Illegal Cultivation of Marijuana
Throughout the United States, marijuana has achieved varying levels of legality. California is one state that has largely legalized the use, distribution, and cultivation of marijuana. However, there are still some restrictions in place. If you cultivate marijuana, you need to understand the laws surrounding its cultivation and what is in store if you violate these laws.When is it Illegal?
It is legal to cultivate marijuana in California, but you need to be aware of the restrictions. Anyone under the age of 21 who grows any amount of marijuana can be charged with a crime. Those over 21 may only cultivate six plants at any given time. These plants must be grown indoors, unless there is a local exception, and they must be kept secured so minors do not have access to them. If any of these criteria are violated, you can be charged with a crime.Consequences of Cultivation
The consequences of cultivating marijuana will differ depending on your situation. As mentioned, anyone under 21 who grows marijuana will face serious consequences. If they are under 18, they will need to perform community service and/or attend drug counseling. Anyone between the ages of 18 and 21 can be fined up to $100. For those over 21, you are most often charged with a misdemeanor if you have more than six marijuana plants. You can spend up to six months in jail and may also be subject to up to $500 in fines. While misdemeanor charges are most common, there are circumstances that warrant a felony charge. These charges are given to previous violators, registered sex offenders, individuals with violent charges on their record, and/or individuals who violate environmental laws through their marijuana cultivation.Benefits of an Attorney
If you have been charged with illegally cultivating marijuana, you will want an experienced attorney on your side. An attorney can help you build your case and include valid defenses for your actions. The Law Office of Bradley R Corbett is well equipped to help you after years of experience and favorable results in the courtroom. Having an attorney on your side will allow you to understand the complexity of your individual case. The laws surrounding drug use, possession, and cultivation are open to interpretation. Your attorney can help you find the interpretation most beneficial to you. Cultivating marijuana is one of the many marijuana related actions that can be difficult to understand. There are many laws and regulations in place despite it being legal to cultivate marijuana. It’s easy to get these laws confused. Having an attorney on your side is worth it. Come in for a consultation with a cultivation attorney today.
Bradley Corbett
Bradley Corbett is a criminal defense attorney in San Diego. He graduated from Brigham Young University in Provo Utah in 2004. Later he enrolled at Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego where he participated in a prestigious internship program with the Los Angeles County Public Defender. Since then he has handled over 2,000 cases.