What Are Minnesota’s Current Marijuana Laws And Penalties?
On August 1, 2023, recreational marijuana use became legal in Minnesota. However, you could still incur serious penalties for misusing it.
At Bird, Stevens & Borgen, P.C., we can provide the guidance you need when it comes to marijuana use and your rights. As a trial-tested criminal defense law firm, we understand Minnesota drug laws inside and out. For more than 30 years, our criminal law attorneys have represented clients in a variety of cases involving cannabis and other controlled substances – we can provide the knowledge and defense counsel that you need.
The New Law: What To Know
House File 100 (HF100) makes it legal to possess and grow up to eight marijuana plants in your home if you are a private citizen. You can also possess:
- Up to two ounces of cannabis flower
- Up to eight grams of cannabis concentrate
- Edible products with up to 800 milligrams of THC
However, it remains illegal to sell marijuana for at least a year, as the state plans to issue regulations for dispensaries, growers and other commercial cannabis enterprises. You still cannot transport cannabis over state lines or drive under the influence of marijuana. It remains against the law for juveniles to use cannabis.
What Are The Possible Sentences?
You can turn to our criminal defense lawyers to learn more about the consequences attached to various charges. These are the potential sentences for unlawful possession under the new law:
- More than two ounces, less than four ounces: A fine of $300
- Up to one pound: A fine of $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail
- One to two pounds: A fine of $3,000 and up to one year in jail
- Up to 10 kilograms: A fine of $10,000 and up to five years in jail
If convicted of driving while under the influence (DWI), you may receive a fine of $1,000 or more, suspension of your license, mandatory drug treatment and even jail time. Juveniles caught with marijuana face a petty misdemeanor which may result in detention of up to one year.
Learn More About Your Rights From A Cannabis Defense Lawyer
Whether you face criminal charges or you want to learn more about your rights under HF100, Bird, Stevens & Borgen, P.C., can help you. Schedule a consultation with a marijuana defense lawyer today by calling our office at 507-218-2392 or by using our online contact form. We proudly help clients throughout the Rochester and Bloomington areas.