At the current time marijuana, including medical marijuana, continues to be illegal in Ohio, although it appears that public sentiment supports medical marijuana. A 2014 Quinnipiac University poll showed 8 to 1 support for medical marijuana in Ohio, but polls don’t make law. That being said, the penalties for small amounts of marijuana, also known as cannabis, are relatively small in Ohio.
Here is a quick summary of the penalties for various marijuana offenses:
POSSESSION | |||
| Offense | Penalty | MaximumFine | MaximumJail 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 |
TRAFFICKING & DISTRIBUTION | |||
| Gift of less than 20 grams – 1st offense | Misdemeanor | $150 | 0 |
| Gift of less than 20 grams – 2nd offense | Misdemeanor | $500 | 60 days |
| Less than 200 grams | Felony | $2,500 | 1 year |
| Between 200-1000 grams | Felony | $2,500 | 1.5 years |
| Between 1,000 and 5,000 grams | Felony | $2,500 | 5 years |
| Between 5,000 and 20,000 grams | Felony | $2,500 | 5 years |
| Between 20,000 and 40,000 grams | Felony | $2,500 | 8 years |
| More than 40,000 grams | Felony | $2,500 | 8 years |
Source: Ohio Revised Code
In addition, a drug conviction on any count may earn a driver’s license suspension for anywhere between 6 months and 5 years. Anytime drug crimes are committed within 1000 feet of a school, or by repeat offenders, penalties increase.
Forcing someone to ingest drugs, furnishing drugs to a minor, or causing a minor to commit a felony drug offense are all illegal in Ohio and 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.)
First time offenders will find some leniency in Ohio’s penalties and sentencing. Because the state has decriminalized possession of small amounts for personal use, the penalty amounts to a minor traffic violation. However, if the charge is in connection with a moving violation (operating a vehicle impaired or OVI) penalties can become quite serious and potentially life-changing.
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. If you’re in this situation, you need a skilled, trusted professional. Get the experience that you need and deserve when you hire Michael Probst as your attorney. Contact Michael today for your free consultation, or call now at 614-767-5170.