New Hampshire marijuana laws are somewhat decriminalized for those charged for possession, but prove much less lenient for those caught selling or cultivating. Every year, the state makes around 4,000 arrests for marijuana-related charges, according to the Department of Justice. Additionally, the DEA reports that New Hampshire produces approximately 3,100 pounds of marijuana annually, with a street value of up to $26 million dollars.
Medical Marijuana Users
New Hampshire currently has no medical marijuana laws. A bill for legalizing medical marijuana outright, which cleared both houses, was recently vetoed by the governor.
Non-Medical Users:
New Hampshire treats all users as non-medical users. The state also treats users equally offenders equally, regardless of the amount in possession, in virtually all cases. The penalties for usage, in comparison to most other states, are quite small.
Penalties for Marijuana Use in New Hampshire:
|
Possession of any amount |
Misdemeanor |
Penalties include up to 1 year in jail and a $2,000 fine |
|
Possession age 15-18 |
Misdemeanor |
Driver’s license suspension for 90 days to 1 year |
Penalties for Growing, Selling and Trafficking:
Sale or Cultivation:
|
1 ounce or less, first offense |
Felony |
Penalties include up to 3 years of jail time and a $25,000 fine |
|
1 ounce to 5 pounds, first offense |
Felony |
Penalties include up to 7 years in jail and a $100,000 fine |
|
More than 5 pounds, first offense |
Felony |
Penalties include up to 20 years in jail and a $300,000 fine |
|
1,000 feet or less from a school |
Felony |
Double penalty |
|
Age 15-18 |
Felony |
Suspended license for 1 to 5 years |
Miscellaneous:
|
Possession or sale of Paraphernalia |
Misdemeanor |
Penalties include up to 1 year in jail and a $2,000 fine |
Penalties for Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana (DUID)
New Hampshire has no DUID or driving under the influence of marijuana laws, however, drivers found under the influence of marijuana will still most likely face charges of driving under the influence. Additionally, administrative penalties are in place, which restrict driving privileges of those individuals convicted of marijuana related charges.
Legal Help with a Marijuana Offense
If you are facing marijuana charges in New Hampshire, you should consult a marijuana attorney immediately. A marijuana lawyer knows the New Hampshire court system, and can work to get you the best judgment possible for your case, be it a plea bargain or, in some cases, a dismissal.
