ imprisonment
• Cannabis: Up to 14 years’ imprisonment
How We Can Help
Being accused of a drug offence can be overwhelming —
but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you're under investigation,
have been charged, or are due to appear in court, we provide:
• Specialist advice at the police station
• Expert case preparation and representation
• Skilled advocacy in both Magistrates’ and Crown Court
• Clear communication and support throughout
Contact Us
If you’re facing a drug-related charge, early legal advice
can make all the difference.
Contact Murrays Solicitors today for confidential, expert support.
Offence
Class A Possession:
Up to 7 years’ imprisonment, unlimited fine, or both
Class B Possession:
Up to 5 years’ imprisonment, unlimited fine, or both
Class C Possession:
Up to 5 years’ imprisonment, unlimited fine, or both
​​​​
Offence
Class A Supply/Production:
Up to life imprisonment, unlimited fine, or both
Class BSupply/Production:
Up to 14 years’ imprisonment, unlimited fine, or both
Class C Supply/Production:
Up to 14 years’ imprisonment, unlimited fine, or both
​​​​
Contact Us
Telephone: 01274 304 448
Out of hours emergency number: 07836 566594
Email: enquiries@murrayssolicitors.co.uk
Address:
10 Piece Hall Yard
Bradford
BD1 1PJ