Avoiding Marijuana Drug Charges in Wisconsin
As more and more states legalize marijuana, it is easy to let down your guard and think it is not a big deal here in Wisconsin. That could not be further from the truth. Although there have been movements to decriminalize marijuana in the state, it has not happened yet. It is still illegal to use or be caught with marijuana here and doing so will result in marijuana drug charges.
You Risk State and Federal Charges
Marijuana use remains illegal under both Wisconsin state law and federal law. If convicted of the charges, you are facing either a state or federal drug crime. You can go to jail, be fined, and will have a criminal record. Once law enforcement is aware of marijuana in your possession, you might find the drug charges piling up. Being charged with an OWI for driving under the influence of marijuana is one example of this.
Purchasing marijuana in a state where it is legal, like Illinois, is not a safeguard. As soon as you cross the border into Wisconsin you risk drug possession charges if caught. You may even face federal drug charges for carrying marijuana across state lines.
Marijuana is a Schedule I Controlled Substance at the Federal Level
This is a good reminder that state drug charges aren’t the only thing you have to worry about. The federal government still classifies marijuana as a controlled substance and only recently downgraded it from Schedule IV to Schedule I. Since it is illegal at the federal level, you can face federal drug charges for cultivating, possessing, or selling marijuana even in states where marijuana is legal.
Federal crimes are often punished more harshly than state drug crimes and a conviction will show up on your record as a federal crime.
Beat Marijuana Drug Charges With Help From Eisenberg Law
Despite marijuana becoming more mainstream across the U.S, the fact remains that it is not legal in this state. Violating state or federal drug laws is a serious crime with far-reaching repercussions on your life.
A conviction on marijuana drug charges puts your freedom, your reputation, and your livelihood at risk. Do not leave your defense to chance. Contact the criminal defense attorneys at Eisenberg Law Offices in Madison. We provide state and federal drug crime defense to minimize your exposure and protect your rights.
If you are facing drug charges, call 608-256-8356 or email info@eisenberglaw.org to schedule a free, confidential consultation.