According to a new Washington State University survey, marijuana use is decreasing among teens except for those who work 11 or more hours per week. The study, conducted by  WSU College of Nursing Assistant Professor Janessa Graves, concludes that marijuana use in Washington went down significantly among 8th and 10th graders after legalization, and among 12th graders who didn't work. Regardless of what grade the students were in, those who were employed for 11 or more hours weekly, reported higher marijuana use compared to their non‑working classmates. The survey suggests that working teens may be influenced by adult co-workers who use marijuana, combined with the fact that employed teens have more disposable income than their peers. Published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, the study suggests that employers could take action by advertising and enforcing zero‑tolerance policies of adult employees providing substances or endorsing substance use to their adolescent co‑workers.

Seattle based drug defense attorney Steve Karimi explains juvenile marijuana possession laws under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.

Juvenile Possession of Marijuana Laws & Punishments

Adults in Washington can legally possess up to an ounce of marijuana; however, the law is different for teens. According to state law, no person under twenty-one years of age may possess, manufacture, sell or distribute marijuana, marijuana-infused products, or marijuana concentrates, regardless of THC concentration.

A first-time violation of this marijuana possession law will result in the loss of driving privileges for ninety days after a teen's sixteenth birthday, or ninety days after the date of the conviction. Second and third violations will result in the revocation of driving privileges until turning seventeen, or for one year from the time that the court enters the judgment. Loss of driving privileges can be harsh punishment for a juvenile, as it makes getting to work, school, and social activities difficult.

The possession of medical marijuana for those under twenty-one years of age is legal in Washington for qualified patients. A qualifying patient is defined by state law as a person who is a patient of a health care professional, a resident of the state, and has received authorization from their doctor for medical marijuana use. Medical marijuana may be authorized by health care professionals for those under eighteen, with restrictions. The juvenile's parents or guardians must agree to their use of medical marijuana, and the adult must have sole control over the substance. The parents or guardians are also required to be involved in the teen's medical treatment plan.

Contact Drug Defense Lawyer Steve Karimi

If you or a loved one is charged with a crime involving marijuana in Washington, Seattle defense attorney Steve Karimi can help. There are many lawyers in the Seattle area, but not all lawyers understand the complexities of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, and the lasting impact that drug violations can have on your future. Attorney Karimi has a proven record of successful drug crime defense. Contact the Law Offices of Steve Karimi by (206) 621-8777 for a free consultation today.