Importation Of Drugs
Criminal Defence For Importation Of Drugs Offences
An importation of drugs offence can be one of the most severe offences in the UK. Depending on the class of drugs imported – and how serious your case is – you could face up to life imprisonment.
If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged with an importation of drugs offence, you must seek legal representation immediately. Working with an experienced criminal defence attorney will help you fight the offence and gain an outcome that’s far easier to handle. Please don’t hesitate to contact JD Solicitors today if you need assistance with any drug importation charges.
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Importation Of Drug Laws in the UK
What are the current importation of drug laws in the UK? At the time of writing, drug importation laws are covered by the following acts:
- Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 – Section 3
- Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 – Sections 50 and 70
Under Section 5 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, it is “illegal to import and export controlled drugs”.
Section 50 of the Customs and Excise Management Act states that it is a criminal offence to “land or unload any ship, aircraft or port prohibited or restricted goods (including drugs) or good in which customs duty is owned but has not been paid”.
Section 70 of the same Act is more specific to drug importation and outlines that it is a criminal offence to “knowingly acquire possession of an item with intent to defraud or evade customs duty”.
If you are found guilty of any of these charges, you will be committing crimes and can face sentencing in a UK prison.
Importation Of Drugs Sentencing Guidelines
The sentence for importing drugs will vary on a case-by-case basis. Your maximum sentence is largely determined by the class of drugs you’re accused of importing. The general importation of drug sentencing guidelines has been outlined by the Sentencing Council in a report. You can view the entire report online to get the full details, but here’s an overview of what you may expect to face:
- Class A Drug Importation – Maximum of Life Imprisonment. Offences can range between 3 years 6 months and 16 years in custody.
- Class B Drug Importation – Maximum of 14 years custody and/or an unlimited fine. Offences can range between 12 weeks to 10 years in custody.
- Class C Drug Importation – Maximum of 14 years custody and/or an unlimited fine. Offences can range between community orders to 8 years in custody.
Sentence severity is also down to the defendant’s role in the drug importation charges and how much potential harm the drugs can cause. If you had a main role in importing the drugs and they were imported in large amounts, you’ll likely experience harsher sentencing.
Get Legal Help With An Importation of Drugs Offence
We know that being charged with an importation or drug offence can be life-changing in a negative way. If you want to fight your case and reduce the sentencing – or have the charges dropped completely – then we are here to help.
The drug crime lawyers at JD Solicitors can assist you throughout the legal process to ensure you’re ready for trial and can put the best defence forward. If you’re innocent, we’ll help you clear your name and save your reputation. For more details on what we can do to help, contact our team via our website or give us a call today.
