130 North Cherry Street, Suite 103 Olathe, KS 66061
(913) 780-6666

Marijuana Legalization

At a recent forum hosting candidates for Shawnee County District Attorney, all three Republican candidates rejected the idea of marijuana legalization in the county and state. Mike Kagay, Karen Wittman and Keen Umbehr all believe the risks outweigh any benefits legalization might have on the general public.

While Kansas recently decreased penalties and neighboring states like Colorado have fully legalized the drug, many in power fail to see how such a move could have positive impacts on the state. In fact, Kagay and Wittman both pointed to issues in Colorado as evidence as to why Kansas should avoid a similar move.

Kansas marijuana possession penalties

In February 2016, Kansas State Senate approved House Bill 2049 by a vote of 38 to 1. The bill lowered penalties for simple possession of marijuana but did not come close to any kind of legalization. The House version of the bill was passed in May 2015 and is expected to take effect in the coming months.

Under the new law, possession of marijuana in Kansas would be a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of no more than $1,000. Even though attitudes on marijuana are changing around the country, individuals can still be arrested and face jail time for possession of the illegal drug in Kansas.

Penalties for sale or distribution of marijuana in Kansas remain extremely harsh. Possession with intent to distribute marijuana is a felony that carries a penalty of at least 14 months in jail and a maximum of fine of $300,000.

Olathe marijuana arrest lawyer

With 18 years of experience as a Johnson County District Attorney and additional time spent as Kansas Attorney General, Paul Morrison has unique perspective on how to defend the rights of the accused and help clear their good name. Drug possession, even for marijuana, should be treated as a serious matter and defendants need to hire an attorney with the right experience to prevent long term repercussions.

The Morrison Law Firm, LLC serves clients throughout Olathe, Overland Park, Kansas City, Leawood, Lenexa, Merriam, Mission, Shawnee and Westwood as well as Johnson County, Douglas County, Jackson County, Leavenworth County and Miami County, Kansas. Contact our office for your legal consultation, call us today (913) 780-6666.

 

Speak to an Experienced Attorney Today

Call Morrison Law Firm, LLC in Olathe at (913) 780-6666 or send an e-mail to schedule a free consultation.