Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Richland, Ashland & Knox Counties, Ohio

Here at Spaulding & Kitzler we get asked this question so often. We wanted to provide you with up to date information about this topic of marijuana possession.

The consequences of being caught with marijuana can vary widely from one state to another. In Ohio, it is not legal to knowingly or intentionally possess marijuana without authorization from a doctor. The penalty for possessing this contraband is dependent on the amount and the punishment is broken down as follows.

Up to 100 Grams

Lawmakers in Ohio have decriminalized possession of marijuana in small amounts. Possession of fewer than 100 grams of marijuana is not punishable by jail time in the state. Violators can be fined for as much as $150 but the offense is not included on an offender’s criminal record.

100 to 200 Grams

An offense for this level of marijuana possession in Ohio is still a misdemeanor but the penalties are a little more serious. An offender can spend as much as 30 days in jail for getting caught with more than 100 grams of marijuana but less than 200. A fine of $250 can also be assessed.

200 to 1000 Grams

Possession of more than 200 grams in Ohio is a felony offense. Penalties for offenses in this range include a fine of up to $2,500 and five years in a state correctional institution.

20,000 to 40,000 Grams

Penalties for possessing this amount of marijuana include a prison sentence of not less than five and not more than eight years. The fine will range from $7,500 to $15,000.

More than 40,000 Grams

This serious felony carries a minimum prison sentence of eight years. Fines range from $10,000 to $20,000.

Medical Marijuana

It is legal in Ohio to possess marijuana for medical purposes. A person that has been cleared for medical use of marijuana by Ohio or any other state is legally allowed to possess up to 90 days worth of marijuana.

It is important to note that medical marijuana clearance in Ohio does not provide an individual with a defense against charges for driving under the influence of marijuana. This means medical marijuana users who drive after using the substance are subject to the same penalties for driving under the influence as all other residents or visitors to Ohio.

Seek Legal Representation

If you are arrested for possession of marijuana in Ohio, it is important not to try to handle this matter on your own. It is better to put your trust in a criminal defense attorney skilled in these matters. A good attorney may be able to have your charges reduced to a lower offense range and will obtain the best outcome possible for you.

We welcome you to contact us to discuss your personal situation with us at any time, we have been serving Richland and Knox County, Ohio with decades of experience and knowledge on this topic.