5 Important Things to Know About Colorado Marijuana Laws (Part 2)

January 19, 2014

While Colorado marijuana laws permit the sale and use of recreational pot in certain places, it’s still illegal to drive while impaired by pot.

Continuing from 5 Important Things to Know About Colorado Marijuana Laws (Part 1), the following discusses three additional important facts that Colorado residents should be aware of when it comes to buying and possessing recreational pot in the state.

Fact 3: It’s Still Illegal for Underage People to Possess Pot 

Although Colorado marijuana laws allow for the legal purchase and use of pot by adults who are at least 21 years old, it is still illegal for people who are younger than 21 to buy or possess marijuana. However, it’s important to point out that:

• People who are between the ages of 18 and 21 years old will NOT face jail time if they are caught with an ounce or less of pot (as in the past they could face up to one year in jail for such possession convictions).
• These individuals will now only face fines if they are convicted of marijuana possession (of an ounce or less of the drug).
• Minors (i.e., people who are younger than 18 years old) can be sent to juvenile assessment or detention centers if they are convicted of possessing marijuana (or of growing or selling the drug).

Fact 4: You Cannot Smoke Pot in Public Places

According to the law, it’s only legal to smoke recreational marijuana in private residences. This means that it is illegal to smoke pot in public and in any facility governed by Colorado’s Clean Indoor Air Act (which includes pot shops).

Fact 5: You Can Still Get a DUI If You Drive While High

Drivers who are found to have more than 5 nanograms of active THC in their bloodstreams (through a blood test) can be ticketed and arrested for DUI and can face the same penalties that are levied when drivers are convicted of alcohol-related DUIs. This essentially means that it’s still illegal to drive while high or impaired by marijuana.

Denver and Boulder Metro Area Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Griffin Law Firm

Facing any type of criminal charges can be both scary and stressful, as a conviction could cost you your reputation, your career, your family and even your freedom. If you or your loved one has been arrested for and/or formally charged with any crime, Christopher Griffin wants you to know that he is ready to immediately start providing you with the strongest possible defense against police and prosecutors – both outside and inside of the courtroom.

Regardless of whether you are facing criminal charges for the first time, have prior convictions and/or were on probation or parole at the time of the alleged crime, Christopher Griffin and all of the legal professionals at the Griffin Law Firm will work relentlessly to help you obtain the best possible outcome to your case. In fact, our steadfast dedication to the notion that the accused are innocent until proven guilty means that we will do everything in our power to help you resolve your case in the most favorable and efficient manner possible.

To receive a complete evaluation of your case, along with professional advice regarding your best options, contact us by calling 303-280-1070 or by emailing us using the form at the top of this page.

Categories: Blogs, Colorado Marijuana Laws, Drugs, DUI, Marijuana