Minnesota Marijuana Possession Lawyer

Possession of marijuana is one of the most common drug offenses, and it is prosecuted regularly in the local court system. Though judges may be more lenient in sentencing this crime, especially for first-time offenders, the consequences of marijuana possession can be significant. To avoid any serious penalties and the stigma of a criminal record, you should reach out to a Minnesota marijuana possession lawyer as soon as possible.

How Does Law Enforcement Treat Marijuana Possession?

The severity with which law enforcement will pursue marijuana charges depends primarily on the amount of the substance. If a person is found in possession of a small amount under 42.5 grams, they would be charged with a petty misdemeanor. The penalty for this offense is only a maximum fine of $300.00. No jail time is involved.

However, if someone has a small amount of marijuana in their vehicle, they could also face misdemeanor charges. Depending on how much they have in their vehicle, the offense could be elevated to a gross misdemeanor. An even larger amount can warrant felony charges.

The consequences of simple marijuana possession have been minimized by recent changes in state law, but it is important to note that significant amounts of this drug can still result in serious criminal penalties such as hefty fines and extended jail time. A person who has questions or concerns regarding the shifting rules surrounding this offense should contact a Minnesota marijuana possession attorney.

Implications of a Conviction

In drug cases involving marijuana possession, it may be possible for the defendant to get a stay of adjudication, especially if this is their first offense. This means their charges could be dismissed after a period of time if they follow the conditions set by the judge.

Additionally, if marijuana is a factor in a motor vehicle case, the defendant will have to face added criminal charges and the associated consequences. Upon conviction, the state will take away the defendant’s driver’s license for a period of time, even if they did not drive under the influence at the time. Simply the act of possessing marijuana inside of a vehicle triggers a driver’s license suspension, which a Minnesota lawyer could help fight.

The implications of a marijuana possession charge could last for years after a conviction. It may bar individuals from obtaining employment, educational, or housing opportunities. A person’s drug history is easily visible on a background check, which is why if someone is accused of marijuana possession, they should hire a Minnesota lawyer early on to help them build the strongest defense possible to avoid a conviction.

Call a Minnesota Attorney Immediately if You Have Been Charged with Marijuana Possession

If you have been accused of marijuana possession, it is imperative that you seek qualified legal advice from a nearby attorney right away. A skilled Minnesota marijuana possession lawyer could work diligently to help you avoid a criminal record and ensure that your constitutional rights are not violated during the legal process. Contact us today to learn more about your options and get started on your case.