Civil Marijauna Conviction Consequences

Today, we’re going to talk about the possible consequences that may arise from a conviction for civil possession of marijuana or civil possession of drug paraphernalia.

If you are in possession of less than two-and-a-half ounces of marijuana in the State of Maine, that is a civil offense. It is also a civil offense to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. It is a drug-related offense but it is a civil offense. Drug paraphernalia includes roaches, rolling papers, roach clips, pipes, bongs, pretty much anything you can think of with the exception of hypodermic apparatuses that are associated with intravenous drug usage.

Now, what are the possible consequences of a civil offense? For many people, it can affect your ability to continue to receive college student loans. You should be very careful about ever admitting to the offense of possession of marijuana or possession of drug paraphernalia because even though they are civil offenses, the ramifications of admission can go further beyond what you may foresee as being potential consequences. Future employers may see the conviction, which might prevent you from securing a job. White-collar professionals are likely to be affected by a civil drug possession conviction as many professionals have a board of overseers that they must report to. These professionals include doctors, chiropractors, lawyers, pharmacists, and nurses. These professional boards are always concerned when a member of their profession is involved in a drug crime and may hold a formal inquiry that could jeopardize your license to practice.

So, if you’re in the state of Maine and you’ve been charged with a civil possession of marijuana or a civil possession of drug paraphernalia, don’t take the easy route, go into court and admit to the offense. For many of you, a very big and irreversible mistake. Instead, pick up the phone and call my office. We’ll take the time to talk about the case so that you can make an informed, educated decision on how to proceed. I look forward to speaking with you soon. Thank you.