Unlike many other controlled substances, the chances are high that most people in the United States either know someone or have personally used marijuana at some point in their lives. According to recent studies, marijuana use is common worldwide and is rising in popularity, in the U.S. in particular.
A study published in the journal Lancet revealed that marijuana is the most commonly used drug across the globe. While it was the most popular drug around the world, marijuana was not the deadliest, as abuse of painkillers was most likely to lead to fatalities.
Marijuana use has also risen in popularity in the United States in recent years, according to data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The study found that marijuana was the most popular drug in the U.S. In addition, from 2007 to 2012, marijuana usage in the United States rose.
While many people might assume these statistics are based primarily on marijuana usage among young people, the study actually found use increased among those between the ages of 50 and 64, as well. In fact, from 2002 to 2012, marijuana use among those in their late 50s increased from just under 2 percent to 6.6 percent. Marijuana use is also common among the younger age groups, as would be expected. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that approximately 19 percent of Americans between 18 and 25 years of age used marijuana in the recent past.
Fight marijuana possession charges in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the severity of the penalties following a marijuana possession conviction will depend on the quantity of the substance found in the individual's possession.
For instance, if someone is found with a half ounce of marijuana or less, he or she may face misdemeanor charges with a potential maximum fine of $200. The possible penalties increase when he or she is found with between half an ounce and 1.5 ounces of marijuana. In such cases, the misdemeanor charges may result in one to 45 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
The most severe penalties are reserved for those found with between 1.5 ounces and 10 pounds of marijuana in their possession. In such cases, the individual may face felony charges, and could be sentenced to three to eight months in jail along with a maximum fine of $1,000.
If you have been charged with a marijuana crime in North Carolina, take steps to ensure your rights are protected. Seek the counsel of a skilled criminal defense attorney to ensure a strong defense is established on your behalf.
