St. Louis Marijuana Defense Attorneys

Proven Defense for Marijuana Possession Charges in Missouri - (314) 334-3807

While many states across the country have begun decriminalizing the use of marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes, it is still a crime in Missouri to possess, sell or cultivate marijuana, or, possess drug paraphernalia such as a bong, vape pen, or diffuser. If you are facing marijuana charges in Missouri, you need an aggressive defense attorney who can fight to keep these charges off your record.

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we have been immersed in drug crime law for decades, as prosecutors and defense attorneys, and in both state and federal courts. Our insight, integrated with our skills and abilities allows our St. Louis marijuana defense lawyers to pursue the best possible terms for our clients facing a variety of marijuana charges.

Don't take a change when it comes to your future. Contact The Hammer Law Firm today at (314) 334-3807

Marijuana Charges & Penalties in Missouri

Although many marijuana drug crimes are already prosecuted on a lower tier than standard charges for other types of controlled substances, the penalties for distribution, sales, delivery, and cultivation are still severe. As such, anyone facing these allegations should be aware that they are often felonies that pose substantial fines and terms of imprisonment.

Possession of Marijuana

If you've been arrested with marijuana on your person, in your car, or otherwise in your possession, you may be charged with possession of marijuana. Unless you were in possession of over 35 grams of marijuana, you will be facing a misdemeanor offense.

Maximum penalties for possession of marijuana breakdown as follows:

First-time offense, less than 10 grams: no jail time and a $500 fine.
Second offense, less than 10 grams: one year in county jail and a $2,000 fine.
Possession of 10 - 35 grams: one year in county jail and a $2,000 fine.
Possession of 35 grams - 30 kilograms: seven years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Additionally, possession of marijuana drug paraphernalia is a misdemeanor offense that comes with its own penalties:

First offense: no jail time, $500 fine.
Second offense: up to one year in county jail and a $2,000 fine.

Possession with Intent to Distribute

If you've been arrested for marijuana possession, the prosecution may attempt to increase your charges to possession with intent to distribute. The burden is on the prosecution to demonstrate with circumstantial evidence that it was your intent to sell the marijuana in your possession since you were not caught in the act of selling.

Maximum penalties for possession with intent are:

35 grams or less: 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
35 grams to 30 kilograms: 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Sale or Distribution of Marijuana

Selling or delivering marijuana is a felony that comes with harsh penalties, such as:

35 grams or less: up to four years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
35 grams to 30 kilograms: up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

If you are caught selling marijuana to a minor or near a school zone, the penalties increase drastically:

Selling to a minor: up to 15 years in prison and a fine of twice the profit.
Distributing near a school, park, or public housing: up to 30 years in prison and a fine of twice the profit.

Trafficking of Marijuana

If you are arrested for possession of more than 30 kilograms of marijuana or brought in marijuana from out-of-state, you may be charged with marijuana trafficking, which is a felony offense.

The maximum penalties for marijuana trafficking are:

Possessing 30 - 100 kilograms: up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Possessing 100 kilograms or more: up to 15 years in prison and a fine of twice the profit.
Possessing 500 plants or more: up to 15 years in prison and a fine of twice the profit.
Distribute or manufacture 30 - 100 kilograms: up to 15 years in prison and a fine of twice the profit.
Distribute or manufacture 100 kilograms or more: 30 years to life in prison and a fine of twice the profit.

By working closely with you to analyze the specific facts in your case, our St. Louis marijuana lawyers can fight for the best possible terms in order to protect your freedom and future.

Marijuana Penalties Reduced in St. Louis

Marijuana's legacy within the American judicial system is as turbulent and conflicting as anyone could conceive. Although shrouded in a haze of legal grey areas and strong public opinion, marijuana laws throughout the country have more or less been shifting toward leniency and in certain parts of our nation, decriminalization.

In fact, the city of St. Louis approved a measure in early April 2013 that reduces penalties for possessing small amounts of marijuana. Residents of St. Louis who have no prior criminal record, or no drug crime convictions, are now eligible to handle their case as a municipal offense. This means that when a small amount of marijuana is involved, law enforcement officers and prosecutors have the discretion to not pursue criminal charges and only issue fines similar in scope to a traffic ticket, which may cost roughly $100 - $150.

While this new legislative act is limited to the city of St. Louis, it still serves to reflect the shifting tides regarding the ways in which the state of Missouri is now prosecuting marijuana crimes. The legalization of marijuana may be far off, but local residents can take comfort knowing that fairness, leniency, and alternative options are available.

Discuss Your Case with Our Experienced Team

If you or your loved one is facing any type of marijuana charges, please do not allow yourself to believe that new changes to the law will automatically alleviate the penalties you face. Although reassuring, these laws have yet to be fully applied and studied, and there always remains the potential for serious criminal consequences. In order to gain a better understanding of the legislation involved, your specific charges, and your available defense options, we urge you to schedule a free case evaluation as soon as possible.

Regardless of the boisterous noise and opinions surrounding marijuana and the law, you must take reasonable measures to protect your rights and your future. Allow a legal team of former prosecutors to guide you through the legal process toward the results you need. Bring proven St. Louis marijuana defense attorneys to the fight.

Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC today by calling (314) 334-3807.