By Jeff Kennedy
Attitudes toward marijuana use have changed greatly over the years, with many states decriminalizing the use of marijuana for medicinal reasons and even for recreational use in some states. Texas does not take such a casual view of marijuana use, or at least not yet.
Although changes in Texas regarding the criminality of marijuana use may change in the near future, you can still get into serious trouble for using marijuana today. Many people who use marijuana don’t realize how serious a marijuana charge in Texas can be. Even a small amount of marijuana found in your possession can result in serious legal consequences for you.
Let’s examine the penalties for marijuana possession in Texas.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Texas
Someday soon it’s believed that Texas will soften its tough stance on marijuana possession, but until that day, here are the penalties you could face if convicted of possession of marijuana.
- Possession of less than two ounces of marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor in Texas. You could face confinement in jail up to 180 days and be fined up to $2,000.
- Possession of between two and four ounces of marijuana is a Class A misdemeanor in Texas. You could face confinement in jail up to one year and be fined up to $4,000.
- Possession of marijuana between four ounces and five pounds is a state jail felony. You could face confinement in state jail up to two years and be fined up to $10,000.
- Possession of marijuana over five pounds is a felony, with the degree of felony increasing in severity in correlation with the amount of marijuana you’re found in possession of. You could face imprisonment and be fined up to $10,000.
Other Negative Consequences of a Texas Marijuana Possession Conviction
In addition to the serious legal consequences of a conviction, you could also suffer other life consequences. For example, a drug crime on your criminal record could result in difficulty securing employment. You could get fired from your current job. You could suffer embarrassment and humiliation. Your family life could suffer.
Your financial stability could be impacted by the large fines and other related costs you might be expected to pay. You could even lose some of your legal rights.
Make no mistake, marijuana possession is still a serious offense in Texas. If you’ve been charged with possession of marijuana, you might want to consider talking with a drug possession lawyer.
Contact a Marijuana Possession Lawyer in Texas
Many people who are charged with a marijuana crime have no idea how serious the offense is before they are charged. That lack of knowledge won’t save you from the negative consequences you could face if convicted.
There are defenses against conviction of marijuana possession crimes. A lawyer can examine your case and build the defense that could help keep you out of jail and keep a conviction off your record. Call The Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy at 817-605-1010 or send in the internet contact form below to reach an attorney.
