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Possession and Distribution of Marijuana Charges in Raleigh, NC

Protecting your rights in marijuana drug charge cases

Marijuana possession charges in North Carolina are proportionate to the quantity in possession and whether the defendant was accused of distributing drugs. Hatch, Little & Bunn is an experienced law firm serving clients in Raleigh for more than 50 years. According to the Marijuana Policy Project, 91 percent of all marijuana arrests in North Carolina in 2007 (25,000 people) were for simple possession.

What are North Carolina marijuana possession laws?

North Carolina marijuana laws assign the following penalties for illegal marijuana possession:

  • Class 1 misdemeanor — .05 ounces or less fines up to $200 or 30 days in jail or both
  • Class 3 misdemeanor — .05 ounces to 1.5 ounces fines up to $500 or up to 120 days in jail or both
  • Class 1 felony — more than 1.5 ounces or more up to one year in jail or both
  • Class 1 felony — repeated offense involving more than .05 ounces

Distribution or sale laws

The seriousness of drug crimes varies depending on the activities involved. The authorities consider simple possession of marijuana to be a less serious offense than distribution. Distribution refers to selling, providing or delivering drugs. For marijuana sale or distribution, the penalties are as follows:

  • Class 1 felony for distribution, but not when under 5 grams for no consideration
  • Class H felony sale or distribution of 10 to 50 pounds — fines up to $5,000 and 25 to 30 months in prison
  • Class G felony sale or distribution of 50 to 2,000 pounds — fines up to $25,000 and 35 to 42 months in prison
  • Class F felony which is sale or distribution of 2,000 pounds up to 10,000 — 70 to 84 months in prison, $50,000 fine
  • Class D felony for sale or distribution of over 10,000 pounds — fines up to $200,000 and 175 to 219 months in prison

The difference between distribution and drug trafficking is the quantity of drugs being distributed. Trafficking involves high volume drug distribution and often falls under federal jurisdiction. It also often involves cultivating large numbers of marijuana plants.

In charging drug possession, aggravating factors that make the charges more severe may include bringing marijuana into the country or distribution to minors. Paraphernalia is often a related charge to marijuana possession. Authorities consider paraphernalia items used in smoking, storing, harvesting, processing or selling marijuana.

Rely on an experienced Raleigh law firm

Facing prosecution in the criminal justice system can be intimidating. You want a reliable criminal defense lawyer at your side to protect your rights. You potentially face a loss of liberty, reputation and other repercussions that often ensue such as job loss and financial difficulties. By placing your case in the hands of an experienced law firm, you increase your chances for a favorable outcome. Call 919-670-1411 today, or email us to schedule a consultation and discuss your concerns with one of our attorneys.

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