Can Past Marijuana Charges in Maryland Be Expunged Now That It Is Legal?

 Posted on September 23, 2024 in Drug Crimes

A new law went into effect in Maryland last year aimed at legalizing most cannabis use in the state. Since this is still a relatively new law, some confusion remains about what is legal and what can end up with you facing drug charges. Similar to alcohol, which is legal to consume if you are over 21 years old and you abide by certain restrictions like not driving if you have had enough to cloud your judgment, cannabis is now generally legal for personal use, with some limitations. If you have questions about the legal implications of using or possessing marijuana, speak with a knowledgeable Harford County, MD criminal defense lawyer to learn more.

How Has Marijuana Legalization Impacted Maryland Convictions?

On July 1, 2023, recreational use of marijuana, officially called cannabis in Maryland, was legalized in the state for anyone from the age of 21 and up. The state even set up the official Maryland Cannabis Administration as a way to regulate its use. As a result, if you are of legal age, it is now legal in Maryland to have up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis in your possession. You are also legally permitted to grow up to two cannabis plants in your home and give cannabis to other people as a gift, as long as it is not in exchange for money.

Expungement of Marijuana-Related Charges

As legalization began to take hold, criminal charges for marijuana use and possession have been expunged at an increasing rate. In general, this significantly reduces the social and economic burden that a drug charge has on individuals and communities and is a step in the right direction toward criminal justice. 

Although the process for getting many cannabis convictions - particularly those for possession of small amounts - has been greatly streamlined, it does not happen automatically. If you want to get your record expunged, you need to apply and go through the regular court proceedings, which will hopefully end with a judge granting your request. While there is a desire to break down barriers to help people with past marijuana convictions get expungements, you still need to prove that you meet the criteria to be eligible.

Contact a Northern Baltimore County, MD Criminal Law Attorney

If you want to get your marijuana convictions expunged from the record, speak with a qualified Harford County, MD criminal defense lawyer to understand your options. Since legalization took effect about a year ago, the process for expungement of these crimes has become much more accessible, but you still need to go through several steps before your request can be considered. At Baltimore Legal Services, we have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate this. Call us at 858-523-8423 to schedule a free consultation and get one step closer to clearing your criminal background and eliminating all the associated consequences it brings.