Survival Guide - Discover France: Experience the Best of France - page 766

• » The penalty for any personal use of stupéfiants (including cannabis, amphetamines,
ecstasy and heroin) can be a one-year jail sentence and a €3750 fine but, depending on
the circumstances, it might be anything from a stern word to a compulsory rehab program.
• » Importing, possessing, selling or buying drugs can get you up to 10 years' prison and
a fine of up to €500,000.
• » Ivresse (drunkeness) in public is punishable by a €150 fine.
Legal Matters
POLICE
• » French police have wide powers of search and seizure and can ask you to
prove your identity at any time - whether or not there is 'probable cause'.
• » Foreigners must be able to prove their legal status in France (eg passport, visa,
residency permit) without delay.
• » If the police stop you for any reason, be polite and remain calm. Verbally (and of
course physically) abusing a police officer can lead to a hefty fine, and even impris-
onment.
• » You may refuse to sign a police statement, and have the right to ask for a copy.
• » People who are arrested are considered innocent until proven guilty, but can be
held in custody until trial.
• » Because of the threat of terrorism, French police are very strict about security.
Do not leave baggage unattended, especially at airports or train stations: suspicious
objects may be summarily blown up.
Legal Age
Age of majority 18
Buying alcohol 18