In recent times, many states have decided to legalize marijuana for recreational or medical use, but unfortunately, New Hampshire is not one of them. Although neighboring states in New England and the Mid-Atlantic regions have more lenient laws, using or distributing marijuana remains strictly forbidden in New Hampshire.  

Individuals charged with marijuana possession can face numerous years in jail and extremely high fines, and if the court believes that an individual intended to sell the marijuana in question, the punishment will be even greater.  

If you or someone you care about has been charged with marijuana possession, you should hire a New Hampshire marijuana possession lawyer. Contact a skilled drug lawyer who can build a solid case for you.

Penalties for Marijuana Possession

As any New Hampshire marijuana possession lawyer knows, the amount of marijuana involved will be the focal point of the case. Simply put, the more marijuana an individual is charged with possessing, the more severe legal penalties they will face.  

Possessing even a small quantity of marijuana can land an individual in jail for up to a year and force them to pay a fine of up to $2,000. Possessing a small amount of marijuana is considered a misdemeanor offense in this state.  

If a person is believed to have possessed a large quantity of marijuana, they can face years in prison and astronomical fines, especially if it is not their first offense. If convicted, a person can also face the following difficulties in their personal life:  

  • A permanent criminal record 
  • Difficulty finding employment  
  • Inability to pass a background check 
  • Loss of voting privileges  
  • Inability to apply for federal financial aid  

When possession becomes a felony, it is best to hire a New Hampshire marijuana possession lawyer.  

Possession With the Intent to Sell or Distribute

First-time offenders and individuals who intended to use the marijuana in question for personal use may be able to have their charges dismissed with the help of a New Hampshire marijuana possession lawyer. In court, the prosecuting attorney will be charged with proving the defendant was in possession of marijuana.  

If a person is found guilty of marijuana possession with the intent to sale or distribute, they will more than likely be subjected to felony charges. The penalties are as follows:  

  • Less than one ounce can result in up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.  
  • More than one ounce can result in a prison sentence of up to seven years and a fine of up to $100,000.  
  • Five pounds or more can result in up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $300,000.  

If it is believed that a person planned to sell or distribute the marijuana in question, the prosecutor will use evidence provided by law enforcement agencies. Any evidence such as marijuana paraphernalia, large amounts of cash, scales and other items commonly used by drug dealers can be used against the accused person.  

Hire a New Hampshire Marijuana Possession Attorney Today

If you or someone you care about has been charged with marijuana possession, you will need to hire a New Hampshire marijuana possession lawyer to defend your rights in court.  

Drug charges can be terrifying, and if you are convicted, your entire life can be turned upside-down. Contact our law firm today to learn more about our legal services.