Utah Criminal Defense Attorney Blog
Utah Legislature Declines to Vote on Medical Marijuana Bill
Posted by Utah Criminal Lawyer Stephen
Howard - March 11, 2016
After
much debate within the legislature, demonstrations by citizens on both
sides, pleas from patients who believe that medical marijuana will ease
their suffering, and worries from others that the legalization of
marijuana would create a variety of problems, the Utah legislature
yesterday decided to pass on the issue of marijuana legalization. There
is already discussion among supporters on the question of how to raise
the issue again. But for now,
possession
of marijuana remains a criminal offense in Utah.
Criminal Charges for Marijuana Possession in Utah
Currently, under both federal and state law, possession of marijuana
remains illegal in Utah. Although the federal government is choosing
not to prosecute most violations of federal law relating to marijuana
possession in states where marijuana has been legalized for
recreational and/or medical use, a person in Utah who is found to be in
possession
of, using, or
distributing
marijuana can be prosecuted under federal or state law. Most
marijuana charges in Utah are filed in the state court system or in one
of the local
justice
courts found throughout the state.
Marijuana possession charges begin at the class B
misdemeanor
level, punishable by up to six months jail and nearly $2,000 in fines
(including surcharges and fees). Depending on the quantity of marijuana
involved, the proximity to a drug-free zone, and whether distribution
was involved or intended, the level of the offense can potentially be
increased to the
felony
level.
Finding a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Utah

If
you have been charged with marijuana possession or other criminal
charges in Utah, the assistance of an experienced
criminal defense lawyer is
vital. Serving Salt Lake County and the rest of Utah,
criminal attorney Stephen Howard has the
experience
needed to ensure that your rights are protected.
Contact us today to
schedule an initial consultation.

Aggressive is good. Effective is better. The best defense strategy in any given criminal case can require in-depth analysis of the facts and a thorough understanding of applicable statutes, case law, and complex procedural and evidentiary rules. Having an experienced attorney on your side....
Strategy
»

With decades of combined experience, our criminal defense team attorneys have the knowledge, skill, and determination to help you achieve the results you need. Facing criminal prosecution in Utah can have serious consequences. Choosing the best attorney to defend your case may be one of the most important decisions you will ever make....
Experience
»

Jail time, prison time, thousands of dollars in fines, and the lifetime collateral consequences of having a criminal conviction on your record - all of these and more are at stake when you are facing criminal prosecution in Utah. Understanding what is at risk is critical. Even so-called "minor" misdemeanor cases can have serious consequences....
Consequences
»