The Law

Drugs and the law is a complicated subject and if you find yourself in trouble you should get legal advice at the earliest opportunity. If the police have reason to suspect that you're carrying an illegal drug they have the right to make you empty your pockets. They can also take you to the police station and search you there. If drugs are found you could be charged with one of two offences: possession which means being caught with an illegal drug for your own use, and possession with intent to supply drugs which means if you had any intention to deal (sell), give away or share drugs. Shit Possessing class C drugs such as anabolic steroids, tranquillisers and temazepam (without a legitimate prescription) can get you two years in prison and/or a fine, and supplying them will cost you up to five years prison and/or a fine. Big shit Sharing class B drugs like cannabis and speed can put you away for five years. If you supply, you could be facing up to 14 years. You've drowned Just taking an E or selling a few to some mates on a Saturday night can get you a heavy spell behind bars. Cocaine, crack, ecstasy, heroin, LSD (acid), magic mushrooms and speed (amphetamines) when prepared for injection are all class A drugs. Also methadone without a prescription is a class A drug. You can get up to seven years in prison and/or a fine, and up to life imprisonment and/or fine for supplying. And the icing on the cake... If you have a drugs record, getting a visa to travel to some countries may be difficult and you could even be denied. A record can also affect your job prospects: an employer may check if you have a criminal record or any past convictions. This online advice guide is an extract from the book TOGETHER, by kind permission of Patriic Gayle and Gay Times Books. The book itself is over 300 pages long and contains:

several chapters more useful advice and information

more in-depth information in some chapters

more pictures and tables

further contacts at the end of each chapter

a comprehensive listing of gay and health organisations Described by Qx magazine as a 'Gay Bible', Together Book is a practical reference work no bookshelf should be without.

Available from Prowler Stores and all good bookshops, or click the link below for price and ordering details.

1183