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Marijuana Charges

Offenses related to marijuana, such as possession, growing, or trafficking, can lead to severe legal consequences. The severity of the charges is usually determined based on the amount of marijuana involved. Felony charges can result from certain marijuana offenses, carrying significant penalties such as prison time, expensive fines, and mandatory drug treatment programs. Given the harsh nature of these penalties, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a drug crimes defense attorney as soon as possible. If you are facing marijuana charges in Kissimmee FL, don't hesitate to contact Hanlon Law's criminal defense attorneys. We have extensive experience in defending our clients against these charges and will use all available resources to achieve the best possible outcome for you.


Possession of Marijuana Charges 


According to Florida Statute 893, possessing marijuana is a criminal offense with varying penalties based on the amount of marijuana involved. Possessing 20 grams or less of marijuana is considered a first-degree misdemeanor and can result in up to 1 year of jail time and a fine up to $1,000. On the other hand, possession or purchase of more than 20 grams of marijuana is considered a third-degree felony, punishable by a minimum of 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.


Marijuana Trafficking Charges


Florida law, under Statute 893.135, defines marijuana trafficking as knowingly engaging in the sale, purchase, or manufacture of more than 25 pounds of marijuana or possessing 300 or more cannabis plants. This offense is considered a first-degree felony, with the severity of the consequences being determined by the amount of marijuana involved.


  • 25 to 2,000 pounds or 300 to 2,000 cannabis plants have a mandatory minimum sentence of 3 years in prison with a fine of $25,000. 
  • 2,000 to 10,000 pounds or 2,000 to 10,000 cannabis plants have a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years in prison and a fine of $50,000. 
  • 10,000 pounds or more or 10,000 cannabis plants or more has a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of $200,000. 


It's crucial to keep in mind that bringing any quantity of marijuana from outside Florida into the state is illegal, even if the amount is below the minimum threshold for trafficking as defined by the Statute. This offense is charged as a third-degree felony, carrying a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $5,000.


Sale and Manufacturing of Marijuana Charges 


In Florida, it is also illegal to sell or manufacture marijuana, possess it with the intent to do so, or knowingly maintain a property where these activities take place. Penalties for these offenses will depend on the amount of marijuana involved and whether the crime was committed in a prohibited area, such as near a school or church. If convicted, the manufacture and sale of marijuana is considered a third-degree felony that carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. However, if the crime occurs within 1,000 feet of a school, public recreation area, place of worship, public housing facility, or assisted living facility, it is charged as a second-degree felony, which carries a 15-year prison sentence and up to $10,000 in fines.


Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 


Florida Statute 893.147 criminalizes the use, possession, manufacturing, delivery, transportation, advertisement, or retail sale of drug paraphernalia. The penalties for violating this statute depend on the intended use of the paraphernalia:


  • Possession and use is a first-degree misdemeanor that is punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. 
  • Manufacturing or selling drug paraphernalia is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. 
  • Transporting paraphernalia is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. 
  • Advertising is a first-degree misdemeanor that is punishable by up to 1 year in prison and a fine of up to $1,000. 
  • Delivering drug paraphernalia to a minor is punishable by up to 15 years in person and a fine of up to $15,000. 


Protect Your Freedom with an Kissimmee Area Drug Crimes Attorney 


If you are convicted of a marijuana-related offense, you could face severe penalties, including a lengthy prison sentence, steep fines, license suspension, community service, and a criminal record that could hinder your future employment prospects. Hiring a skilled defense attorney who specializes in marijuana charges is essential to increasing your chances of avoiding a conviction. At Hanlon Law, our attorneys are dedicated to building a solid defense strategy and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case.


If you have been charged with a marijuana-related offense in Kissimmee, Florida, don't hesitate to contact the Kissimmee criminal defense attorneys Hanlon Law today.

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