New Jersey Governor Delays Implementing Medical Marijuana Law
Governor Chris Christie reportedly is not planning on allowing medical marijuana to be sold in New Jersey until after the federal government takes marijuana off its list of controlled substances. According to NJ.com, the governor was on television June 16, 2011, to discuss his reasoning for continuing to delay legalizing medical marijuana. Federal law continues to make marijuana possession illegal, but 16 states, including New Jersey, have passed medical marijuana laws. Christie's point clearly resonates with those worried that more people will be wrongfully arrested for marijuana possession once the law goes through.
Under current New Jersey law, possession of 50 grams or less of marijuana is a disorderly persons offense. The penalties for marijuana possession in New Jersey could include fines and up to six months in county jail. Every case is different and all drug charges must be taken seriously. Some politicians, such as Assemblyman Reed Gusciora, want to adopt new laws which decriminalize simple possession of marijuana altogether.
Marijuana laws in New Jersey are currently in flux. It is perfectly understandable for someone to be wrongfully charged with marijuana possession without a complete understanding of the law. The discrepancy between state and federal laws can get confusing and complicated. You should not have to face serious consequences due to someone else's misinterpretation or misunderstanding of the law.
The reputed Princeton marijuana possession defense attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to have drug charges reduced and thrown out. We work with the prosecution to get your charges lessened or completely dismissed. For more information, please call our law offices at 609-240-0040 to schedule your free consultation.
