As of July 2018, all but four states have legalized the use of marijuana in some form. In most states, marijuana is only legal for medicinal use or in the form of cannabidiol oil for medical research; however, nine states have legalized the drug for recreational purposes.
Unfortunately, New York is not one of them.
The state legalized medicinal marijuana in 2016, but the drug remains illegal for recreational purposes. That means those who are caught cultivating, trafficking, selling, or possessing it could face serious penalties.
If you were charged with marijuana possession in New York, your freedom and financial security could be at stake. To determine the most strategic way to proceed, contact LoTempio P.C. Law Group.
Our attorneys have more than 200 years of combined experience practicing law. Call 716-855-3761 to schedule a free case evaluation with one of New York’s leading criminal defense law firms.
Read on to learn about the penalties for marijuana possession in New York:
1. Fines
The fines for marijuana possession in New York range from $100 to $15,000. The potential fine you are facing depends on the amount of marijuana you were allegedly in possession of, whether you have any prior convictions, and several other factors. For example, a first-time offender who is found in possession of less than 25 grams can be fined up to $100, but someone who is arrested with more than 10 pounds of marijuana faces up to $15,000 in fines.
2. Incarceration
Third-time offenders and those who are found with more than 25 grams of marijuana in their possession face potential incarceration. Sentencing can range from 15 days to 15 years depending on the amount of marijuana involved.
A third-time offender who has less than 25 grams in his or her possession faces 15 days in jail. Possessing marijuana in public view is a misdemeanor that comes with a potential 90 days’ incarceration. A person who is found with more than 10 pounds of marijuana faces up to 15 years in prison.
3. Other Penalties
In addition to fines and incarceration, people who are convicted of marijuana possession in New York may be ordered to undergo mandatory drug testing, attend drug awareness classes, report to a probation officer, and submit to electronic monitoring, depending on the severity of their charges and whether they have prior convictions.
Call 716-855-3761 to Speak with a Criminal Defense Attorney in New York
If you’ve been charged with marijuana possession, turn to LoTempio P.C. Law Group. Our criminal defense lawyers will evaluate the circumstances of your arrest, as well as the strength of any evidence the prosecutor has against you, to determine the most strategic way to represent your interests.
Our legal team has a track record of success in criminal cases ranging from DWI to violent crimes. Call 716-855-3761 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer in New York.