A Guide to Felony Marijuana Possession Laws in Ohio

The Legal Reality of Cannabis Offenses

In the state of Ohio, being caught with a small amount of marijuana generally leads to a misdemeanor charge. However, once the amount of cannabis exceeds specific legal thresholds, the offense is elevated to a felony. Felonies carry significantly harsher penalties than standard misdemeanors and can drastically alter your future.

The Serious Consequences of a Felony Charge

A felony conviction for marijuana possession involves much more than just extended jail time and heavy financial penalties. The consequences can impact multiple areas of your life:

• Lengthy mandatory prison sentences
• Substantial financial fines
• Loss of fundamental civil rights
• Potential for escalated drug trafficking charges

When the volume of marijuana is exceptionally high, prosecutors may add drug trafficking to your list of charges. These trafficking offenses carry their own strict, mandatory prison sentences. If you find yourself facing these overwhelming allegations in Belmont County, seeking guidance from a knowledgeable St. Clairsville criminal lawyer is highly recommended to protect your rights.

Retain Professional Legal Defense in St. Clairsville, OH

The Youngstown Criminal Law Group is dedicated to aggressively defending individuals accused of various marijuana-related crimes, including possession with the intent to distribute, throughout Ohio communities.

Sean Logue, an experienced St. Clairsville OVI attorney, carefully reviews all physical evidence and police procedures to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. His primary goal is to discover opportunities that can get your charges reduced or completely dismissed. Reach out to our team at (330) 791-8104 for a complimentary case evaluation.

Felony Cannabis Charges by Weight

Ohio law categorizes felony marijuana offenses based on the exact amount of the drug involved in the arrest:

• 200g to 999g: Fifth-degree felony;
• 1,000g to 4,999g: Third-degree felony;
• 5,000g to 19,999g: Third-degree felony;
• 20,000g to 39,999g: Second-degree felony;
• 40,000 grams and above: Second-degree felony.

Potential Sentences for Felony Possession in St. Clairsville

The legal punishments for a felony marijuana possession conviction vary based on the degree of the felony:

• Fifth-degree: Up to 12 months in jail and/or a maximum fine of $2,500.
• Third-degree (1,000g – 4,999g): Up to 18 months of incarceration and/or fines reaching $5,000, with a strong possibility of prison time.
• Third-degree (5,000g – 19,999g): Identical penalties to the previous tier, but with a much higher likelihood of serving a prison sentence.
• Second-degree (20,000g – 39,999g): A mandatory prison term spanning five to eight years, plus potential fines up to $15,000.
• Second-degree (40,000g and above): A strictly enforced maximum of eight years in prison, alongside a possible $15,000 fine.

Youngstown Criminal Law Group | Defending Your Future

Have you been arrested for a felony marijuana crime in Ohio? You mustn’t speak with law enforcement officials without a dedicated St. Clairsville criminal lawyer by your side. The Youngstown Criminal Law Group provides swift, effective, and personalized defense strategies.

Sean Logue utilizes his vast legal background to defend clients across Belmont County and neighboring areas. He will personally review the details of your arrest and explain the best legal paths available to you. Call our office at (330) 791-8104 today to schedule your free consultation and start fighting back against your charges.