Facing Charges for Possession of Marijuana and Other Drugs

 Posted on July 29, 2016 in Drug Charges

When you are found to be in possession of marijuana or other drugs, whether you are in a public place or in the company of friends, you may face serious criminal charges from a number of different angles. The consequences can be even more grave when those charges involve distributing, selling to, or employing minors to sell such drugs.

Penalties for Possession

According to Connecticut law, marijuana charges (and other certain controlled substances) are penalized in the following ways:

• For less than one-half an ounce of a cannabis-type substance, the first offense is a $150 fine, plus a 60-day suspension of driving privileges for anyone under age 21;
• For at least one-half an ounce but less than four ounces of a cannabis-type substance, the first offense means a one-year prison term plus a $1,000 fine. For possession of four ounces or more, you are looking at a five-year prison term and a $2,000 fine; and
• For the sale or possession of a cannabis-type substance with intent to sell, you can face up to seven years in prison, up to a $25,000 fine, and for subsequent offenses that include one kilogram or more, you could face up to 20 years in prison.

These are some basic penalties, but there are various alternative sentences depending on the nature of the crime. Other drug possession, such as alcohol in or near a vehicle, may result in the automatic suspension of driving privileges in addition to fines. If you are found to be intoxicated while operating a vehicle, arrest and prison time are guaranteed penalties, especially if you take and fail a breathalyzer test.

Other Consequences

Penalties for drug possession do not end with fines, jail time, and the suspension of driving privileges. If you are found to be in possession of marijuana in the state of Connecticut, you may also be denied certain privileges such as licensure for a family daycare home or bail enforcement. If you are found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia within 1,500 feet of a school or daycare, you face even harsher consequences.  

Building Your Best Defense

Dealing with drug charges of any kind can trigger an overwhelming sense of panic about your rights, especially when the consequences of your choices have the power to impact your loved ones as well. Without a doubt, criminal drug charges can be far-reaching and have the potential to alter your life in a drastic way.

If you find yourself facing charges for possession of marijuana or other drugs, speak with a reliable, experienced Fairfield County criminal law attorney who can counsel you and protect your best interests. When you seek legal assistance early in your case, proper representation can help minimize the negative effects of drug possession charges. Call the Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner today at 203-348-5846 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cga.ct.gov/2011/rpt/2011-R-0489.htm

http://www.jud.ct.gov/ji/criminal/Part8/8.1-3.htm

http://www.ct.gov/dmv/cwp/view.asp?a=813&q=249562