While medicinal marijuana is legal in Ohio, the state has yet to approve the drug for recreational purposes. That means if you’re found with marijuana, and you don't have a legitimate prescription for it, you could face serious consequences. A criminal attorney can evaluate the circumstances to explain precisely what’s at stake. Generally speaking, though, the penalties will depend on the amount of marijuana that was in your possession. 

Possession of Less Than 100 Grams

Although Ohio has not legalized the use of recreational marijuana, it has decriminalized the possession of relatively small amounts. If you’re found with less than 100 grams on your person or property, you could face minor misdemeanor charges, which carry a fine of $150. Thankfully, a conviction for this kind of misdemeanor will not appear on your criminal record. 

Possession of 100-200 Grams

The possession of between 100 and 200 grams of marijuana is a fourth-degree misdemeanor in Ohio. That means potential penalties include a fine of up to $250 and a jail sentence of up to 30 days. 

Possession of 200-1,000 Grams

Possessing more than 200 grams but less than 1,000 grams is a fifth-degree felony. Because felony convictions carry much more severe penalties—in this case, a fine of up to $2,500 and a jail sentence of up to one year—it’s wise to call a criminal attorney as soon as you learn of the charges. 

Possession of 1,000-20,000 Grams

Possessing between 1,000 and 20,000 grams of marijuana is a third-degree felony in the state of Ohio. As such, penalties include a fine of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence of up to five years.

Possession of 20,000 Grams or More

Possessing between 20,000 and 40,000 grams, on the other hand, is a second-degree felony. Should you be convicted, you might face incarceration for between five and eight years and a fine of up to $15,000. Possessing more than 40,000 grams is also a second-degree felony, but it carries a minimum prison sentence of eight years and a fine of up to $20,000. 

If you’re facing charges for the possession of marijuana, turn to a criminal attorney at Michael A. Newland Esquire in Hamilton, OH. For 30 years, this practice has been defending clients throughout Butler County. His areas of experience include drug crimes, traffic violations, theft offenses, juvenile law, and expungement. To start building your defense with a strategic criminal attorney, reach out on their website or call (513) 887-9595.