Marijuana
Worcester Marijuana Defense Lawyers
Serving Middlesex & Hampden Counties
Marijuana is classified as a class D controlled substance in Massachusetts, and each state often carries its own set of laws regarding the possession of marijuana. The Worcester and Springfield criminal defense lawyers at Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP possess a thorough and up-to-date knowledge of federal and state laws regarding marijuana.
Looking for a marijuana lawyer? Massachusetts residents should contact us online or call (508) 570-3037 today for a free consultation.
Marijuana Lawyer: Massachusetts Law Regarding Marijuana
Marijuana, also known as weed, dope, herb, and chronic, was decriminalized in Massachusetts in 2008. Medicinal marijuana became legal in 2012, and possession of one ounce or less by legal adults became legal in 2016. However, there are still fines and penalties with marijuana. Possession of less than one ounce of marijuana is punishable by a fine of $100, but the incident is not put on the person’s criminal record. Possession cases where the amount exceeds one ounce, or those that involve intent to distribute or traffic, will still carry legal ramifications.
Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Initiative
In 2012, residents in Massachusetts voted in favor of the Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Initiative that would allow prescribed patients to possess a supply of marijuana to last them up to 60 days without risk of penalty. Patients with a number of conditions ranging from cancer and AIDS to anxiety and gastrointestinal upset may now, under law, be able to obtain a marijuana card that acts as a prescription to obtain and possess the drug. Medical marijuana is legal for personal at-home use only, however, and only by the person who has the medical marijuana card granted by a qualified doctor.
Some signs or symptoms of marijuana use include:
- Red eyes
- Increased appetite
- Increased heart rate
- Slowed reaction time
- Higher blood pressure
- Dry mouth
These effects may vary from person to person, and some may experience all of these symptoms while others experience none.
Trafficking charges are ones that require the help of a marijuana lawyer. Massachusetts penalties for trafficking cases involving 50 pounds or more of marijuana involves 2.5 to 15 years in prison as well as a $25,000 fine. In the most extreme cases involving 10,000 pounds of marijuana or more, the penalty includes 8 to 15 years in prison along with fines up to $200,000.
For charges of suspected distribution or an intent to sell marijuana, a person may face up to two years in jail as well as fines between $500 and $5,000. In distribution cases, a person’s past convictions will often dictate the severity of the punishment. Do you need a marijuana lawyer? Massachusetts cities of Worcester and Springfield are served by the criminal defense attorneys at Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP can work hard to build your case and passionately defend you in court.
Request a FREE Consultation or Call (508) 570-3037.
We are devoted to effective trial lawyering. We know how to deliver aggressive defense strategies and we know how to speak to juries and judges alike.
Marijuana Use & Penalties for Trafficking or Distribution
Marijuana is considered to be a “downer,” or a drug that slows the body down rather than speeding it up. It has many effects on the body including feelings of euphoria, reported pain relief, increased appetite, and uplifted mood. The reports of pain relief and increased appetite are two major reasons that medical marijuana has been legalized in the state of Massachusetts, and those who suffer from various conditions find these effects to benefit their quality of life. Do you need a marijuana lawyer? Massachusetts cities of Worcester and Springfield are served by the law offices of Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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“The communication was clear, precise, and consistent; they answered all of our questions with a lot of patience.” - Jeanette F.
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“They were truly the best attorneys I could have asked for.” - Louie W.
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“Him and his staff are attentive, and respectful when it came to dealing with this case.” - Nilson Crespo