New Jersey’s New Marijuana Law Means Big Changes

New Jersey recently passed a law decriminalizing possession and use of marijuana in certain situations, expunging prior marijuana offenses, and authorizing the cultivation, transport, and sale of marijuana as a business. The new law means big changes for the state, which has previously treated marijuana as an illegal drug.

Mt. Laurel, NJ Drug Crimes Attorney

Highlights of The New Law Include:

• Allowing people over age 21 to have up to 1 ounce of marijuana in their possession.
• Making possession of amounts between 1 ounce and 50 grams a civil offense with a $100 fine.
• Expunging prior offenses immediately.
• Authorizing sale and possession of marijuana paraphernalia, such as pipes.
• Authorizing the cultivation, wholesaling, retailing, transportation and handling of marijuana as a business.
• Creating a Division of Marijuana Enforcement within the Department of Law and Public Safety.
• Allowing possession of many types of marijuana products, including specific amounts of marijuana, infusions in liquid and solid form, concentrates, and immature plants.
• Creating a phased-in tax.
• Allowing local control of marijuana establishments through local ordinances,
• Prohibiting marijuana smoking in any place where tobacco smoking is prohibited, and applying the same fine to both types of smoking.

The new state law will likely create a number of additional uncertainties as it is implemented. It also conflicts with federal law, under which marijuana remains illegal. Because of this, speaking to an experienced criminal defense lawyer regarding questions about marijuana, as well as other drug crimes, and the penalties are essential if you need help.

Call a Gloucester Township, NJ Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer Today to Schedule a Free Consultation

New Jersey criminal defense attorney Michele Finizio can help you understand the charges you face and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Contact the Law Office of Michele Finizio today at 609.230.0374 or via our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation.

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.