We know that this is one of the most stressful times of your life.

You don’t know where to turn and you likely feel apprehensive about your legal options. Hatley Law Office will work to reduce or eliminate the damage a marijuana related charge can cause. Contact us today so that we can help take this weight off your shoulders. Together, we will walk through the next steps, develop a comprehensive strategy, and build the best defense available. We know North Carolina’s laws. We can spot strengths and weaknesses in your case. Based on these details, we can attempt to seek a dismissal of your charges

North Carolina Marijuana Laws

Marijuana is treated differently under state law than other controlled substances.

The North Carolina Commission for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services classifies narcotics into “schedules,” which are essentially based upon potential for abuse and safety of the drug.


Marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids have their own schedule, Schedule VI. While the law for the schedule says that marijuana does not have accepted medical uses, it does say that there is a “need for further and continuing study to develop scientific evidence of its pharmacological effects.”

Possible Penalties

The penalties you may face for marijuana charges can be affected by whether or not you’ve had prior convictions. North Carolina uses a structured sentencing system, and your punishment could go up if you have a criminal record. Penalties for first-time offenses include:
 

For a Class 3 misdemeanor, you can be sentenced from 1-10 days in jail. However, you may also be sentenced to community service, probation or drug treatment. However, the judge can decide to sentence you to no jail time at all.

For a Class 1 misdemeanor, you may face 1-45 days in jail, although that jail time may also be converted into community service time or probation. We can argue why you deserve the least amount of punishment.

For a Class 1 felony, you could face between 4 to 6 months in jail. If this is your first offense, you may be eligible for a deferral program. Under the deferral program, you must take 15 hours of classes, twice per week for three weeks. For a year, you could be subject to random drug tests, which you must pay for, and likely be required to keep a clean criminal record.

 

Our Promise to You as North Carolina Marijuana Defense Attorneys

Our attorneys are well-versed in marijuana defense.

With all that’s at stake, you need a skilled, zealous advocate who will be there with you every step of the way. We are a 21st century law firm, built to revolutionize legal defense by delivering exceptional service and modern convenience. We believe you deserve a convenient and pain-free legal process.

Our firm will work with you in navigating the legal process involved with various levels of marijuana possession and will employ aggressive and effective defense strategies in attempting to obtain the best possible outcome.

If you have been charged with possessing, selling or cultivating marijuana or paraphernalia, the lawyers at Hatley Law Office can defend you. Our team will carefully analyze the procedures leading to your arrest and challenge the prosecutor's evidence. We can also assist you with drug treatment court and other options, always maintaining your best interests as our top priority.

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If you are facing a complex legal matter, it is vital that you retain the immediate representation of legal counsel. Make the smart choice – enlist the supportive assistance of our attorneys today.