Everything You Need to Know Now That Marijuana is Legal in New Jersey

New Jersey legalized the use of recreational marijuana. It has taken the state some time to figure out the logistics, including who can sell, and in what cities. As the state approached its first day of legal sales on April 21, 2022, it’s important to know what the new laws cover, and what’s still considered illegal.

What Does “Legal” Marijuana Mean?

The legalization of marijuana means that the recreational purchase and use of marijuana are legal in New Jersey. Anyone over the age of 21 years is permitted to buy up to one ounce of marijuana. 

However, laws only allow you to carry up to six ounces on you at all times. How you use marijuana is up to you, as long it’s for your personal use. You’re legally permitted to smoke, vape, dab, or infuse it into edibles. However, you must do so at home. The use of marijuana isn’t yet legal in public places or on certain properties. 

There has been some confusion as to renters and if they’re allowed to use marijuana while on the property. Currently, there aren’t any laws that would allow landlords to prohibit the use of marijuana on their property since it’s considered legal in New Jersey.

Similar to public intoxication with alcohol, the use of marijuana in public isn’t legal. It’s also not legal to use while in a car, even as a passenger.

Where Can You Buy Marijuana?

While purchasing marijuana is legal in New Jersey, it must be purchased from an approved seller. At this time, there are only 12 approved dispensaries. New Jersey residents can expect this number to increase over the next couple of months, and years. Legal marijuana dispensaries can be found all over the state, including in Maplewood, Phillipsburg, Rochelle Park, and Egg Harbor Township.

It’s also illegal to sell or resell marijuana. Only the approved dispensaries are permitted to sell marijuana legally for the time being. While you can share your marijuana with a friend who is of age, you can’t sell it to them. You also can’t grow your own marijuana. All use of legal marijuana must come from an approved dispensary.

Legalization in New Jersey Doesn’t Apply to the Other States

One of the most important things to keep in mind is that while marijuana may be legal for recreational use in New Jersey, this is not yet the case in nearby states. Traveling with marijuana across state lines, whether that be by car, train, plane, or foot, is still illegal. This could land you in big trouble in that state to which New Jersey’s laws would be no protection against.

Need Legal Help Following a Drug Charge?

While the use of recreational marijuana is finally legal in New Jersey, there are still some situations that are illegal. You could still be charged for having over one ounce in possession or for use in public. If you’re dealing with potential drug charges in New Jersey, it’s important to reach out to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The drug laws are constantly changing, making it difficult to keep up with what you can and can’t do.

Contact an Experienced Medford Drug Defense Attorney About Your Marijuana Drug Crime Charges in New Jersey

Have you been charged with a drug-related offense in New Jersey?  A drug crime conviction can carry with it heavy fines, jail time, and driver’s license suspension!  That is why it is imperative that you speak with a qualified drug defense lawyer about your case. The Law Offices of Michele Finizio represent clients charged with use, possession, production, distribution, and related drug offenses in Medford, Burlington Township, Moorestown, Camden, and throughout New Jersey. Call (609) 230-0374 or fill out our confidential online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office located at 9 E Main St, Moorestown, NJ 08057, in addition to an office located in Cherry Hill, NJ.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.