WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION?
Felony possession involves an amount of marijuana over 40 grams which can involve jail or prison time. Misdemeanor possession involves amounts under 40 grams. If convicted of misdemeanor possession of marijuana, the penalty is a maximum 90 days in jail with a $1000 fine. There is a mandatory one day in jail and a mandatory $250 fine. One who is under 21 years of age will lose his or her license and students can lose their federal financial aid. IS THERE A PROVISION FOR MEDICAL MARIJUANA? Under Washington State law (not Federal law) marijuana can be possessed legally if used for a medical purpose and with a valid prescription. This law is technical and has a number of specific requirements (too many to discuss here) governed by RCW 69.51A. It is highly technical and not acknowledged under Federal law. CAN SOMEONE BE CHARGED WITH DRUG POSSESSION IF THAT PERSON DOES NOT KNOW THAT HE OR SHE HAD POSSESSION OF AN ILLEGAL DRUG? Yes! Under Washington law, mere possession is enough. Thus, if yo
