Drug charges can turn your life upside-down. No matter which substance is involved, or how serious the charges you face are deemed to be, you can be sure if convicted the consequences are not trivial. Employers may be reluctant to allow you to continue working for them, friends and family may be unsure how to react and you could even face the loss of any professional licenses, your driver’s license and anything similar.
The extent of the penalties for a drug charge can largely depend on the substance involved. In general, marijuana is a topic under much dispute. In fact, California has been weighing the pros and cons of legalizing the drug. On one hand, legalization would allow the state to earn revenue by taxing marijuana. It would also permit stricter and safer regulation of the drug. However, it could also lead to more wanton use of the drug, potentially resulting in serious injuries.
Another large concern is that some families may fail to keep the drug out of reach of vulnerable people such as children. Ingesting marijuana could result in serious health complications and long-term harm for a child. Furthermore, if your child is found to have accessed the substance in your home or under your care, this could even affect your parental rights.
Although the state is considering the legalization of marijuana use in California, for now, if you are found with the drug, you could still be charged. Also, it is important to bear in mind that even if a bill for legalization is passed, the chances are that it will come with very specific limitations. It is always worth being as clear as possible on the laws of your home state before having any involvement with controlled substances.
If you have any queries about drug laws in California, or you are faced with criminal charges in connection with a drug-related offense, you may benefit from the advice and support of an attorney. He or she can help you to understand your position and may be able to assist you as you work to avoid conviction and protect your future.
Source: Kusi News, “Consequences of legalization of marijuana in California,” Sasha Foo, March 28, 2015