Raleigh Marijuana Lawyer
Defending misdemeanor marijuana possession charges in Wake County with careful case analysis and strategic negotiation to protect your future.
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Strategic Defense for Wake County Marijuana Charges
A marijuana charge in Wake County can trigger a lot of stress and uncertainty. From the moment charges are filed, the situation can escalate quickly and feel difficult to control. Even a single marijuana conviction can affect employment, education, reputation, and future opportunities for years to come.
John McWilliam, PLLC uses careful investigation, courtroom advocacy, and a willingness to challenge law enforcement to defend clients facing misdemeanor marijuana possession charges in Wake County.
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Contact John McWilliam, PLLC, for Marijuana Charges in Wake County
Benefits of Working with Raleigh Marijuana Lawyer - John McWilliam
Marijuana possession laws in North Carolina are complex. Hiring the right defense lawyer can significantly influence whether your charge is reduced, dismissed, or results in long-term consequences.
Extensive Knowledge of NC Marijuana Possession Laws
John McWilliam’s deep understanding of North Carolina’s marijuana possession laws, including the requirements and weight thresholds outlined in N.C. Gen. Stat. § 90-95(a)(3), allows him to quickly identify where the State’s case may be weak or incomplete. This knowledge helps him craft defense strategies that protect your record and reputation.
Decades of Defense Experience in Wake County
For more than 30 years, John has handled criminal cases in Raleigh and the surrounding areas of Wake County. He is familiar with how prosecutors assess marijuana possession cases, how judges weigh evidence, and what kinds of mistakes officers commonly make during searches and arrests. This deep understanding allows him to anticipate the State’s strategy and build a defense tailored to local courtroom practices.
Close Examination of Evidence and Police Procedures
Misdemeanor marijuana cases often hinge on small but important details—the number of grams listed on a report, the way the substance was handled, the interpretation of paraphernalia, and the circumstances surrounding the encounter with police. John reviews all aspects of the State’s case against you, and if anything appears inaccurate, incomplete, or unsupported, it becomes an opportunity to challenge the charge.
Aiming for the Most Favorable Outcome Possible
John’s objective is always to position clients for the best possible result under the law. While no lawyer can promise a specific outcome, he works diligently to pursue dismissals or reductions when the evidence is weak or when police procedures were improper. If a dismissal isn’t realistic, he focuses on minimizing long-term repercussions, protecting your record, and avoiding unnecessary penalties.
Consequences of a NC Misdemeanor Marijuana Conviction
Marijuana charges affect far more than the court case—they can disrupt future plans, career paths, and personal stability. Below are some of the most common consequences John works to prevent by pursuing reduced charges or, when possible, a full dismissal.
Legal Penalties
Penalties vary based on the amount involved (from grams to ounces), whether paraphernalia is alleged, and whether the State claims possession with intent to distribute. Consequences can include fines, community service, probation, or jail time in more serious cases.
Driver’s License Impact
Certain controlled substance convictions can trigger license restrictions, even if the incident did not involve a vehicle. Losing your license can interfere with work, school, and family responsibilities.
Financial Strain
A marijuana possession conviction can increase insurance costs, result in court fines and probation fees, and create income loss due to court dates or limited transportation. Over time, these expenses can add up significantly.
Employment and Personal Consequences
A marijuana charge—even at the misdemeanor level—can affect job prospects, licensing applications, educational opportunities, and background checks. Many employers view drug convictions as a disqualifying factor. It may also create stress within families or relationships and affect long-term personal goals.
How Our Defense Team Defends Marijuana Allegations for Clients
No two marijuana cases are the same. Weight, packaging, THC potency, officer conduct, and search details vary widely. John builds defense strategies around the specific factors in each client’s case and looks closely at every angle that may create doubt or opportunities for dismissal.
Assessing the Legality of the Search
Most marijuana charges begin with a search of a vehicle, home, pocket, or bag. John examines whether officers had valid legal grounds to conduct the search. If the search was unconstitutional, crucial evidence may be thrown out.
Challenging Total Weight and Potency Measurements
Weight is often the deciding factor in the severity of misdemeanor marijuana charges for possession. John investigates how the marijuana was weighed—whether packaging, stems, or unusable material were included—and whether THC potency was properly tested. These issues can significantly alter the level of the charge.
Analyzing Officer Observations and Written Reports
John and his team review the officer’s report for gaps, overstatements, or inconsistencies. Claims such as marijuana odor, “nervous behavior,” or assumed admissions are often mischaracterized or exaggerated and may be challenged.
Disputing Paraphernalia Allegations
Rolling papers, grinders, vape pens, pipes, and similar items do not automatically prove illegal activity took place. John examines whether the items fit the statutory definition of paraphernalia under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 90-113.22.
Protecting Constitutional Rights
If officers lacked probable cause, exceeded their authority, or failed to follow proper procedure, the evidence against you, according to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-974, may be suppressed. John reviews the entire sequence of events to identify constitutional issues that can impact the case.
Common Marijuana Possession Charges
Here are the common misdemeanor marijuana-related charges clients face in the Greater Raleigh area:
- Simple Possession of Up to 1.5 Ounces of Marijuana: This covers possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use, typically less than half an ounce, and can still lead to fines, probation, and a criminal record.
- Possession of Marijuana Paraphernalia: Items like rolling papers, grinders, pipes, vape cartridges, or baggies may be charged as paraphernalia if police claim they were used to store, prepare, or consume marijuana.
Other Types of Marijuana Charges
More serious marijuana accusations also occur in Wake County, often involving higher weight, THC concentration, or alleged intent.
Examples include:
- Possession With Intent to Sell or Deliver (PWISD)
- Maintaining a Vehicle or Dwelling for Controlled Substances
- Felony Marijuana Trafficking Based on Weight Thresholds
- THC Concentrate, Vape, or Edible-Related Offenses
- Underage Marijuana Possession
Schedule a Free Consultation
Contact John McWilliam, PLLC, for Marijuana Charges in Wake County
Commonly Asked Questions about Marijuana Possession Charges
When Does Marijuana Possession Become a Felony?
Marijuana possession becomes a felony in North Carolina when the weight exceeds 1.5 ounces, when the State claims possession with intent to sell or deliver under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 90-95(a)(1), or when the amount meets felony trafficking thresholds.
Can I Be Convicted in North Carolina Even if Marijuana Is Legal in Other States?
Marijuana laws in other states have no impact on charges brought in North Carolina. Possession of marijuana—including products legally purchased elsewhere—is still illegal and you can be charged even if the substance came from a state where it is fully legal or medically permitted.
Schedule a Free Consultation with John McWilliam for Marijuana Charges in Wake County
If you’ve been charged with marijuana possession in Wake County, taking action quickly is one of the best steps you can take. Early investigation helps preserve your rights, challenge questionable evidence, and work toward a reduction or dismissal.
Contact John McWilliam, PLLC, a Raleigh marijuana lawyer with decades of experience by calling 919-772-4000 or completing our online form by pressing the “free consultation” button to get started.
