In the past, an arrest for marijuana possession would require the help of an attorney from a criminal defense law firm. However, due to the increasing legislative changes, you have the duty to understand marijuana laws based on where you live. Generally, there are different bills about the legalization and decriminalization of marijuana, and these bills vary from state to state. Still, if you’re a resident of Arizona, you’re in the right place to know about everything there is to know about the marijuana laws of the state.
Marijuana was legalized in Arizona under the voter approval section 207. The statement legalized marijuana by indicating that anyone above the age of twenty-one years can possess or use it for recreational purposes. However, to any confusion regarding usage, below is everything you should know about the Arizona marijuana laws:
If you possessed and used marijuana in Arizona based on 2020 laws, it’s time to understand that significant changes were made in November 2020. These recent changes were passed to legalize marijuana in Arizona for recreational uses. Additionally, the changes also legalized marijuana for medical use. However, the rules decriminalized the use and possession of certain types of marijuana.
The rule also allows you to file a petition for a record of expungement if you were previously convicted for marijuana-based offenses. If you were to file for a petition because you were previously convicted for illegal possession, you had from 12th July of 2021 to start processing your expungement procedures.
As stated earlier, the recent Arizona change in marijuana laws allowed for medical and recreational usage. Therefore, to comprehensively understand these laws, below is a breakdown of each:
These laws were enacted and legalized in 2010. The first proposition was first in 2002 to allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes. However, the proposition did not become law until 2010. Still, even after passing these laws, the selling of marijuana for medical uses did not immediately start in Arizona until December 2012. However, the sale of marijuana for medical help is still only allowed if you’ve got a valid medical identification card indicating you need marijuana for medicinal reasons.
These laws and regulations started working in 2021. According to authorities and studies, they were proposed in early November 2020 by the Arizona Smart and Safe Act. Generally, recreational laws mean you can legally use and possess marijuana, especially if you’re above twenty-one years old. They are also expected to become more effective after the state governor releases their official statement on proclamation scheduled to happen in the spring season of 2021.
While these laws are clearly explained, there are unique meanings you should keep in mind, especially since some, like the recreational ones, are waiting for the governor to make their final statements and more. As such, here’s what you should keep in mind before using and possessing marijuana:
You Are Allowed To Possess A Specified Amount
The standard amount these laws allow you to use and possess is up to an ounce of marijuana or about five grams of the same for recreational needs. However, suppose you’re looking to use marijuana for medical conditions, in that case, you’re allowed to have about two and a half ounces and a medical card indicating you’re eligible to have marijuana for medical reasons.
There Is A Set Standard For The Number Of Plants And People To Grow Marijuana
The laws also stated that you’re allowed to grow only about six cannabis plants, and the number of people allowed to grow it should be one or two per household. Lastly, the same laws will enable you to sell marijuana for recreational uses only starting from March 2021.
Even though the state legalized marijuana, you’re still eligible for penalties and other punishments if you break the laws in the following manner:
You are not allowed to use marijuana for recreational purposes in public areas like recreational gardens and more. You’ll also be fined for using marijuana while driving and operating any other motor vehicle.
If you’re under the legalized age category- unless you’re above twenty-one years, it is considered a crime to possess or use marijuana in Arizona. This means even if someone sends you for recreational or medical uses, you’ll be fined because of breaking the age limit for possessing it.
Lastly, not everyone can sell marijuana unless you’re a licensed vendor. The selling of marijuana is considered a crime without having permission from above. However, most licensed vendors are only allowed to sell it for recreational needs.
Suppose you’re found guilty of violating any of the above regulations, you’ll be charged according to the current ground laws, which can include:
Facing criminal charges with severe penalties- this can happen when you’re found in marijuana-related crimes such as driving under the influence, possessing and using below the legal age, and more.
Unlawful possession and intent to sell- this is also charged differently from other marijuana-related crimes, mainly since the intention to sell it for recreational use and not medicinal. When found guilty of this crime, it can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor based on the amount you’re caught with or the current ground laws. Charges for this kind of crime will risk you jail time which the law will determine, or fines.
In a nutshell, it is paramount to understand these and more marijuana laws in Arizona, significantly to help you avoid falling out with the law. Understanding these laws will help you avoid lifelong consequences such as affecting your employment history and more.
As such, to help you have a crystal clear understanding of the Dos and Don’ts when it comes to marijuana and its laws in Arizona, work with experts like Lane, Hupp, & Crowley. Find them at https://www.lhccriminallawyers.com/.
Lane, Hupp, & Crowley
111 W Monroe St Ste. 1216
Phoenix AZ 85003
(480) 562-3482
Find us on Social Media
https://www.facebook.com/lhcplc/
https://twitter.com/lanehuppcrowley
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-crowley-00227110/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9G7CKtpv_WCGbaM_fU9nzQ
If you have been charged with a DUI, drug charge, sex crime or any serious criminal offense, let an experienced defense team fight for you. Schedule a consultation with one of our partners today. Call (480) 562-3482 or send an email.