Drug charges in the state of California carry seriously heavy legal consequences. Some of the existing laws have also recently been amended to sport even more rigid punishments, particularly in terms of the act of possessing, soliciting, and agreeing to engage in activities involving such dangerous drugs. In particular, the state of California has focused on strengthening its marijuana laws. This is owing to the still steadily rising cases of marijuana possession, manufacturing, and distribution in the state.
What is the significance of understanding the changes in the existing marijuana laws in the state? For one thing, there is also what is known as “medical marijuana,” the possession and cultivation thereof which are not considered as illegal acts. Hence, one should be very careful when handling this type of drug because there are circumstances that might change things around and make you liable for serious drug charges. In the case of medical marijuana, the moment you distribute and sell the same, that would now constitute a criminal act punishable by the pertinent laws. However, even when you just possess and cultivate the same but without prior recommendation or approval by a physician, this mat also constitute as an offense.
Now when it comes to marijuana per se, there are certain changes introduced to existing marijuana laws in the state as of January 1, 2011. For example, possession of one ounce or less of marijuana is still considered as an infraction under Ca Health and Safety Code 11357b. Thus, even if you will have no criminal record for the same, you will still be liable to pay certain fines and fees. Possession of larger amounts of the drug will make the offender liable for both fines and jail terms, depending on the amount and whether or not other aggravating circumstances are present. One example is when you are caught driving under the influence of drugs such as marijuana and other crimes were committed such as a hit and run DUI, homicide, or manslaughter.
In addition to all these, selling and distribution of marijuana to minors are now considered not merely as misdemeanors but as felonies under the Health and Safety Code 11361. This simply means that higher penalties are imposed for the crime committed. If you have been charged under the marijuana laws in the state, you cannot afford to waste time and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in California as soon as possible.
