Federal Marijuana Crime Penalties



While several states have adopted lenient stances towards marijuana and even legalized the drug for recreational adult users, it remains illegal on the federal level.

In fact, even if you are using marijuana in a “legal” state, you may still be found guilty of violating federal law.

The facts of your case will determine whether you face a year in jail or 20 years behind bars.

Possession of Marijuana

The penalties you face for possession of marijuana vary based on your criminal history.

First-time offenders face less serious punishment than repeat offenders.

Here are the penalties for federal marijuana possession:

      • First offense — For first-time possession, you face a year in jail, and $1,000 fine.
      • Second Offense — Also a misdemeanor, a second-time marijuana possession offense is punishable by 15 days (mandatory), and up to two years in jail, plus up to a $2,500 fine.
      • Third offense or more — Subsequent offenses may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. If convicted of a third offense, you face 90 days (mandatory), and up to three years in jail, and up to a $5,000 fine.

The federal government means business when it comes to enforcing marijuana laws.

If you or someone you love is arrested for federal marijuana possession, let an experienced Florida federal drug crime lawyer guide you towards a positive resolution.

Dealing and trafficking marijuana

Selling and transporting marijuana are serious offenses that carry steep penalties like long prison sentences and costly fines.

The severity of the penalties you face vary based on the weight in question:

      • Less than 50 kg — For trafficking or dealing less than 50kg of marijuana, you face five years in prison and $250,000 in fines.
      • 50 -99 kg — Trafficking/dealing between 50-99kg is punishable by up to 20 years in a federal prison and a $1,000,000 fine.

Remember, with this type of crime, as the amount being trafficked and number of offenses increases, so do the penalties.

Experienced Florida drug crime defense lawyer fights for you

At the Law Office of Nayib Hassan, P.A., we advocate passionately for clients facing charges for federal marijuana possession, dealing, and trafficking.

For more information about our services, call (305) 403-7323 or contact us online.

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