Marijuana Possession

Seattle Marijuana Possession Defense Attorneys

Comprehensive Overview of Seattle’s Marijuana Laws

Marijuana laws all over the country are changing and the landscape of what is acceptable and legal is fundamentally changing. In Washington State, too, there have been radical changes and shifts towards more lenient laws and, in some quantities, complete legalization. However, much of marijuana activity is still illegal and there are very strict limits to possession that are enforced by significant fines and jail time.

If you've been charged with marijuana possession, then it is absolutely time to speak to legal counsel about your case and possible impending penalties. Not only can many of these cases be argued down, but, at Guadagno Law, PLLC, we are well-versed in helping clients achieve reductions and even dismissals for their drug possession charges.

You do not have to let these charges interrupt your life. Call (206) 895-6800 or reach out online to our team of experienced Seattle marijuana possession lawyers today.

Is Marijuana Legal in Seattle? Key Facts

If you are a consumer of marijuana, then it is critical to understand what your rights are under Washington law. In 2012, Washington state legalized marijuana for recreational use through the passage of Initiative 502 for adults aged 21 and older.

Carrying one ounce or less of marijuana is legal; however, anything more than that and you become vulnerable to a misdemeanor or felony possession charge.

Additionally, it is illegal to smoke marijuana in public places, within view of minors, or while driving a motor vehicle. Marijuana is illegal for individuals under the age of 21, and penalties are more severe for those underage in possession of marijuana.

Understanding the Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Seattle

Illegal marijuana quantities and their penalties include:

40 grams or less (misdemeanor): up to 90 days in jail and $1000 in fines
More than 40 grams (felony): up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 in fines

It should be noted here that if any intent to distribute the marijuana the accused is found in possession of is seen as a felony. Public consumption of less than one ounce (the legal amount) may also result in a $100 civil penalty. In addition, it is not legal to grow, sell, or use marijuana in public and remains completely illegal for those under the age of 21.

Effective Defenses Against Marijuana Possession Charges

Common defenses for marijuana possession charges include illegal search and seizure, where any evidence obtained through an unlawful search or traffic stop may be inadmissible. If you were unaware that marijuana was in your possession, such as if someone else placed it in your vehicle or belongings, this lack of knowledge can be a defense. Additionally, if facing charges for possession with intent to distribute, your lawyer may argue that the evidence does not support the claim of trafficking.

Other defenses may involve medical marijuana use, especially if you possess a medical marijuana card. Your lawyer can argue that you are exempt from certain charges if you were using marijuana for medicinal purposes. Lastly, chain of custody issues may arise, and if the prosecution cannot prove the integrity of the evidence, your defense attorney can challenge its validity in court.

Why Choose Guadagno Law for Your Marijuana Possession Defense?

Many marijuana possession charges may be minor misdemeanors, but many of them are also worth defending against. A drug charge, even if it is a misdemeanor, can haunt a permanent record and negatively affect future opportunities. You owe it to yourself to explore your legal options and ensure that a possible reduction or dismissal is properly pursued. At Guadagno Law, PLLC, we are absolutely ready to help you do that and move on with your life with minimal penalty.

In some cases, we may be able to secure alternative sentencing on your behalf. Alternative sentencing for marijuana sentencing can include probation, diversion programs, a first-time offender waiver, or a drug offender sentencing alternative. Only working with a lawyer can these benefits be available to you, and we can discuss your options for these initiatives in your first meeting with our legal team. We can additionally challenge your possession of the substance and whether the search was legal.

Don't hesitate to get help today, contact us online or call (206) 895-6800 to schedule a free case evaluation.

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