Marijuana Trafficking Laws: A.R.S. 13-3405
Marijuana trafficking occurs when an individual transports and intends to sell marijuana illegally. According to A.R.S 13-3405, unless licensed to do so, individuals may not knowingly:
- Transport marijuana for sale.
- Import marijuana into Arizona to offer it for sale.
- Offer to transport marijuana into Arizona to offer it for sale.
- Sell marijuana.
- Transfer marijuana.
- Offer to sell or transfer marijuana.
Penalties for violations depend on the amount of marijuana involved in the offense.
Individuals who traffic marijuana with a weight of less than two pounds can be charged with a class 3 felony. First-time offenders can face incarceration of up to 8.75 years. Additionally, if multiple offenses are consolidated, and if the aggregate amount of marijuana involved is under the statutory threshold (two pounds), they may also be ordered to perform 240 hours of community restitution as a condition of probation.
Individuals who traffic marijuana with a weight of two pounds or more can be charged with a class 2 felony. First-time offenders can face incarceration of up to 12.5 years. Additionally, if multiple offenses are consolidated, and if the aggregate amount of marijuana involved equals or exceeds the statutory threshold (two pounds), they will not be eligible for suspension of sentence, probation, pardon, or release from confinement on any basis until the person has served the sentence imposed by the court, the person is eligible for release, or the sentence is commuted.
Moreover, anyone convicted of marijuana trafficking can be court-ordered to pay a fine of at least $750 or three times the value of the marijuana involved in the offense, as determined by the court. The ultimate fine amount will be whichever of the two is greater.
RIDEOUT LAW GROUP
With offices in Lake Havasu City and Scottsdale, our firm serves the entire state of Arizona, with a particular focus on criminal defense, family law, and juvenile cases.
Our goal is for the best outcome for your criminal case, which can include:
- charges that are reduced or dropped.
- top experts reviewing your case.
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At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys are able to expertly examine the evidence in your case to provide a strong strategy for argument that leads to an outcome that is most favorable to you. We have experience in all types of criminal cases for both adults and juveniles, with positive outcomes both in plea negotiations as well as jury trial settings.
Call us today for a free consultation at 480-584-3328.