There are many people in Florida who use marijuana for a variety of reasons. Some may use it for medicinal purposes and when it is prescribed, it is legal to use. People also use it for personal reasons as well. People who use it in this way are still doing so illegally though. People who are caught possessing marijuana, still can face significant penalties, but the severity of the penalty depends on various factors.
Penalties for marijuana possession
The amount of marijuana that people possess is the main factor in determining the potential penalties. If the amount is less than 20 grams, people can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor and people could be sentenced to a maximum of 1 year in jail in addition to fines. If the amount is between 20 grams and 25 pounds, people could be sentenced up to five years in jail. If the amount is above 25 pounds it is no longer considered possession and is instead considered trafficking.
Penalties for marijuana trafficking
People who sell marijuana and especially sell large amounts of it face significantly more severe penalties. If people are caught trafficking between 25 pounds and 2000 pounds people could be sent to jail for a minimum of three years and be fined $25,000. If the amount is between 2000 and 10,000 pounds the potential penalties are a minimum of 7 years in jail and a $50,000 fine. Any amount above 10,000 pounds, its potentially 15 years in jail and a $200,000 fine.
There are many people who use marijuana in Florida and as it is illegal for most, there are many people who also sell it illegally. While people who are convicted face significant penalties, people who are only charged are not automatically guilty and there may be defenses available to them. Experienced attorneys understand these potential defenses and may be able to help protect one’s rights.