Victorville Marijuana Cultivation Lawyer
Fighting Criminal Charges for Growing Cannabis Plants
Marijuana cultivation involves the process of growing cannabis plants. This includes planting seeds, nurturing the plants as they grow, harvesting at the appropriate time, and then engaging in post-harvest tasks like drying, curing, and trimming.
While California has legalized the recreational cultivation of marijuana, it's important to note that laws still regulate the number of plants an individual can grow. Even though growing marijuana for personal use is permitted, limitations ensure compliance with legal guidelines.
Cultivating marijuana beyond the permitted limits can lead to serious legal consequences. Those found growing more plants than allowed can face criminal charges and associated penalties. For individuals under 18, these consequences might involve participation in drug education or counseling programs and community service. Meanwhile, individuals aged 18 and over could be imprisoned and fined.
If facing charges related to the cultivation of marijuana in Victorville, seeking legal representation is essential. Hiring a skilled attorney can make a significant difference. At Holistic Legal, we approach each case with an aggressive defense strategy. We meticulously review the circumstances surrounding the charges to build a strong case. Our primary focus is protecting our clients' rights while working relentlessly toward favorable outcomes.
Don’t face criminal charges alone. Contact our Victorville marijuana cultivation lawyer at (760) 227-7625 to discuss your case.
The Legal Framework Concerning Marijuana Cultivation
As of the current law, individuals 21 years of age and older can cultivate up to six cannabis plants for personal use. Those under 21 are not allowed to grow any marijuana plants.
These provisions fall under the broader scope of the state's recreational marijuana laws. Individuals must be aware of the limit to avoid inadvertently exceeding the allowed cultivation range.
Differentiation Between Medical and Recreational Cultivation Laws
California's legal landscape for marijuana cultivation considers medical and recreational use. For individuals using marijuana for medicinal purposes, the rules may differ. While the recreational cultivation limit is six plants, medicinal users can cultivate more if a physician prescribes it.
Factors Influencing Cultivation Charges
California's legal stance on marijuana cultivation is detailed under California Health and Safety Code § 11358. The statute clarifies that growing marijuana beyond the permitted limit is prohibited. Staying within the legally allowed amount of cultivation is key to ensuring compliance with the state's regulations.
Various factors influence the severity of marijuana cultivation charges in California. Age, for instance, plays a significant role. Minors caught cultivating marijuana may face distinct legal consequences compared to adults. Additionally, an individual's criminal history matters. Having one or more prior convictions can escalate the charges and the potential penalties one might face.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Cultivation
As mentioned previously, the charges and consequences of marijuana cultivation depend on several factors. We discuss the possible penalties under different circumstances below.
For Persons Under 18 Years of Age
If an individual under the age of 18 is found growing any number of marijuana plants, they could face an infraction.
For a first-time violation, the penalties typically include attending eight hours of drug education or counseling and up to 40 hours of community service.
In the case of a subsequent violation, the penalties might involve 10 hours of drug education or counseling, along with community service lasting up to 60 hours.
For Individuals Between 18 and 20 Years of Age
If someone between 18 and 20 cultivates not more than six marijuana plants, they could be charged with an infraction. In such cases, they might be subject to a fine of $100.
For Those 18 Years of Age or Older (Growing Over Six Plants)
Individuals 18 years of age or older who cultivate more than six marijuana plants can face more serious consequences. The offense is a misdemeanor, which carries a fine that could go up to $500. In addition, those found guilty might be sentenced to serve up to six months in county jail.
For those 18 Years of Age or Older (With Prior Convictions)
If someone 18 years of age or older grows more than six cannabis plants and has one or more prior convictions for the same offense or if the cultivation resulted in a violation of Water or Fish and Game Codes, the crime is a felony.
A conviction could lead to a substantially more severe punishment. Those found guilty might face a fine and/or imprisonment for a period ranging from 16 months to 2 or 3 years.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Having a dedicated Victorville marijuana cultivation attorney is crucial when facing charges. Their insights can be instrumental in mitigating potential penalties. Criminal defense lawyers possess the skills to thoroughly review the case, identifying violations of your rights during the investigation process. Such violations can lead to evidence being excluded, potentially weakening the prosecution's arguments.
Moreover, an attorney can carefully analyze the facts, constructing a robust and compelling defense strategy to challenge the prosecutor's case and pursue a favorable outcome.
At Holistic Legal, we are here to help navigate the legal process and fight charges. Contact us at (760) 227-7625 for a free consultation.
Our Settlements & Verdicts
Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.
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Charge Dismissed 2nd Degree Robbery & Assault Likely to Produce GBI ( Felony-Strike Offense)
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Charge Reduced Arson & Insurance Fraud ( Felony-Strike Offense)
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Case Dismissed: Domestic Violence Case Dismissed - Domestic Violence
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Charge Dismissed: Murder Charge Dismissed - Murder
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Case Reduced Corporal Injury to Spouse / Cohabitant (Domestic Violence Charges)
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Case Dismissed Cruelty to a Child (Misdo)