Drug Crime Defense in DuPage County and Kane County
It is a mistake to think that "it's only marijuana." Drug charges must always be taken seriously, including possession of marijuana. Depending on the amount and the circumstances, a conviction can result in jail or prison time, a criminal record, license suspension and ramifications for employment or school.
At the law offices of Michael T. Norris, Ltd. and John W. Callahan, Ltd., our goal is to get cases dismissed or keep a marijuana bust off your record. We have helped many clients safeguard their future by aggressively fighting the charges.
Call us at 1-877-FELONY-3 today to speak within minutes with an experienced drug possession defense lawyer. You can also e-mail us.
Experienced Criminal Defense for Marijuana Possession
Marijuana charges are based chiefly on the amount and prior convictions, with sharply rising penalties at each level:
- Simple possession of marijuana (a few joints or a small bag) is a civil citation in New York, similar to a traffic ticket. The punishment is a fine, but you will have to appear in court. A third offense of simple possession becomes a misdemeanor crime with possible jail time.
- Possession of 25 grams or more — or any amount smoked in public view — is a misdemeanor with up to 30 days in jail.
- Possession of 2 ounces or more is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine.
- At 8 ounces or more, marijuana possession becomes a felony, with one to four years in prison and a fine up to $5,000.
The law gets more complex and the penalties are enhanced for gift, sale, delivery or cultivation of marijuana, especially for sale to a minor. The charges range from a class B misdemeanor all the way to a class C felony and 15 years in prison.
Our attorneys can explain where you stand and provide the effective representation you need. We have had success in challenging the traffic stop or search and seizure that resulted in a marijuana arrest. If the charges stick, we will explore first-time offender programs to avoid the conviction, negotiate with prosecutors to knock the charges down, or take your case to trial.
For a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer, you can reach us 24 hours a day at 1-877-FELONY-3. You can also e-mail us.
