On July 25, New Jersey’s Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal halted all municipal prosecutions of marijuana cases until at least Sept. 4. He will examine the decriminalization of the drug in the meantime. Grewal sent a memo to county and municipal prosecutors that announced he will issue a directive by the end of next month. At that time, it will be decided if the prosecutions will continue or be postponed again. By decriminalizing marijuana, it will end criminal penalties for possessions of small amounts.
Grewal’s action came after Jersey City’s Chief Municipal Prosecutor Jacob Hudnut sent a memo to his municipal prosecutors last week ordering the decriminalization of marijuana cases in the city. Hudnut mentioned social justice in his memo, stating that more minorities are prosecuted for marijuana possession than whites.
In New Jersey, people may face jail time or large fines if they are charged with possession of marijuana. Although it is labeled as a Schedule I drug, in the most dangerous drug listing, the consequences have been downgraded over time. Schedule I drugs are described as being highly addictive. Medical uses of marijuana have been recognized by the state, along with other areas throughout the United States. However, it is still a crime to possess the substance without the regulation of the medical marijuana market and a medical marijuana user card that grants you access.
When someone is charged with possession of marijuana, their consequences depend on the amount they were found in possession of. If you are found in possession of 50 grams, you may face a disorderly person charge. A simple possession charge could lead to fines and possibly jail time up to six months. If you were found in possession with the intent to sell and distribute the drug, you may face even harsher consequences.
An effective attorney can help diminish the consequences you may face due to a marijuana charge. If you are charged with marijuana possession, give us a call to figure out how we can help you. With more people looking into the decriminalization of marijuana, our representation may help you more than you think.
Our firm understands how serious criminal and personal injury cases are. We are prepared to guide you towards a favorable outcome. If you are in need of experienced legal counsel in New Jersey, please contact The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze today for any criminal and personal injury matters.