In England and Wales, the production of cannabis is a serious criminal offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Whether on a small or large scale, being involved in the cultivation or production of cannabis plants can lead to significant criminal penalties, including imprisonment.
If you need urgent legal advice for a cannabis-related offence, call or WhatsApp 01162 555155.
What is the Offence of Production of Cannabis?
Production of cannabis involves taking part in any stage of the process of cultivating cannabis plants. You can be guilty of production even if you are only involved in one part of the process, such as watering plants, providing equipment, or renting out premises knowing it will be used for cultivation.
The offence is classified as an either-way offence, meaning it can be heard in either the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court, depending on the seriousness of the case.
Common scenarios leading to production charges include:
- Growing cannabis plants at home for personal use
- Operating or assisting in large-scale cannabis farms
- Renting or managing properties used for cannabis cultivation
- Even growing a small number of plants can lead to criminal charges if there is evidence that the cannabis is being grown for supply rather than solely for personal use.
Penalties for Cannabis Production
The penalties for cannabis production vary depending on the scale of the operation and the individual’s role in the offence.
Potential sentences include:
- A fine
- A community order
- Imprisonment (with sentences ranging from a few months to several years)
- Larger commercial operations or those involving organised crime groups often attract the most severe penalties, including lengthy custodial sentences.
- The sentencing guidelines consider factors such as:
- The number of plants cultivated
- The sophistication of the growing operation
- Evidence of onward supply
- Previous criminal convictions
Because sentencing can be so severe, it is critical to seek expert legal advice as early as possible.
Defences to Production of Cannabis Charges
Several defences may be available to someone accused of cannabis production, depending on the circumstances.
Potential defences include:
- Lack of knowledge (for example, being unaware that cannabis was being cultivated)
- Duress (being forced or coerced into assisting)
- Medical necessity (although very limited under current law)
- Each case depends on its facts, and a strong defence strategy can lead to an acquittal or reduced sentence.
Why Choose Sahota & Sahota Solicitors for Cannabis Production Defence?
Facing an allegation of cannabis production can be daunting. At Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, we have extensive experience in representing individuals charged with drug offences, including the production of cannabis.
We are:
- Experts in drug-related cases in both the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court
- Skilled in identifying technical defences and challenging the prosecution’s evidence
- Available 24/7 for immediate police station representation
- We work tirelessly to protect your rights, whether that means challenging the strength of the case against you, negotiating lesser charges, or securing the best possible outcome at court.
Recent Drug Offence Cases Handled
Defended a client accused of cultivating cannabis for supply, achieving a suspended sentence after demonstrating personal use and lack of commercial intent.
Represented a defendant involved in a large-scale cannabis farm operation, securing a significant reduction in sentence through expert mitigation.
Acted for several clients charged with possession and production offences, often avoiding custodial sentences with tailored defence strategies.
Contact Sahota & Sahota Solicitors Today
If you are under investigation or have been charged with the production of cannabis, expert legal advice is essential from the outset.
Call or WhatsApp us on 01162 555155 for immediate legal assistance.
Visit us at: Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, 25 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 6TE.
Our experienced team is here to provide you with the expert defence and peace of mind you need during this difficult time.
