Utah Marijuana Possession Laws
When it comes to marijuana possession in Utah, very small acts can result in huge consequences. If even a speck of marijuana is found in your possession or in your vehicle, the starting point is a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1000 fine. This type of charge goes for all marijuana possession cases where the amount of marijuana found is less than an ounce. As the amount of marijuana found goes up, so do the penalties. Furthermore, in Utah, it is illegal to drive with even a metabolite of marijuana remaining in your body, and marijuana metabolites have been found to remain in a person for as long as a week after use.
Penalties And Consequences
In Utah, if you are convicted of any form of marijuana possession your driver’s license is automatically suspended for six months without judicial recourse. Meaning no matter what the licenses will be suspended, you can’t work out a deal with the prosecutor, the judge can’t make a decision on it, it is final, a conviction equals suspension. Furthermore, a drug conviction on a person’s record can result in negative consequences for years. Whether it is a backgrounds check for a possible future employer or an apartment manager, a drug conviction will most likely keep you from qualifying and could seriously affect your future living. These consequences mentioned above are serious in nature and could have a negative impact on your freedoms, but they are only the penalties for the lowest level of marijuana possession, that of one ounce or less. As the amount of marijuana increases, the offense increases; over 100 pounds is a second-degree felony; between 100 and 1 pound is a third-degree felony; and between one pound and one ounce is a class A misdemeanor.
Your Utah Marijuana Defense
In Utah, there are no mandatory minimum sentences for a marijuana misdemeanor, which means that with the proper help, you could possibly have your charges significantly reduced. Whether you have been charged with or already convicted of marijuana possession, the attorneys at Salcido Law Firm can help. We’ve dealt with all levels of marijuana offenses, and we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights or restore your freedoms. Call 435-922-3277 or email us today to set up a free consultation.