Texas maintains strict laws when it comes to marijuana. The unauthorized possession of even the smallest amount of cannabis can have serious consequences.
Incarceration and fines
While CBD oil for medicinal purposes is now legal under specific circumstances, possession of any other marijuana is heavily penalized. The strict consequences for possession of marijuana vary depending on the amount:
- 2 ounces or less — Class B misdemeanor charges with a sentence up to 180 days of jail time and/or a maximum fine of $2,000.
- 2-4 ounces — Class A misdemeanor charges with a sentence up to one year of jail time and/or a maximum fine of $4,000.
- 4-5 ounces — State jail felony charges with a sentence between 180 days and two years of jail time and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.
- 5-50 pounds — Third degree felony charges with a sentence between two and 10 years of jail time and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.
- 50-2,000 pounds — Second degree felony charges with a sentence between two and 20 years of jail time and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.
- More than 2,000 pounds — Life sentence in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice institution or five to 99 years of jail time and/or a maximum fine of $50,000.
Drug court
Since 2001, Texas established drug courts to rehabilitate offenders with drug-related charges rather than send then to prison. Attending drug court is an available option for non-violent offenders and people with a minimal history of offenses. A judge will assess an offender and determine whether they are eligible to attend.
Drug court consists of treatment programs, weekly supervision and frequent drug testing to help rehabilitate offenders. If you attend drug court, you may also have to pay fines and carry out community service.
Don’t let a possession charge stop you from giving up hope. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand the charges you are facing.
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