Medical Marijuana Defense Lawyer in Lansing

Attitudes towards marijuana and medical marijuana are rapidly changing in Lansing, as they are nationwide. In 2011, a Gallup poll reported that half of all Americans were in favor of legalizing marijuana for the first time, and since then, support for marijuana legalization has only increased, especially when it comes to medical marijuana. In 2014, CBS reported that 51 percent of Americans were in favor of legalizing marijuana for medical use. It was the first time since CBS began asking that question that more people were in favor of legalization than keeping it illegal.

Michigan lawmakers have responded to these changing ideals and passed new laws regarding the use and sale of marijuana for medical purposes, but it is unclear how the law will change in the future. The drug crimes attorneys at Grabel & Associates have been keeping up to date on the laws in Michigan, and they are ready to defend medical marijuana users who are legally allowed to possess the drug from drug possession and distribution charges.

Right to Possess Medical Marijuana

Up until recently, using marijuana for medical purposes was illegal, as was possessing and selling it. Once the research fully proved the medicinal uses of marijuana, Michigan lawmakers decided to change the laws to keep up with the changing times.

In 2008, Michigan passed the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act (MMMA) to regulate the use and sale of medical marijuana. Under the law, users have legal protection, and a system of registry identification cards for qualifying patients and primary caregivers was created. Users and caregivers would have to pay a fee for a registry application as well as renewal. The MMMA also outlined a list of rules to regulate the system and provided for the administration and enforcement of the act. It also noted affirmative defenses as well as penalties for any violations of the act.

In order for Lansing citizens to be able to take advantage of the law, they must first register with the state. The law allows both patients and primary caregivers to obtain registration identification cards which will give them the right to possess no more than 2.5 ounces of marijuana at a time. Patients may also grow up to 12 marijuana plants in a closed and locked facility.

Primary caregivers are treated a little differently because they can be caregivers for more than one person. They are also allowed to carry 2.5 ounces of marijuana per patient, and they may grow up to 12 plants per patient. Again, the plants must be kept in a closed and locked facility. If stopped by any law enforcement, primary caregivers must supply not only their registration cards, but also a photo ID, such as a driver's license.

The law also protects the users and primary caregivers from any backlash at work or with their children. Employers must allow their employees to use medical marijuana and cannot fire them for doing so. Of course, you cannot smoke at your desk, but your employer cannot fire you if you smoke in the privacy of your own home.

Children are not considered to be in danger if living with a parent or guardian who uses medical marijuana, so long as the user complies with the rules and regulations outlined in the act. For further clarification on this or other points regarding MMMA, speak with an associate at Grabel & Associates.

Limitations for Medical Marijuana Use

While MMMA does allow registered users to possess medical marijuana, there are some limitations. For example, you may not possess marijuana or otherwise use it:

• On a school bus
• On the grounds of a preschool, primary, or secondary education institution
• In a correctional facility within the state

Additionally, you cannot smoke medical marijuana:

• In any public place
• On any form of public transportation

The law also says that medical marijuana users cannot operate or navigate, or be in actual physical control of any motor vehicle, aircraft, or motorboat while under the influence of medical marijuana.

Of course, it is illegal to falsify records in order to obtain medical marijuana, and any fraudulent representation to avoid arrest or prosecution is punishable by a $500 fine.

Clearly, this law is not always easy to understand. With multiple sections and detailed subsections, the MMMA may be difficult for many to fully read. Grabel & Associates is working hard to make sure this act is followed to the letter of the law and that law abiding citizens do not find themselves facing drug possession or distribution charges. If you have legally obtained medical marijuana, do not let police officers or prosecutors try to scare you with talks of jail time and high fines. Contact Grabel & Associates and stand up for your rights.

Contact Grabel & Associates

More and more states are beginning to recognize the value of marijuana for medical purposes. Lansing residents now have the option of using marijuana for medical reasons.

If you have questions, comments, or concerns about the legalities of using medical marijuana and are facing a possible possession or distribution charge, contact the attorneys at Grabel & Associates. Our lawyers are well versed in the laws and regulations, and they can help you defend your right to use marijuana for medical reasons. Call us toll-free at 1-800-342-7896 or contact us through our website.

Do not wait until charges have been filed. Speak with an associate at Grabel & Associates today.