Marijuana, also known as cannabis, has been a controversial topic in the United States for decades. Many states have legalized its use for medicinal or recreational purposes, but Texas has been slow to follow suit. In fact, marijuana has been illegal in Texas for both medical and recreational use for many years. If you get caught for possessing marijuana in Texas then only a criminal defense lawyer can save you. However, recent developments have indicated that the tides may be turning when it comes to marijuana laws in Texas.

 

What was the previous law that restricted the use of marijuana?

Texas has a long and complicated history with marijuana laws. In the past, possession of even small amounts of marijuana could result in harsh penalties. Before 1973, possession of any amount of marijuana in Texas was punishable by up to life in prison. That year, Texas reduced the penalty for possession of up to two ounces of marijuana to a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a $2,000 fine. In 2015, the Texas government passed the Compassionate Use Act, which allowed for the use of low-THC cannabis oil for certain medical conditions. However, this law only applies to patients with intractable epilepsy, and cannabis oil must contain less than 0.5% THC. Additionally, the law is extremely restrictive and has been criticized for being almost impossible to comply with.

 

What is the current scenario for the marijuana law in Texas?

Currently, marijuana is still illegal in Texas for medical and recreational use. Possession of any amount of marijuana is a criminal offense and can result in jail time and fines. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

 

In 2019, Texas passed House Bill 1325, which legalized the production and sale of hemp and hemp-derived products, including CBD oil. While this law technically legalized CBD oil, it has caused confusion for law enforcement and the public, as hemp and marijuana are both members of the cannabis plant family and can be difficult to distinguish.

 

Additionally, some cities in Texas have passed ordinances that reduce the penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana. For example, in Austin, possession of up to two ounces of marijuana is punishable by a fine of up to $500 rather than jail time. However, this is not the case throughout the state, and having any amount of marijuana outside of Austin can result in arrest and criminal charges.

 

What Are Allowed Usage Of Marijuana In The State?

 

Currently, the only form of marijuana use that is allowed in Texas is the use of low-THC cannabis oil for patients with intractable epilepsy. Even then, the cannabis oil must be prescribed by a qualified physician, and patients must have tried other forms of treatment before being approved for the use of cannabis oil.

 

In addition to the use of low-THC cannabis oil, some cities in Texas have decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana. This means that possession of up to a certain amount of marijuana (usually two ounces or less) may result in a fine rather than arrest and criminal charges.

 

However, it is important to note that even in cities where possession of small amounts of marijuana is decriminalized, it is still illegal under state law. It means that individuals can still be arrested and charged with a criminal offense; if they are caught possessing marijuana outside the city limits or have more than the allowed amount.

 

What Are The Penalties For Having Marijuana Under Texas Law?

 

The penalties for marijuana possession in Bryan, Texas can be severe. Possession of fewer than two ounces of marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor and can result in up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. Possession of between two and four ounces of marijuana is a Class A misdemeanor and can result in up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.

 

Possession of more than four ounces of marijuana is a felony offense, which can result in significant jail time and fines. Additionally, possession of any amount of marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school or other designated drug-free zone can result in increased penalties, such as increased fines and longer jail time. In some cases, the individuals may also face additional charges for possessing drug paraphernalia, such as pipes or rolling papers.

 

It is also important to note that penalties for possession of marijuana can vary depending on the circumstances of the offense. For example, individuals with prior drug convictions may face more severe penalties, and individuals caught with large amounts of marijuana may be charged with intent to distribute, which can result in even harsher penalties.

 

While penalties for marijuana possession in Texas can be severe, there are some potential avenues for avoiding or reducing these penalties. For example, first-time offenders may be eligible for a deferred adjudication, which is a type of probation that can result in charges being dismissed if the individual completes the terms of their probation.

 

Additionally, some individuals may be able to qualify for drug treatment programs or other alternative sentencing options, which can help them avoid jail time and reduce the long-term consequences of a drug conviction.

 

I Am caught with Marijuana. What should I do? How Can Mr. Craig Greaves Help Me In Such Situations?

The current state of marijuana laws in Texas is complicated and can be difficult to navigate. When you are stuck in such a difficult situation, only a criminal defense lawyer in College Station, Texas can rescue you with his expertise. With years of experience in criminal law and minutia in the amendments, Mr. Craig Greaves serve – Brazos County, Bryan, Burleson County, Caldwell, College Station, Davidson, Franklin, Grimes County, Hearne, Madison County, Madisonville, Robertson, and Snook areas. Only an aggressive criminal defense attorney in Texas can fight for you for cannabis possession charges in Bryan, Texas, and rescue you from the offense.