Marijuana Possession Penalties
For those charged with possession of under 1 kilogram of marijuana, not for resale or distribution, the misdemeanor marijuana possession charges are lowest for first offenders and then increase in their severity. In situations where the charge is based on sales of drug paraphernalia, the penalties can be increased to a felony if the item is sold to a minor child. Depending on the factors listed above, the penalties for possession can include:
- a fine (typically up to $2000)
- jail time (typically less than one year in jail)
- mandatory drug testing
- drug awareness classes
- probation
- electronic monitoring
Marijuana Possession Sentencing
Although possession of marijuana is typically not considered as serious as other types of drug or controlled substance charges, judges have sometimes imposed fairly stiff sentences even on first time offenders. As noted, the individual's age, prior convictions and overall standing in the community are typically taken into consideration as to what type of sentence is the most effective. For those that have a driver's license, suspension of the license can also occur and may be ordered by judges under specific situations. An attorney can assist in minimizing the sentence by working with the prosecuting attorney to plea bargain or agree to a treatment program rather than a conviction.