Penalties imposed for possession or distribution of marijuana vary depending on the seriousness of the related charge. Where marijuana possession involves a minor quantity, the commensurate penalties are also limited. The punishment gets more severe, however, as the weight of the marijuana involved increases. Our defense attorneys are well versed in marijuana penalties and, more importantly, the best approach to minimize the punishment to which an individual is exposed. If you or a loved one was charged with a marijuana offense, a lawyer from our firm would be happy to assist you. An attorney is available 24/7 for a free initial consultation at 1-877-450-8377, so do not delay in getting the advice you need.
Possession Penalties
Possession of Less than Fifty (50) Grams of Marijuana is a disorderly persons offense punishable by up to six (6) months in jail. Possession of More than Fifty (50) Grams of Marijuana is a Fourth Degree offense punishable by up to eighteen (18) months in jail.
Distribution Penalties
The following table shows the degree of offense, weight of marijuana involved, the jail exposure, and the fine amount for each category of marijuana distribution.
| First Degree | 25 lbs. or More | 10-20 years prison | Up to $300,000 |
| Second Degree | 5-25 lbs. | 5-10 years prison | Up to $150,000 |
| Third Degree | 1 Ounce – 5 lbs | 0-5 years in prison | Up to $25,000 |
| Fourth Degree | Less than 1 Ounce | 0-18 months jail | Up to $10,000 |
Mandatory Drivers License Suspension
In addition to the aforesaid penalties, an individual is exposed to a six (6) month mandatory drivers license suspension if convicted of possession of marijuana or distributing marijuana. This suspension can, however, be avoided if a sufficient showing of “hardship” can be demonstrated by defense counsel.
If you or a loved one was charged with a marijuana related offense in New Jersey, you should have every opportunity to avoid or mitigate your exposure to penalties. Our attorneys can certainly provide you with the assistance you are looking for. A lawyer from our office would be happy to discuss your case and to explore the defenses you possess. Why give up your license or, worse yet, simply roll over on a distribution charge which can never be removed from your record? There is no reason in our view as our lawyers are almost always successful in helping those charged with a marijuana crime. Give us a call for a free initial consultation at 1-877-450-8301.
