Marijuana Crimes by Minors
Drug possession is one of the most common criminal offenses that minors can be accused of, and the controlled substance involved in many cases is marijuana. The Juvenile Court in Utah has jurisdiction over cases involving persons under 30 years of age, and the penalties for minors who violate federal, state, or local laws are not the same as the ones that adults may be sentenced to.
The Juvenile Court still retains broad discretionary powers and minors may still be subject to certain sanctions or other penalties if the court determines such actions would be reasonable for the best interest of the minor or for the protection of the public. Even when penalties are less severe than they would be for adult offenses, juvenile marijuana convictions can still have very damaging long-term consequences.
Lawyer for Marijuana Crimes by Minors in Salt Lake City
If you or your child is a minor who was recently arrested for any kind of marijuana crime in Utah, it is in your best interest to immediately seek legal representation. Susanne Gustin Attorney at Law aggressively defends juveniles in communities throughout Weber County and Salt Lake County.
Salt Lake City criminal defense lawyer Susanne Gustin can fight to help you achieve the most favorable outcome that results in the fewest consequences. You can have her review your case and discuss all of your legal options as soon as you call (801) 243-2814 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
Utah Marijuana Crimes by Minors Information Center
- Types of Marijuana Crimes by Minors in Salt Lake County
- Penalties for Marijuana Crimes by Minors in Utah
- Salt Lake County Marijuana Crimes by Minors Resources
Types of Marijuana Crimes by Minors in Salt Lake County
Many minors are arrested for cannabis offenses during searches conducted as part of routine traffic stops. In other cases, students may be arrested at school.
Some of the most common marijuana crimes that minors are accused of include, but are not limited to:
- Possession of Marijuana
- Sale of Marijuana
- Production of Marijuana
- Distribution of Marijuana
- Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Penalties for Marijuana Crimes by Minors in Utah
In most cases, first convictions for marijuana crimes committed by minors will result in the Juvenile Court imposing any combination of the following penalties:
- Up to 100 hours of community service
- Fine of up to $500
- 90-day suspension of driver’s license
- Attendance at approved substance abuse program
An approved substance abuse program may be counted toward community service hours. If a minor does not yet have a driver’s license, a conviction will result in the issuance of the license being delayed for a minimum of six months.
Marijuana crimes committed on school property, parks, churches, or within a 1000 feet of a public or private school are automatically enhanced one full degree. Other enhancements can apply in cases involving firearms, dangerous weapons, or prior convictions.
Salt Lake County Marijuana Crimes by Minors Resources
Public Health Indicator Based Information System (IBIS-PH) | Health Indicator Report of Substance Abuse | Adolescents — Utah’s IBIS-PH website provides statistical numerical data and contextual information on the health status of Utah residents and the state of Utah’s health care system. Visit this website to learn more about marijuana use by Grades 8, 10, and 12 students in the state in 2017. You can also find information about how marijuana use among teens in Utah compares to national averages.
Find a Juvenile Marijuana Defense Lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT
Were you or your child recently arrested for a marijuana offense in Utah? You will want to avoid making any statement to authorities until you have legal counsel. Contact Susanne Gustin Attorney at Law as soon as possible.
Susanne Gustin is an experienced criminal defense attorney in Salt Lake City who represents individuals in Salt Lake County and Weber County. Call (801) 243-2814 or complete an online contact form to have our lawyer provide an honest and thorough evaluation of your case during a free initial consultation.
This article was last updated by Jordan Anderson, on July 30th, 2018.