The first thing you need to do if you are charged with marijuana possession is find an experienced, skilled attorney to defend you against these charges. Even though you may have heard that Ohio is soft on first time possession charges, any drug conviction in Ohio will result in a suspended driver’s license, with the suspension lasting anywhere from six months to five years.
If this is a first-time marijuana possession offense, you may find some penalties and sentencing leniency in Ohio. Recently Ohio has decriminalized possession of small amounts for personal use, so the penalty amounts to a minor violation. Be aware, though, if the charge is in connection with a moving violation (operating a vehicle impaired or OVI), penalties will become substantially more serious. Furthermore, even a first possession charge has the potential to negatively impact both your present and your future.
There are a variety of ways to approach your case. You may either consider entering a plea on marijuana possession charges, or you can contest the charges. If you choose to contest the charges, your attorney may work with the prosecuting attorney to craft an acceptable plea bargain agreement to allow you to avoid the license suspension.
If an acceptable plea bargain is not available, your attorney my contest whether the State has enough evidence to prove a marijuana possession charge. Questioning the legality of the stop and search used to find the evidence is another way to challenge these charges.
Here is a quick summary of the penalties for various marijuana offenses:
|
MARIJUANA POSSESSION |
|
|
|
|
Offense |
Maximum Jail Time |
Maximum Fine |
Charge |
|
Less than 100 grams |
0 |
$150 |
Misdemeanor |
|
Between 100 and 200 grams |
30 days |
$250 |
Misdemeanor |
|
Between 200 and 1,000 grams |
1 year |
$2,500 |
Felony |
|
Between 1,000 and 5,000 grams |
5 years |
$10,000 |
Felony |
|
Between 5,000 and 20,000 grams |
5 years |
$10,000 |
Felony |
|
Between 20,000 and 40,000 grams |
8 years |
$15,000 |
Felony |
|
More than 40,000 grams |
8 years |
$15,000 |
Felony |
Source: Ohio Revised Code
Do You Need a Marijuana Possession Defense Attorney in Columbus, Ohio?
If you are facing Marijuana possession charges in Columbus, Ohio, you need an attorney who knows the law and can help you with these charges. Get the representation of a skilled and trusted attorney who can give you the help you need. The Maher Law Firm can help make sure that your rights are protected. Founding attorney, Colin Maher, has in-depth knowledge and experience working with marijuana possession and criminal defense cases. Call The Maher Law Firm today for a free consultation at 614-205-2208 or contact us online.
