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Marijuana, also known as weed, is a touchy subject in many areas of the United States. In some states, it is legalized, and in others, it is banned completely. It’s essential to understand the laws surrounding marijuana in the state you are in to avoid any future legal trouble.
In Florida, recreational marijuana is not legal, meaning that individuals without a valid prescription cannot possess or use marijuana in any form. There have been many ballot measures designed to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida, but so far, all of them have failed.
Recreational marijuana is still federally illegal as well, as marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug. However, 23 states in the U.S. have legalized marijuana for recreational use.
Because marijuana is such a gray area in the United States, being charged with a marijuana-related crime might seem like something you can handle on your own. However, drug crimes have the potential to impact your life in many ways, carrying penalties like jail time, fines, and other consequences. If you are in legal trouble, hiring a team of experienced criminal defense attorneys is the best way to protect yourself. For more information, call our office at 407-934-0324.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Florida?
Medical marijuana is legal in Florida, meaning if you have a valid medical marijuana card, you can purchase and use marijuana. You must obtain a Medical Marijuana Use Authorization, which you can apply for online. You must continually update this card and renew it before it expires to purchase and use marijuana.
You must be diagnosed with a medical condition that could benefit from marijuana use by a qualified physician. You can then apply for an ID card online by showing your proof of Florida residency. If you cannot apply yourself, your caregiver can apply for you.
Will Recreational Marijuana be on the Florida Ballot?
Recreational marijuana will be on the Florida ballot in November of 2024. The ballot seeks to legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 years or older. All Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers would be allowed to sell marijuana to adults even without a medical marijuana card.
While the ballot aims to legalize marijuana for recreational use, it does not affect the Drug-Free Workplace Act of Florida or give any immunity to federal laws. On-site use of marijuana in detention facilities, educational facilities, public places, and places of employment would still be illegal if the ballot passes. Similarly, operating any vehicle while under the influence of marijuana would still be unlawful.
What Are Florida’s Current Marijuana Laws?
Medical marijuana is legal in Florida. However, possessing over a certain amount or selling marijuana products without a license is still illegal.
Below are the details about the marijuana laws in Florida:
Florida Possession Laws
Possessing 20 grams or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor charge that could lead to a $1,000 fine and one year in jail. Possessing more than 20 grams of marijuana is a felony and could lead to a $5,000 fine and five years in jail. If possession happens near a school, college, or park, the charge is automatically upgraded to a felony with penalties of a three-year jail term and a fine of up to $10,000.
Florida Sale Laws
Selling 20 grams or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor that could lead to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Selling more than 20 grams is a felony that could lead to $200,000 in fines and up to 30 years in jail. Only Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers can sell marijuana to individuals with medical marijuana cards.
Can an Attorney Help Me With a Marijuana-Related Criminal Case?
Marijuana laws are confusing, as they change often and vary widely from state to state. If you have been charged with a marijuana-related crime, the best way to reduce or remove the penalties you are facing is by hiring a team of Orlando drug crime attorneys. At Alain Rivas & Associates, P.A., we can help you by creating a legal defense strategy to present to prosecutors or before a judge. Protect your freedom by calling us today at 407-934-0324.