What to Do If You Are Facing Marijuana Possession Charges in Seattle

Ensure that your rights are protected when facing drug possession charges in WA.

Illegal drugs and narcotics are known as controlled substances. Possessing controlled substances is considered a crime under state and federal laws. Being charged with drug possession can be a nerve-wracking experience, whether or not it’s your first time being arrested. Although drug possession seems like a minor offense, being convicted can have major consequences.

What Is Drug Possession?

Drug possession occurs when a person owns or otherwise possesses a drug or illegal substance. Drug possession charges usually apply when a person is caught carrying marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, or some other illegal substance. Even legally available prescription drugs qualify as controlled substances if the person possessing the medication doesn’t have a proper prescription. If you are charged with the possession of any drug other than marijuana, you will face a felony charge, no matter how much of the substance you have.

In Washington State, most marijuana possession cases are no longer criminal matters. Washington State is one of only two states in the country that has legalized recreational marijuana use. However, this doesn’t mean that marijuana use is an unrestricted activity – you could still be arrested for marijuana possession. Possessing more than one ounce of marijuana, possessing marijuana if you are under the age of 21, selling marijuana, growing marijuana, and smoking marijuana in public are all illegal activities.

The consequences you’ll face for being charged with marijuana possession vary depending on the amount of marijuana you are caught with. If you are caught with more than one ounce but less than 40 grams of marijuana, you will face charges of up to 90 days in jail and fines of $1000. If you are caught with more than 40 grams of marijuana, it is considered a Class C felony and you will face up to five years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

The consequences of being charged for marijuana possession with the intent to distribute are more severe, even if you are caught with just a small quantity of marijuana. The charges are typically based on packaging or other factors that suggest that you had the intention to sell. If you are charged with marijuana possession with the intent to distribute, it is a Class C felony and you will face up to five years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. The maximum fines and jail time for marijuana offenses double for second and subsequent offenses.

Alternative Sentencing for Marijuana Possession Charges

Marijuana is considered a less serious substance than other drugs, so you may qualify for alternative sentencing. In Washington State, there are many alternatives to prison time, especially if you are a first-time offender. One of the most common alternatives to prison time is probation, which allows you to serve your sentence under the supervision of a probation officer.

Diversion is another alternative to prison time that allows you to complete a term of supervision while you are in the community. The charges against you may be dropped completely if you successfully complete the term of supervision. There is also a first-time offender waiver that may allow you to complete drug treatment and community service instead of spending time in prison.

Protect Your Rights in a Marijuana Possession Case

The drug possession lawyers at Baker, Lewis, Schwisow & Laws, PLLC vigorously defend the rights of individuals facing drug possession charges in Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland. Contact us today to get a free case review!