The Act makes it an offence to possess psychoactive substances with intent to supply, and in limited cases, simple possession is also an offence.

The appeals came about following some cases where Judges ruled that laughing gas is exempt from control under the Act.

The issue on appeal was whether Nitrous Oxide was a 'medicinal product' if it were the offence would not have been committed.

In the four cases before the Court of Appeal, two appellants were convicted after trial; the other two had pleaded guilty.

Bonfire Night is almost upon us where the night sky will be brought alive by the vibrant explosions of noise and colour, but as always, lurking in the background is a risk that failing to deal with fireworks safely & responsibly can bring you to the attention of the Police.

Retailers who are thinking of supplying fireworks for the first time should ensure that they are sufficiently familiar with the complex rules that regulate the sale and possession of fireworks.

Contravention of the rules can result in substantial fines being imposed, or even a prison sentence.

Simon Morton our Managing Director explains the law.

Recent changes to the Police And Criminal Evidence Act mean that Police Officers can now conduct many more interviews away from the usual police station.  This removes many of the built in safeguards of the process that has protected the rights of millions of arrestees over the last thirty plus years.

So I the police offer to interview me away from the Police Station such as at home, work or the location of the offence, what are my rights?

Or, at least it does according to Elton John.

But in criminal law, sometimes a simple act of contrition, genuine remorse and communicated, can alter a case outcome significantly.