The legal landscape of marijuana use changes constantly, and it is not uncommon for people to question, “when is marijuana legal in Florida?” The answer to this inquiry is not straightforward, as whether a person’s use of marijuana is legal depends on numerous factors. As such, it is prudent for anyone recently charged with a marijuana crime or who wants to learn more about the legality of using marijuana in Florida to speak with an attorney. The knowledgeable Bradenton marijuana crime defense attorneys of Hanlon Law have the skills and experience needed to help people obtain favorable outcomes in drug crime cases, and if you are charged with a marijuana offense, we can help you fight to protect your rights. We frequently defend people charged with drug crimes and other offenses in Bradenton and other cities throughout Florida.
When is Marijuana Legal in Florida?
Florida law only permits the medicinal use of marijuana. In other words, it is illegal to use marijuana recreationally. Additionally, there are firm limitations regarding medicinal use. First, only people who have been added to the medical marijuana use registry by a qualified physician can use marijuana for medical purposes. In order to be added to the registry, a person must have a qualifying condition, which includes PTSD, terminal illnesses, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, ALS, and multiple sclerosis, as diagnosed by a licensed doctor.
People added to the medical marijuana use registry are only permitted to use marijuana that they obtain from a medical marijuana treatment center in the amount, form, and daily dosage prescribed by the physician that determined their eligibility for the registry. Lastly, they cannot smoke marijuana in an enclosed workplace or use marijuana other than low-THC cannabis not in a form for smoking in any public place or on public transportation. They also cannot use it at work unless they have permission from their employer, in state correctional institutions, on school grounds, or in school vehicles.
Marijuana-Related Criminal Charges in Florida
Under Florida law, it is unlawful to possess, sell, or deliver marijuana for recreational purposes. Additionally, people on the medical marijuana use registry can face criminal charges if they violate the provisions regarding how and when they can use marijuana.
Marijuana-related charges range from misdemeanors to felonies; the severity of the charge imposed depends on the amount of marijuana in question and other factors. The sale or possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana is a misdemeanor, and people convicted of such offenses may be sentenced to up to a year in prison and fined up to $1,000.
Selling or possessing any amount from 20 grams to 25 pounds is a felony, however, and carries penalties of up to five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. Possessing or selling from 25 to 2,000 pounds is a felony that could result in imprisonment for three to fifteen years and fines of up to $25,000. People can also be charged with misdemeanor crimes for possessing marijuana paraphernalia, like pipes and rolling papers, and may face up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $1,000. It is also a felony to sell, manufacture, or possess hash or concentrates, punishable by up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines.
Meet with a Proficient Bradenton Criminal Defense Attorney
It can be difficult to keep abreast of where and how people can lawfully use marijuana, but all too often, people investigate “when is marijuana legal in Florida?” after they have already been charged with violating the law. If you are accused of the illegal possession, sale, or delivery of marijuana, it is critical to meet with an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options. The proficient Bradenton marijuana crime defense attorneys of Hanlon Law are familiar with what it takes to achieve successful results in criminal cases, and if we represent you, we will advocate aggressively on your behalf. We have an office in Bradenton and additional offices in Tampa, Clearwater, Sarasota, and St. Petersburg. You can contact us through our form online or by calling us at 941.253.0254 to set up a confidential and free conference.
