Legal Guidance for Marijuana-Related Charges in Harrisburg

If you are facing legal issues related to marijuana crimes—such as possession, dealing, growing, or transporting—it is vital to understand that marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I drug under both state and federal laws. In Pennsylvania, possessing even a small amount of marijuana is illegal and can lead to serious consequences, including time in jail, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. A criminal record can negatively affect your ability to get a job or find housing. For anyone arrested for marijuana possession or distribution, it is crucial to get help from a criminal lawyer in Harrisburg.

Traffic attorney Sean Logue has extensive knowledge in defending clients against drug-related misdemeanors and felonies and is dedicated to building a strong defense for you. With significant experience in cases involving illegal substances, our team is ready to fight hard for your rights. Contact Harrisburg DUI attorney for a free consultation by calling 412-387-6901 or by filling out our online form.

Common Marijuana-Related Violations

Attorney Sean Logue skillfully handles various marijuana offenses within Pennsylvania, including:

• Simple possession of marijuana for personal use
• Felony-level marijuana possession
• Cultivating cannabis plants
• Distributing marijuana
• Trafficking marijuana
• Possessing or using drug paraphernalia
• Driving under the influence of marijuana

Please note that this text is not a complete legal guide for dealing with marijuana charges. Anyone accused should immediately consult a skilled Harrisburg DUI attorney.

Updates on Marijuana Regulations in Harrisburg

Harrisburg has implemented several reforms designed to lower the penalties for possessing and using marijuana, which has significantly affected arrest numbers and overall punishments for these offenses.

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

• Individuals found with less than 30 grams of marijuana face a fine of $25.
• Those cited for using marijuana in public can choose between a $100 fine or up to nine hours of community service.
• Charges can be dismissed and expunged by the District Attorney for those who pay the fine or finish their community service. If the fine is not paid or community service is not completed, you may still have to appear in Harrisburg’s Municipal Court.

Being convicted of possessing a small amount of marijuana can result in a 30-day jail sentence, along with fines and court costs. Furthermore, such a conviction triggers an automatic six-month driver’s license suspension by PennDOT, even if you were not driving at the time of the offense. It is wise to speak with a Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer to understand these nuances.

It is crucial to remember that decriminalization is not the same as legalization. State laws in Pennsylvania still criminalize marijuana activities, and the following actions could lead to arrest and prosecution:

• Possessing more than 30 grams of marijuana
• Selling, planning to sell, or distributing marijuana
• Driving under the influence of marijuana (cannabis DUI/DWI)
• Growing cannabis
• Possessing marijuana while on probation
• Committing other marijuana-related crimes for which law enforcement has reasonable grounds to charge you.

Understanding Marijuana Penalties in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania enforces strict laws regarding marijuana, and penalties can increase based on various factors. The legal system considers the amount of marijuana, the circumstances of distribution, whether minors were involved, and if a vehicle was used during the offense. A Harrisburg DUI attorney can help navigate these complex factors.

Impact of Marijuana Convictions

• Possession Penalties: Having more than 30 grams of marijuana can result in up to one year in jail and fines reaching $5,000.
• Intent to Distribute: If you are caught with 30 grams or more and intend to distribute it, this is a felony that can carry a prison sentence of up to five years and fines up to $15,000.
• Driving Under the Influence: Driving while under the influence of marijuana can lead to a six-month jail term and up to $5,000 in fines, with harsher penalties for repeat offenders.
• Cultivation Consequences: Growing even a single marijuana plant is a felony, which can result in a five-year sentence and fines totaling $15,000.

Involvement with marijuana can further damage your legal standing, potentially affecting your probation status and impacting other legal matters, such as child custody disputes in Dauphin County. It is important to note that despite state regulations, marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, and federal authorities continue to enforce these laws.

Legal Representation for Marijuana Charges

If you are facing marijuana-related charges, whether for possession or distribution, obtaining experienced legal counsel is essential. Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer Sean Logue offers dedicated defense strategies designed to protect his clients’ rights. With a strong legal background, Sean Logue has supported many citizens in Harrisburg and is ready to assist with your case.

Our office’s history of success demonstrates our commitment. For a confidential and free consultation on a marijuana-related charge, contact Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer Sean Logue at 412-387-6901 today.