Being caught in possession of marijuana as a college student can carry life long consequences that you may not be prepared for or want to face at this point in your journey. Though Ohio law on the matter of possession of small amounts of marijuana is relatively lenient, consequences quickly escalate. In addition, as a college student the school will become involved and you could face the loss of financial aid, scholarships, and on-campus housing, depending on the school’s rules. If you think that pleading guilty is the easiest way to put this behind you that is probably one of the worst moves you could make. You need to consider that a drug conviction on any count will earn a driver’s license suspension for anywhere between six months and five years.
According to Ohio law a first-time conviction for pot possession carries no potential for jail time, only a $150 maximum fine, and is classified as not much more than a traffic violation. But a conviction of even a misdemeanor means you will have a criminal record that will follow you the rest of your life. Future employers, landlords, and car salesmen will get to glimpse at this piece of your past and cast a judgment about you as a result.
This chart gives you an idea of how quickly marijuana possession does become a “big deal.” Possession of anything in excess of 200 grams can be charged as a felony with stiff prison sentences and accompanying fines.
| POSSESSION | |||
| Offense | Penalty | Maximum Fine | Maximum Jail Time |
| Less than 100 grams | Misdemeanor | $150 | 0 |
| Between 100 and 200 grams | Misdemeanor | $250 | 30 days |
| Between 200 and 1,000 grams | Felony | $2,500 | 1 year |
| Between 1,000 and 5,000 grams | Felony | $10,000 | 5 years |
| Between 5,000 and 20,000 grams | Felony | $10,000 | 5 years |
| Between 20,000 and 40,000 grams | Felony | $15,000 | 8 years |
| More than 40,000 grams | Felony | $15,000 | 8 years |
Ohio law provides separate penalties for possession, sales, distribution or trafficking, and possession or sale of paraphernalia. If drug crimes are committed within 1000 feet of a school, or by repeat offenders, penalties increase. Ohio Revised Code also forbids forcing someone to ingest drugs, furnishing drugs to a minor, or causing a minor to commit a felony drug offense. All are illegal in Ohio and are called “corrupting another with drugs.” These crimes are punishable with a fine of $2,500 or more, and between six and 18 months in jail. (Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2925.02.)
Facing Marijuana Charges in Columbus, Ohio?
If you’re facing prosecution for marijuana related charges, it is to your advantage to get the skilled, trusted legal representation Probst Law Office offers. Don’t let a poor momentary choice shape and ruin your life. There are many variables that come into play when you’re facing marijuana-related charges. Circumstances can quickly spiral out of control if you don’t have proper legal representation. The skilled, trusted legal representation at Probst Law Office offers the help you need to be sure you have the representation you deserve. Get the experience, skill and knowledge you need when you hire Michael Probst as your attorney. Contact Michael today for your free consultation, or call now at 614-656-4508.