Massachusetts Marijuana Penalties

Massachusetts is home to many colleges and universities and thus has a large college-aged population. Many of these individuals may find themselves in trouble with the law due to dorm and fraternity parties, which often include marijuana and narcotics. Those found with one ounce or less of marijuana face only a civil offense with a fine of $100. Those found with more than one ounce will face misdemeanor charges, with penalties of up to 6 months in jail, fines of up to $500, and probation.

Penalties become more serious when charges of sale or cultivation are filed. Sale or cultivation of less than 50 pounds of marijuana is charged as a misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 2 years of jail time and fines of up to $5,000 on a first offense and up to $10,000 on a second offense. Sales or cultivation of more than 50 pounds of marijuana turns into a felony with penalties increasing as the poundage increases. 50 to 100 pounds results in a mandatory minimum sentence of one year with a potential for up to 15 years and fines up to $10,000. Those found selling marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school or within 100 feet of a park will face an additional two years of a mandatory minimum sentence and additional fines.

Charged with a drug crime in Boston or the surrounding areas?

If you have been arrested on marijuana or other drug possession charges, you may be confused and worried about what to do next. In such a case, the most important action you can take is to talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney to get the facts and likelihood of what will occur in the court system. Attorney Thomas A. Brant and his firm has offices across the state and the legal team has former prosecutors whose understanding of how criminal cases are conducted has given them a deep understanding of criminal defense. By contacting the offices about your case, you can get the answers you need and the legal representation that can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.