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So long as marijuana remains illegal, possession and distribution of the substance will lead to legal action when discovered. However, it is important to note that the charges an individual faces for such is directly proportionate to both the quantity that he or she has as well as whether or not he or she has been accused of distributing the marijuana.
What Are the Penalties?
If you are found with illegal marijuana possession, you will face penalties. These include the following:
- Class 1 Misdemeanor – If an individual is found to possess over a ½ ounce, up to 120 days in jail.
- Class 3 Misdemeanor – If an individual is found in possession of less than ½ oz, up to 20 days in jail.
- Class I Felony – If an individual is found in possession of more than 1.5 ounces, up to 24 months in prison.
What is Distribution?
Those who are found to be distributing marijuana will face more serious penalties than those who are only found to be in possession. Distribution includes selling, giving, or delivering marijuana. If someone is selling or distributing marijuana, penalties will be the following:
- Class I Felony – If an individual is found to be distributing, this is a Class 1 Felony. However, this does not include when an individual provides less than 5 grams of marijuana to another individual without an exchange of anything in return.
- Class H Felony – If an individual is found to be selling or distributing 10 to 50 pounds of marijuana, penalties will include fines of up to $5,000 and 25 to 30 months in prison.
- Class G Felony – If an individual is found to be selling or distributing 50 to 2,000 pounds of marijuana, penalties will include fines of up to $25,000 and 35 to 42 months in prison.
- Class F Felony – If an individual is found to be selling or distributing 2,000 to 10,000 pounds of marijuana, penalties will include fines of up to $50,000 and 70 to 84 months in prison.
- Class D Felony – If an individual is found to be selling or distributing more than 10,000 pounds of marijuana, penalties will include fines of up to $200,000 and 175 to 219 months in prison.
When an individual distributes a high volume of drugs, it is considered to be drug trafficking.
There are also aggravating factors of possession, which include bringing marijuana into the U.S. or distributing it to minors.
Joel Hancock, lead Attorney at Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Can Help Those in NC Who Have Been Charged with Drug Possession or Distribution
A marijuana possession or distribution conviction can have extremely serious consequences that may affect you long-term if not indefinitely. Not only is your freedom at risk, but so is your permanent reputation. That is why it is so important to rely upon a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense attorney. If you or a loved one has been charged with possession or distribution of marijuana, Hancock Law Firm can help. To schedule a free consultation, fill out a form or call us at 262-221-3047 today!