How would medical marijuana affect drug crimes in Minnesota?

Many people in Minneapolis and St. Paul may be wondering what changes a new medical marijuana bill could have on the criminal justice system if it becomes law next year, including how drug offenses will be prosecuted. With many states passing medical marijuana laws of their own, there may be concerns about being wrongfully charged with or convicted of drug crimes.

What would happen, for example, if the law was not explicitly clear about who could grow and manufacture medical marijuana? What if there was room for interpretation on who was able to sell marijuana to individuals with a prescription? What if it was unclear what, if anything, someone with a prescription for medical marijuana needed to have on his or her person when using their medicine?

All of these things could lead to arrests, criminal charges and convictions in Minnesota for a variety of drug crimes. Someone who believes he or she is complying with the law could be convicted of, for example, manufacturing marijuana because he or she failed to comply with one of the facets of the medical marijuana law.

Right now, it is not entirely clear if the bill will pass. Though the legislators introduced legislation earlier this month, they will not actually discuss or vote on the bill until next year. Until that time, the drug laws in Minnesota will not change. While the legislators tout the bill as the most conservative medical marijuana bill in the country, there could still be considerable room for interpretation, opening the floodgates for wrongful or mistaken marijuana charges.

Source: Minnesota Public Radio, “Medical marijuana bill introduced for debate next year,” Tim Pugmire, May 2, 2013

Max Keller has won countless jury trial cases involving misdemeanors and felonies, sex crimes, and DWI’s. He is a member of the Minnesota Society for Criminal Justice, which only allows the top 50 criminal defense attorneys in the state as members. Max is a frequent speaker at CLE’s and is often asked for advice by other defense attorneys across Minnesota.

Years of Experience: Approx. 20 years
Minnesota Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: State of Minnesota Minnesota State Court Minnesota Federal Court 8th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals State of Maryland

What to Do If You Have Been Charged with a Criminal Offense

What Happens If You Get a DWI While Riding a Scooter or E-Bike in Minneapolis?

Minnesota DWI laws apply to all types of motorized vehicles using the road. So, you may get arrested and charged with DWI while riding a scooter or E-bike if your blood alcohol concentration is 0.08 or more. The penalties for a DWI conviction may range from driver license suspension or revocation and fines to imprisonment. A conviction may also result in collateral consequences, including job loss and higher auto insurance premiums. A DWI lawyer can minimize the legal consequences or avoid them altogether. So, be sure to retain a lawyer immediately after you get arrested or charged for riding a scooter or e-bike while impaired.

Can a Criminal Record Impact New Charges in Minnesota?

People with prior convictions and facing new charges may wonder, “Can a criminal record impact new charges in Minnesota?” Having a criminal record can influence how the prosecution and court will handle your current charges. The court may deny your bail request or impose strict conditions. It may also impose harsh penalties. The prosecution, on the other hand, may be reluctant to give you a favorable plea deal if you have a prior conviction for a similar or related offense.