About Medical Marijuana and Criminal Charges

You Can Be Charged

Just because you purchased marijuana at an approved distributor does not mean that you cannot be charged with possession. Although state law has decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana does not necessary mean that you are safe when carrying the substance, even if you have what you consider to be a legal right to possess the substance. Those who possess more than 28.5 grams of marijuana are subject to misdemeanor criminal charges. When the substance in question is "concentrated cannabis" can be punished with up to one year in jail. Parolees who are caught with medical marijuana, even with a fully justified need for the substance, are subject to criminal charges and should immediately contact a Riverside drug crime attorney from Law Offices of Paul Grech.

Medical Marijuana Defense Lawyer in Riverside

In 1996, state voters approved the "Compassionate Use Act" so that those suffering from certain conditions could use marijuana for medical purposes. This has led to a huge increase in medical marijuana providers throughout the state and in Riverside specifically. This has led to many of these dispensaries coming under investigation and being shut down and the individuals involved charged with felony offenses. The guidelines for possession, cultivation or transportation of medical marijuana are extremely strict, and if you are found to have violated any of the provisions of the state or federal laws related to marijuana, you could face severe penalties. This includes cases in which an individual who has a valid need for the substance for medical reasons growing more plants or possessing more than law enforcement considers is "reasonably related to their current medical needs". This is currently measured at eight ounces (dried) or six large (mature) plants. If law enforcement is suspicious and finds more plants or a higher amount in possession, you could be facing felony charges.

One should not assume that they are safe from prosecution if they buy their marijuana at a dispensary and have a recommendation from a physician. Those who are connected to a dispensary that has been shut down will likely be under scrutiny; law enforcement can be arbitrary about who they consider to have a valid reason for possession and who doesn't. Our legal team is very familiar with current law related to marijuana possession, cultivation and transportation and can evaluate your case and advise you as to the best course of action if you have been arrested and charged.

Contact a Riverside Drug Crime Attorney if you have been arrested in a medical marijuana case.