Marijuana (weed/pot) is the most frequently used illegal drug. Though this controlled substance may be the most widely accepted– as much as something illegal can be—the penalties for violating marijuana laws can severe under Pennsylvania law. With the assistance of a local defense lawyer, you may be able to avoid some of the harshest penalties and consequences.
Drug Possession is a serious crime and Pennsylvania drug laws can be tricky. The consequences of a criminal conviction can be serious, and can affect your for the rest of your life visit https://www.arcannabis.ca/weed-delivery-near-me/weed-delivery-vancouver.
The best way to prevent the worst penalties is to have solid, experienced legal representation to protect your rights. That’s why we offer a free consultation on drug arrests to anyone who calls. I represent people across Western Pennsylvania and the Greater Pittsburgh area who are charged with drug offenses.
Pennsylvania Marijuana Possession Penalties
Some simple marijuana possession charge penalties are as follows:
Possession of Marijuana:
| 30 grams or less | Misdemeanor | up to 30 days in jail and $500 in fines |
| more than 30 grams | Felony | up to 1 year in jail and $5000 in fines |
In the case of a first offense marijuana possession charge , it is possible to get a probation without a verdict. For second (2nd) offense charges or multiple subsequent offenses, the penalties will usually double.
Also, if you are arrested and charged with have more than than 30 grams of marijuana, the police may charge you with possession with intent to distribute.
Selling/Distributing Marijuana Penalties (Intent to Distribute)
- Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2500
- For selling to a minor, under , it can be a felony charge of up to 2 years in jail and a $5000 fine.
Marijuana Possession Defense Strategies
There are a number of ways to fight a drug possession case. The state has to prove that:
- The pot was actually yours, or in your possession
- That the police had the right and probable cause to search your person or property
- That the substance is tested and actually an illegal drug
…and more. The motions we may file will depend on the particular facts and strengths of your case.
If it doesn’t look like there is a good chance to beat the case, or if you are not comfortable with fighting the case, there are usually good options to settle the charges. Often lesser penalties can be negotiated, such as drug treatment programs. With more serious charges, we may be able to negotiate house arrest instead of jail time.
If you’re facing a drug possession charge in Pennsylvania, call now for a free consultation. You can find out exactly what penalties you may be facing under Pennsylvania Drug laws for any drug related charge. We can lay out some defense options for you, and how we can help.