Marijuana possession and growing marijuana are considered criminal offenses that may result in a sentence of 99 years in prison, depending on how many cannabis plants were grown.
In Texas, law enforcement agencies always keep a keen eye out for operations that grow marijuana. Grow lights and other special equipment are often a major indication that marijuana cultivation is going on inside a home. Cultivating and harvesting marijuana could indicate supply for distribution, which can be additional charges.
A marijuana law lawyer is best poised to help you in your criminal defense against this type of marijuana charge. At Tisdell Law Firm, we specialize in representing defendants charged with marijuana possession, growing marijuana plants, and more. Our knowledge of the complexities of marijuana laws in the state of Texas can help protect your legal rights. Contact a criminal defense attorney from our law offices today to discuss defense strategies.
Cannabis Cultivation Regulations in Texas
Can you get into trouble if you grow a marijuana plant? The laws in Texas do not permit the growth, harvest, or cultivation of the cannabis plant or its buds. If you grow weed in Texas, you will face state possession laws as you are knowingly or intentionally possessing an amount of marijuana to grow.
There is only one exception to the regulations for growing marijuana in Texas. This is for medical marijuana, which is only permitted in certain parts of Texas. Only authorized distributors are permitted to grow weed for medical marijuana. The plants that are grown are reserved only for use by patients who have a qualifying medical marijuana card. If you are not granted this permission by the state, then you will face criminal charges.
Penalties for Cultivation of Weed in Texas
Even though cannabis cultivation regulations in Texas are not specific in this regard, you can still face penalties if you cultivate marijuana in this state without being authorized. You will be charged with possession of marijuana, though the severity of your penalties will depend on how much cannabis you have at the time of your arrest.
Here is a look at the potential penalties for violating Texas cannabis laws.
Class B Misdemeanor
If you grow cannabis and have 2 ounces or less, your criminal charge will be a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
Class A Misdemeanor
You will face a Class A misdemeanor if you grow 4 ounces or less, though it must be more than 2 ounces. You could serve up to one year in jail and pay $4,000 in fines.
State Jail Felony
A state jail felony is reserved for those caught cultivating 5 pounds or less, though more than 4 ounces. A conviction means you’ll spend up to 24 months in jail and pay up to $10,000 in fines.
Third Degree Felony
A third-degree felony is charged for more than 5 pounds but less than 50 pounds. If you are convicted, you may face up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Second Degree Felony
Criminal defense becomes even more essential as you face second-degree felony charges. These are applied under criminal law for 50 pounds or more but less than 2,000 pounds. A respected defense lawyer will be needed to help you fight these penalties, which may mean up to 20 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
First Degree Felony
If you have more than 2,000 pounds of weed that you have cultivated, you could spend life in prison for a first-degree felony. The minimum sentence is five years while the maximum is 99 years. You will also need to pay up to $10,000 in fines.
Texas is harsh on those facing marijuana charges. Contact our law offices today to have our criminal defense lawyers help you fight marijuana cultivation accusations and provide a viable defense.
How a Marijuana Law Lawyer Can Help You with Criminal Defense Against Marijuana Possession and Marijuana Cultivation
Our law offices at Tisdell Law Firm are experienced in marijuana defense for an array of charges. Criminal cases like these require legal representation to ensure that your rights are protected. It’s a tough situation, but with our extensive experience, we can provide the counsel you need.
When you are accused of cultivating marijuana in Amarillo, Texas, or the surrounding counties, you can rely on our legal experience to help you stand up to marijuana cultivation and distribution allegations. Schedule a consultation with our law office today.
