Legal Help if You’re Charged With Marijuana Possession

Marijuana is the most popular drug in America and arguably the most popular drug in the world. Approximately half of Americans, some 78 million people, claimed to have used marijuana at some point in their lifetime.

You could be in trouble for even a little bit of marijuana. If you've never been through the legal system before, it could be hard to deal with a marijuana possession charge. You can be worried about getting fined, going to jail, losing your job, or losing your driver's license. The good news is that legal help is widely available. Keep in mind that you have rights and you can exercise them to protect yourself.

You don’t have to speak to the police without a lawyer. If they conducted a search or arrested you without proper cause, a lawyer can challenge that and even get evidence thrown out.

These are just a few of your rights if you are charged with marijuana possession. Consulting a drug lawyer or weed lawyer near you can be beneficial during this case. This article will help you better understand how to defend yourself from marijuana possession allegations.

Understanding Marijuana Possession Laws in Your State

States have different marijuana possession laws. Knowing the distinctions of marijuana laws between states might help you understand the scope of the laws. Some states fully legalized their usage, while some strictly prohibited it.

You should understand the limits for possession, usage areas, and penalties that apply in your state. Some regions, for instance, distinguish between amounts based on jail time and fines.

Marijuana is federally affiliated with the category of a Schedule I substance, increasing confusion among people who want to use it. Keep yourself updated with recent happenings and any developments in open regulations from time to time.

Drug crime lawyer Geoffrey D. Kearney says possession of marijuana below four ounces results in misdemeanor charges, while amounts above this threshold trigger felony charges.

Understanding these rights keeps you out of trouble and helps you manage the complex legal process.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Since laws concerning marijuana possession can be complicated, a lawyer will greatly improve your chances in such cases. A competent lawyer understands the law and will see to it that you understand your rights and options.

They analyze your case, prepare defenses, and advocate for your interests in the court. Their legal expertise can help reduce the charges or come up with a favorable plea deal.

These legal professionals can save you from committing costly mistakes that could jeopardize your case. You should avoid trying to handle a marijuana possession charge without legal counsel. Get an attorney to protect your future and increase your chances of a positive result.

Potential Defenses Against Possession Charges

Marijuana possession charges may be scary, but many legal defense strategies can help lessen the burden of proof against you.

One way to pursue this would be unlawful search and seizure. Any evidence obtained would be excluded if law enforcement lacked either a legitimate warrant or probable cause.

The question of ownership comes into play. If the marijuana wasn’t under your control, you may avoid the charge. You can argue that the amount was for personal use, not trafficking, as the level of offense depends on this distinction.

Showing that you did not know there was marijuana present would be another solid defense.

The Impact of a Conviction on Your Future

Being convicted of marijuana possession can have lasting consequences, particularly on your employment chances and relationships.

Employers usually conduct background checks and you will likely fail a job application if your prospective employer sees your criminal record. A conviction restricts your career advancement and growth in every field. You will have a difficult time obtaining licenses or security clearances if you have a record of being convicted.

Even in relationships, a conviction may foster animosity toward you. Friends or family members may judge you and distance themselves from you. The effect of a conviction could be felt on housing, loans, or educational programs.

These are some of the harsh consequences that you may possibly face if you are not successful in defending yourself from the marijuana possession charge against you.

Steps to Take After Being Charged

It is really hard to deal with a possession charge for marijuana. You must think of the potential implications of the charge and how it will affect your life going forward. Stay calm and avoid panicking. Record all relevant details that can help strengthen your case. These details can include the time, date, and the name of the officer who arrested you.

Find a competent lawyer who can take your case, since these details will largely affect the outcome. Open a discussion about the case with them and follow the advice given strictly.

Collect evidence, such as witnesses and medical reports, which can be added to your case. Don't skip even one court appearance and be there on time.

Alternatives to jail time are diversion programs and plea bargains, and these may be helpful in avoiding penalties of incarceration or lead to obtaining a relatively mild sentence.