Marijuana Possession
Being caught with marijuana is not an unusual experience. It is, however, a crime under Colorado law. Marijauna possession charges can result in a criminal record and even jail time, as well as fines, probation, manadatory drug education programs, and more.
Charged with a crime in Colorado? Please call (800) 927-0644.
Whether you were allegedly caught with a small personal amount or a large bag of marijuana, you are facing a criminal charge. Criminal convictions can haunt you for a long time and we know you don’t want that.
Luckily if this is your first offense, Colorado has many options for you. Also, Colorado is one state that has decriminalized simple possession. This means that if you were holding a small enough amount, you may only be fined.
However, you might be looking at a more severe charge if you were in possession of a sizable amount of marijuana.
Colorado Marijuana Laws
If you are caught with less than one ounce of marijuana, it is a petty offense and carries a fine of $100.
It is important to note that even though this is a petty offense, you are still required to go to court and will be served with a summons. If you fail to appear for this court date your petty offense will be elevated to a misdemeanor charge and you will face up to 6 months in jail and fines of $500.
If you were in possession of more than one ounce, the charge you face depends on how much you were caught with:
| Marijuana Amount | Criminal Charge | Potential Sentence |
| More than 1 oz. and less than 8 oz. | Class 1 misdemeanor | 6- 18 months in jail and fines of $500- $5,000 |
| More than 8 oz. | Class 5 felony | 1-3 years in prison and fines of $1,000- $100,000. |
Ref: CRS 18-18-406
If you are caught using marijuana in public or having it out in the open, you can be sentenced to an additional 15 days in jail.
If this is your second offense or greater you could be facing double the maximum sentence.
If you are charged with more than possession and perhaps were caught in possession with intent to distribute, you face much harsher sentences. For instance, you could be facing 2 to 6 years in prison for being in possession with intent to distribute any amount of marijuana.
Get Help With a Colorado Marijuana Charge
Because the charges and potential penalties for marijuana offenses vary so greatly in Colorado, you need an experienced attorney on your side helping to make sense of the legal mess.
Call us today to discuss your charges and see how we can help. The initial consultation is free.