Legal Question in Criminal Law in Massachusetts
marijuana possession
i have had a prior as minor for possession of a small amount of weed and 2 years later i am now being charged with possession again.... the first offense i had to pay 150 for a drug course and do 8 hours of community service... what should i be expecting in court/do i get a lawyer?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: marijuana possession
You should retain an attorney as one would be appointed only if you qualify financially.
Re: marijuana possession
Even though it seems like a minor charge, I would absolutely get a lawyer. The money you save by not getting one will be long forgotten while that record stays in place for the rest of your life. Make sure the outcome is the very best available and you will never know that unless you hire a good criminal defense attorney. The outcome is dependant on many variables such as 1) the facts of the case; 2) what the outcome of the prior possession was (CWOF/G/Dism/Noll Pross/etc.); 3) what if any, other previous charges you may have and their outcomes; and 4) if there is room to challenge the stop/search/evidence/etc., how willing you are to challenge the charges vs accept a plea and move on with the record. I wouldn't take a plea without at least looking at your options. A Guilty on a Possession, even Class D, can cause a 1 yr loss of license. A subsequent offense, although not likely on weed, can cause a jail term. Call us if you would like to explore options.
Re: marijuana possession
Yes, get a lawyer.
Last time you probably got a CWOF; the best you can get if you get is another CWOF or a guilty.
Get a lawyer, and if you want one, contact me.
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