Marijuana Possession Defense Attorney in Denver, Colorado
Myth: Denver passed a law decriminalizing possession of small amounts of marijuana. I cannot get arrested or fined if I am carrying a little bit of pot.
Reality: Although Denver did pass such a law, Denver city prosecutors have the power to enforce Colorado state law.
Myth: I just have to pay a fine if I am cited for possession of marijuana. There are no other negative consequences.
Reality: Even though you may get “cited and released” it is still considered a drug conviction and will go on your criminal record.
Philip M. Smith, Attorney At Law • Denver, Colorado
Marijuana • Paraphernalia • Possession
(303) 333-8900 • Email FREE CONSULTATION
Do not assume that your best course of action is to pay the fine and move on with your life. Depending on the circumstances, your may want to fight the marijuana possession citation. If you decide to fight and are seeking an experienced drug charge defense lawyer to serve as your advocate, I encourage you to contact my office for a free initial consultation.
In the State of Colorado a person having:
- Possession of 2 ounces or less of marijuana is a Class 2 Petty Offense carrying a fine of not less than $100.
- If a person openly displays or consumes 2 ounces or less of marijuana commits a Class 2 Petty offense carrying a fine of $100 and a jail sentence of 15 days in the county jail.
- Possession, public display or use of more than two ounces and less than six ounces of marijuana or any amount or marijuana concentrate is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
- Possession of more than 6 ounces of marijuana and less than 12 ounces or three ounces or less of concentrate is a Class 1 Misdemeanor.
- Possession of more than twelve ounces of marijuana or more than three ounces of marijuana concentrate is a Class 6 Felony.
Penalties of Marijuana Paraphernalia Possession
- Possession of drug paraphernalia is a Class 2 Petty Offense with a fine of less than $100 dollars.
Defense and How I Can Help YOU
First, DO NOT discuss your case with ANYONE except your attorney. Any statements made to law enforcement may be used against you. Family, friends or coworkers may be called as witnesses. Second, you need vigorous legal representation when facing these serious criminal allegations. Even a petty offense will show on your criminal history and getting a new job will be difficult.I have successfully handled thousands of crimes including marijuana and paraphernalia possession during my legal career.
Philip M. Smith has over 35 years of legal experience
as a judge, district attorney, and a private criminal defense attorney
practicing in all areas of criminal law.
As with all criminal charges it is critical to obtain as much information about the incident as quickly as possible. The sooner I can get started the faster I can achieve the best resolution for you.
Although courts and prosecutors are often more lenient with first time offenders, no two cases are alike. My approach to your defense would be first to consider if this is a first time offense and if so:
- Was there probable cause for a search of your car or home?
- Was this search legal?
- How much or how many marijuana plants were discovered by law enforcement?
- Was this in a medical or non medical grow house?
- Where scales, paraphernalia pipes, bongs or other equipment found during the search?
- Children present or living in the home?
- Prior convictions?
My job as your criminal lawyer is to provide you with the best possible defense based on my strong negotiating skills and knowledge of the criminal court system. I will examine how best to approach your facts, police reports and the prosecutors file and tailor an individual strategy for achieving your goal.
Consequences of Marijuana and Drug Convictions
Some drug convictions may be eligible for Sealing after a period of time.; These charges will be available to law enforcement, military, government agencies and the public. Landlords and employers will not risk their property or the property of their tenants and employees by renting or hiring a person who they see as a threat because of your charge or conviction. It is important to fully explore the facts and law before pleading guilty to a drug charge or going to trial on such a serious charge. I want to help you get the best resolution to your case by working to have the charges dismissed, obtain a deferred judgment or possibly Diversion. Some cases may be eligible for Drug Court.
Contact My Law Office
Philip M. Smith, Denver Marijuana Lawyer, 303-333-8900. If you need a criminal defense lawyer to fight a marijuana, paraphernalia or drug charge, or if you have questions about drug charges, I encourage you to contact me, call today for a free and confidential initial consultation.
