Legal Tips and Resources
While you may see a possession of marijuana charge as insignificant, in reality, such a case is extremely serious. It is important that you have a competent and experienced criminal defense attorney at your side to help you navigate the system, whether it is your first charge or your tenth. Most state laws provide for a variety of charges that might be brought against an individual who is arrested for possession of marijuana.
Possible Penalties for Possession of Marijuana
If the amount of marijuana is small, specifically less than four ounces, the charges are less severe, although not insignificant. In some states, a charge of possession of less than four ounces of marijuana can carry a penalty of a fine of $1,000 and up to a year in jail. The more serious the charge, the more serious the consequences become.
For children under the age of 16, there are also consequences as well. For a youth under the age of 16, possession of less than five ounces or possession of drug paraphernalia related to less than five ounces of marijuana may carry a punishment of a suspended license for at least 60 days. Individuals ages 17 to 21 will face a similar punishment, with the added penalty of fines. In some cases, the court will also require drug counseling and/or certain amounts of community service hours. Your drug crimes lawyer can explain what type of penalties you may be facing.
While these penalties may seem small and inconsequential, they are not the only consequences. A handful of days in jail and a small fine are minimal. However, a conviction for any crime can be damaging to many aspects of life in the future. Some jobs will disqualify candidates for positions when they have been convicted of any crime or certain crimes. A conviction can also carry with it a stigma in the community. Criminal convictions of any kind can also impede an individual’s academic success in the future, as some schools are reluctant to admit convicted criminals.
Additionally, many insurance premiums can be raised as a result of a conviction. Often premiums for an individual’s car and homeowners policy will increase when the insurance company learns about the conviction. Ultimately, a conviction for a drug crime can have extremely far-reaching consequences. As a result, do not brush off a marijuana charge as unimportant. Hire an experienced attorney and do the best you can to protect your interests.
Reach Out to Us Today
If you or someone you know has been convicted of a marijuana charge, contact an experienced drug offenses attorney, DC relies on as soon as possible and take the charges seriously. The longer you wait, the fewer options you have. Be sure to find an attorney that is experienced in the area of drug crimes to ensure you have the most competent attorney possible on your side.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. for their insight into drug possession and criminal defense.