Are You in Need of a Drug Lawyer Near Rochester, NY?

Cannabis laws have been changing rapidly over the last decade. Many states, including New York, are reconsidering their stance on marijuana. While New York hasn’t outright legalized cannabis like Colorado or Washington, lawmakers have significantly reduced the penalties for cannabis possession in the Empire State. Additionally, legislators continually develop New York’s medical marijuana system.

If an offender possesses less than one ounce of cannabis, they’ll only face a $50 fine. The state doesn’t punish low-level possession offenders with jail time. Low-level possession charges also won’t affect your criminal record.

However, if an offender is arrested with more than an ounce of marijuana, they’ll face greater punishments including criminal charges. They include:

• First-degree cannabis possession – Possession of one or two ounces of marijuana is a civil violation. Punishable by fines up to $200.
• Possession of between two and eight ounces of cannabis is punishable by a $1,000 fine.
• If an offender possesses between eight and 16 ounces of cannabis, the state may sentence them to up to four years in prison and $5,000 in fines.
• Possessing between 16 ounces and 10 pounds of cannabis is a serious offense. Punishable by up to seven years in prison and $5,000 in fines.
• If an offender has more than 10 pounds of marijuana, they could end up in jail for 15 years and pay $5,000 in fines.

If the police arrested you for drug possession, an attorney can help. A drug lawyer can ensure that the police don’t violate your rights during your marijuana case.