Legal Guidance for Marijuana-Related Charges in Pittsburgh

If you’re facing legal trouble due to marijuana crimes such as possession, dealing, cultivation, or transportation, it’s critical to understand that marijuana is still deemed a Schedule I drug under both state and federal categories. In Pennsylvania, carrying even the tiniest amount of marijuana is against the law and risks severe penalties, including jail time, substantial fines, and a lasting mark on your criminal record. Such a record can harm prospects for employment and housing. For those arrested with marijuana or involved in its distribution, it is crucial to seek the expertise of a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer.

 Pittsburgh traffic attorney Sean Logue, with a wealth of knowledge defending clients in drug-related misdemeanors and felonies, is committed to providing you with a robust defense. Boasting ample experience in cases regarding illegal substances, our team promises to fight vigorously on your behalf. Contact Logue Law Group for a complimentary consultation by dialing 844.PITT.DUI or via our online form.

Common Marijuana-Related Violations

Attorney Sean Logue adeptly manages a variety of marijuana infractions within Pennsylvania, such as:

• Simple possession of marijuana for personal usage
• Marijuana possession at the felony level
• Growing cannabis plants
• Distribution of marijuana
• Marijuana trafficking
• Drug paraphernalia possession or use
• Operating a vehicle impaired by marijuana

Please note that this text is not an exhaustive legal guide for handling marijuana charges. Those accused should promptly consult a knowledgeable Pittsburgh DUI attorney.

Updates on Marijuana Regulations in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has enacted several reforms aimed at reducing the penalization for possessing and consuming marijuana, which significantly impacts the arrest counts and overall penalties for such offenses.

Under the city’s Small Amount of Marijuana Program (SAM):

• Individuals found with under 30 grams of marijuana are subject to a fine of $25.
• Those cited for public consumption of marijuana face the choice of a $100 fine or up to nine hours of community service.
• Charges could be dismissed and wiped clean by the District  Pittsburgh PFA attorney for those who pay the fine or complete community service. If the fine goes unpaid or community service is missed, the opportunity remains to make a court appearance in Pittsburgh’s Municipal Court.

Being convicted for possessing a minimal quantity of marijuana can lead to a jail term of 30 days and includes fines and court fees. Additionally, such a conviction will trigger an automatic half-year suspension of your driver’s license by PennDOT, regardless of whether you were driving during the offense.

It’s essential to remember that decriminalization doesn’t equal legalization. State legislation in Pennsylvania still punishes marijuana activities, and the following could result in arrest and prosecution:

• Possession of more than 30 grams of marijuana
• Selling, planning to sell, and distributing marijuana
• Marijuana-influenced driving (cannabis DUI/DWI)
• Cannabis cultivation
• Having marijuana on your person while under probation
• Committing other marijuana-linked crimes that law enforcement has reasonable grounds to charge you with.

Understanding Marijuana Penalties in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania enforces strict rules regarding marijuana, and penalties can escalate to various factors. The legal system takes into account the marijuana quantity, circumstances of distribution, minors’ involvement, and vehicular use during the offense.

Impact of Marijuana Convictions

• Possession Penalties: Holding over 30 grams of marijuana may lead to a one-year incarceration and penalties reaching $5,000.
• Intent to Distribute: If caught with 30 grams or more coupled with the intent to distribute, this is classified as a felony with possible imprisonment up to five years and fines up to $15,000.
• Driving Influence: Operating a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana could land you a six-month jail term and up to $5,000 in fines, with increased sanctions for repeat offenders.
• Cultivation Consequences: Cultivating just a single marijuana plant is considered a felony, potentially resulting in a five-year sentence and fines amounting to $15,000.

Engagement with marijuana could further impact your legal standing, potentially affecting probation status and having ramifications in other legal matters, like child custody disputes. It’s important to note that despite state regulations, marijuana is still illegal federally, and federal authorities continue to treat it as such.

Legal Representation for Marijuana Charges

If facing charges related to marijuana, whether for possession or distribution, securing experienced legal counsel is crucial. Pittsburgh criminal attorney Sean Logueoffers dedicated defense approaches aimed at safeguarding the rights of his clients. With a robust legal background, Sean Loguehas supported numerous Pittsburgh citizens and stands ready to assist with your case.Our office’s track record speaks volumes about our commitment and success. For consultation on a marijuana-related charge with discretion and no charge, contact Sean Logue at 844.PITT.DUI today.