Understanding Felony Marijuana Possession Laws in Ohio

The Legal Landscape of Cannabis Offenses

In Ohio, possessing small amounts of marijuana is typically treated as a misdemeanor. However, if the amount you’re caught with exceeds a specific limit, the charge can be elevated to a felony. Felony offenses come with much more severe consequences than misdemeanors, including stricter penalties and longer potential jail time.

Critical Consequences of Felony Charges

A felony conviction for marijuana possession extends far beyond just jail time and large fines. It can have a lasting negative impact on your life. A skilled New Castle criminal lawyer can help you navigate these serious potential outcomes.

• Increased prison sentences: Felonies carry the possibility of significant time behind bars.
• Larger financial penalties: The fines associated with felony convictions are substantially higher.
• Impact on other rights: A felony record can affect your right to vote, own a firearm, and can create barriers to employment and housing.

In situations where the quantity of marijuana is particularly large, you could also face charges of drug trafficking. These charges carry their own severe mandatory prison sentences, making expert legal defense even more critical.

Seek Expert Legal Defense in New Castle, OH

If you are facing charges for felony marijuana possession in Coshocton County, it is vital to secure experienced legal representation immediately. The Youngstown Criminal Law Group is dedicated to defending individuals accused of a wide range of marijuana-related crimes, including possession with intent to distribute, throughout Ohio communities.

Sean Logue, an experienced New Castle DUI lawyer, meticulously examines all evidence and police procedures to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This thorough approach can create opportunities to have your charges reduced or even dismissed entirely. Contact us at (330) 992-3036 for a free case review and an honest assessment of your legal situation.

Felony Marijuana Charges Based on Amount

Ohio law specifies different felony levels based on the weight of marijuana involved in the possession charge:

• 200g to 999g: This is classified as a fifth-degree felony.
• 1,000g to 4,999g: This amount constitutes a third-degree felony.
• 5,000g to 19,999g: This also falls under the category of a third-degree felony, but often with more serious sentencing considerations.
• 20,000g to 39,999g: Possession of this quantity is a second-degree felony.
• 40,000 grams and above: This is also a second-degree felony, carrying the most severe penalties.

A knowledgeable New Castle criminal lawyer can explain how these amounts apply to your specific case and build a strong defense.

Potential Penalties for Felony Possession in New Castle

The consequences for a felony marijuana possession conviction in Ohio vary based on the degree of the felony:

• Fifth-degree: Carries a sentence of up to 12 months in jail and/or fines reaching up to $2,500.
• Third-degree (1,000g – 4,999g): Can result in up to 18 months of incarceration and/or fines up to $5,000. Prison time is a distinct possibility.
• Third-degree (5,000g – 19,999g): The penalties are the same as the lower-tier third-degree felony, but the probability of a prison sentence is significantly higher.
• Second-degree (20,000g – 39,999g): This conviction comes with a mandatory prison term of five to eight years and potential fines of up to $15,000.
• Second-degree (40,000g and above): Involves a compulsory maximum sentence of eight years in prison and a possible fine of up to $15,000.

Hiring a New Castle DUI lawyer with criminal defense experience is essential when facing such serious penalties.

Youngstown Criminal Law Group | Your Defense Against Felony Possession Charges

Have you been arrested for a felony marijuana offense in Ohio? It is crucial that you do not speak with law enforcement officers without a defense attorney present. The Youngstown Criminal Law Group is ready to provide the immediate, effective legal defense you need.

New Castle criminal lawyer Sean Logue has extensive experience as a defense attorney in New Castle, supporting clients in numerous localities within and around Coshocton County. He will provide a personalized review of your case and explain the viable legal strategies available to you. Contact us today at (330) 992-3036 or through our online form for a complimentary consultation and take the first step in addressing your legal challenges.