A new study was just released in JAMA Pediatric and the results reveal marijuana use among a small group of adolescents in Washington has gone down since the legalization of recreational marijuana. Specifically, the study reveals that marijuana declined among eighth graders and tenth graders in 2012. This study was conducted with an eye toward understanding the effect that the legalization of marijuana has on the youth population of Washington, so that more comprehensive policy may be written regarding recreational marijuana laws.

This most recent study looks at data in two-year timetables. From 2014 to 2016 marijuana use among eighth graders fell nearly 2.5 percent as compared to the 2010 to 2012 period. From 2014 to 2016, marijuana use among tenth graders fell two percent as compared to 2010 to 2012. The study continues to show a downward trend in marijuana use among eighth, ninth, and tenth graders since the legalization of recreational marijuana. Interestingly, there were no reported changes to marijuana use among twelfth graders.

Legal Recreational Marijuana in Washington

Although recreational marijuana is now legal in Washington, there are still limitations on how marijuana may be purchased, who may purchase the drug, and how much may be in your possession at any one time. Even purchasing marijuana legally, any one person may not possess any more than the following:

• “One-half ounce of usable marijuana;
• Eight ounces of marijuana-infused product in solid form;
• Thirty-six ounces of marijuana-infused product in liquid form; or
• Three and one-half grams of marijuana concentrates.”

In addition, you must be 21 years or older to possess marijuana or any marijuana-infused products no matter the THC concentration. This, of course, excludes any valid patients with proper medical marijuana authorization. Any person found in possession of any amount of marijuana listed above, but less than 40 grams of marijuana, is guilty of a misdemeanor crime. However, individuals that hold any of the licenses before may be exempt from this crime so long as they are validly licensed through the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board.

• Producer license
• Processor license
• Retailer license
• Transportation license
• Marijuana research license

Contact A Seattle Drug Possession Defense Attorney

In Washington, the possession of illegal drugs is a very serious crime. As previously mentioned, anything marijuana possession over one gram, but less than 40 grams may result in a misdemeanor crime. That being said, most other drug possession crimes in Washington, including illegally possession marijuana, may lead to felony charges that result in the following penalties:

• Up to five years in jail;
• The potential to pay up to $10,000 in fines; or
• A combination of the two.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for the possession of any drugs, including marijuana, you need the help of a skilled defense attorney. Attorney Steve Karimi is a top-rated criminal defense attorney in the Seattle area. Mr. Karimi is a former King County prosecutor who has the legal insight and knowledge to protect your rights to the fullest. Contact the Law Offices of Steve Karimi today.