Is Marijuana Legal in Colorado?

Colorado legalized marijuana in January 2014, becoming one of the few states where an adult over 21 can possess, buy, and use marijuana legally. Colorado voters passed Amendment 64, which makes it legal to carry, retail, and consume marijuana, whether one is a resident or a tourist.

Despite its legalization, many attorneys have been flooded with questions on marijuana possession and use. A lawyer from a reputable Colorado criminal defense law firm provides an overview of what you need to know about marijuana in Colorado. Just because it’s legalized doesn’t mean you should be reckless when handling marijuana.

How Can I Make a Legal Marijuana Purchase?

While it’s legal to purchase marijuana if you’re over 21 years, you should know what the law says about its purchase. You can only buy the substance from a licensed dispensary within the state. These approved stores provide various marijuana products, and licensed budtenders can guide your experience.

Entering a licensed marijuana pharmacy requires a valid identification document, such as your driver’s license. It will enable the budtender to verify your age. If you’ve been arrested for illegally purchasing marijuana, contact a skilled Colorado Springs marijuana defense lawyer for legal counsel.

How Much Marijuana Can I Buy or Possess in Colorado?

In the past, Colorado made a distinction between residents and visitors. Currently, residents and non-residents may purchase the same amount of marijuana. Any adult with a valid ID can obtain up to one ounce of flower marijuana. In Colorado, one oz. of marijuana flower is equivalent to 8 grams of concentrate or 800 milligrams of edibles.

What Does the Law Say About Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana?

Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or marijuana is illegal in Colorado, just like in other states. Similar to alcohol, Colorado has an established level of marijuana impairment. If you’re caught with five nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood can be charged with a DUI offense.

Using marijuana for medical purposes won’t exonerate you from the charges. Consult an aggressive marijuana defense lawyer in Colorado Springs to defend you against the charges to protect your rights and future.

Driving with Marijuana in Your Car

The law prohibits having open containers in your car, even if you’re not moving. Neither you nor your passengers should have open containers. You can be charged with a traffic offense if the packaging seal has been broken, some of the product has been consumed, or there is evidence that there was the use of marijuana in the car.

It’s recommendable to place marijuana in a closed trunk at the back of your car when transporting it. That way, it’ll be clear you didn’t consume the substance even if law enforcement officers stop you and search your vehicle. Ensure the marijuana isn’t within the driver’s reach, as it may create the impression that the driver was consuming marijuana while driving.

Traveling While in Possession of Marijuana

Colorado laws make it illegal to take marijuana with you across state lines. Marijuana is prohibited at the Denver International Airport and other airports and their property. You can’t fly, mail, drive, hike, or bike marijuana products containing THC across state lines because you will be violating federal laws on marijuana.

You also can’t use marijuana on federal property since the substance is still illegal under federal law. If you’re a visitor in Colorado, it’s vital that you respect others and don’t violate the law if you want to get high on the product. If you find yourself on the wrong side of the law, contact a reputable criminal defense law firm in Colorado to help you fight the charges.

How Can I Use Marijuana Responsibly and Legally?

The biggest challenge for residents and out-of-state residents is where to legally smoke marijuana without violating the law. Public consumption of marijuana remains illegal, so it would be best to use it privately. However, your landlord can refuse you to smoke it on their property.

Some spaces to avoid smoking marijuana are:

  • Sidewalks
  • Parks
  • Open spaces
  • Public ways
  • Streets
  • Gold courses
  • Public buildings
  • Trails
  • Bicycle paths
  • Shopping centers
  • Parking lots

Vehicles, including your car, located on public property

Can I Legally Grow Marijuana at Home?

Adults over 21 can grow up to six marijuana plants per individual at home. However, there may not be more than 12 plants per residence. That’s regardless of the number of individuals living in one household.

What Are the Penalties for Violating Marijuana Laws in Colorado?

The penalties for violating marijuana laws vary, depending on your offense. Generally, you risk the following penalties:

Possession of more than two oz. of marijuana: A misdemeanor offense with a possible jail time of between 3 and 18 months and a fine of between $1,000 and $5,000. Possession with intent to distribute enhances the sentence.

  • Sale or distribution: A possible jail time of between 6 months and 32 years, and a fine of between $5,000 and $1,000,000, depending on the amount of marijuana.
  • Cultivation: A jail term of between 6 months and 6 years, and a fine of between $100,000 and $500,000, depending on the number of plants.
  • Possession of paraphernalia: The offense is a petty offense that attracts a fine of $100.

If you’ve been arrested for and charged with marijuana offenses, don’t go to trial alone. Talk to an aggressive and knowledgeable marijuana defense attorney in Colorado Springs and let them provide the legal support you need.

Legal Counsel and Representation From an Aggressive Defense Lawyer

The rules on marijuana are constantly changing, and it’s in your interest to familiarize yourself with the regulations. If you need to know anything about marijuana laws in Colorado, consult a reputable Colorado criminal defense law firm.

We have skilled marijuana defense lawyers who can help you fight marijuana charges if you’re arrested for a marijuana offense. We believe your past mistakes should not define your future or prohibit you from living your best life. Contact Joyner Law at (719) 294-0566 to speak to a knowledgeable marijuana defense attorney in Colorado.