Potential Sentences for California Marijuana Sales

Possible Consequences for Selling Marijuana in California

Possession of marijuana and sale of marijuana are looked at very differently in the eyes of the law, and the subsequent fines/punishiments vary as well. The California Health and Safety Code §11360 prohibits a person from transporting, importing, selling, furnishing, administering, or giving away marijuana. You can be charged under the relevant section of the code if you are found attempting any one of those acts. Money does not need to change hands for you to be caught up in a violation of this law.

At Hoffman & Associates, we understand the intricacies of the California laws that cover the sale and possession of marijuana and will fight to protect your rights with a vigorous defense of the charges you face.

Potential Sentences for California Marijuana Sales

The sentencing range for conviction of selling marijuana in California is established by legislation. In each case, the sentence handed down by the judge is determined by an analysis of several different factors. Prosecution and judges will not only examine the specific facts of each case, but they will also examine a person’s criminal history and background. It is important to understand the role any previous drug charges or convictions may play in the sentencing process.

A person who has several past convictions for drug offenses, or related charges, will face a higher potential sentence in a California marijuana case than a person who has a clean criminal record. Similarly, a person who was stopped with a small amount of marijuana in California will face a lower potential sentence than a person who was carrying an excessive amount.

The typical punishments someone faces who is charged with selling, transporting, or giving away marijuana in California is potentially two to four years in California state prison as well as a fine and probation.

Aggravating Circumstances in Marijuana Cases

A variety of circumstances can increase the potential sentencing range for the sale or transport of marijuana in California. For example, selling or giving marijuana to a minor can constitute an increased sentence. If marijuana was sold or given to a minor between the ages of 14 to 18, the prison sentence will increase by 5 years. If marijuana was sold or given to a minor under 14 years of age, the prison sentence will increase by 7 years.

Reducing Circumstances for Marijuana Charges

Compared to other controlled substances, the sale of marijuana in California is looked upon more leniently by the government. For example, if you are charged with transporting or giving away up to one ounce of marijuana, California courts will likely impose a fine of $100, especially if it is a first offense. The penalties you face can vary by county, and that’s why it pays to have a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney from Hoffman & Associates representing your interests when facing charges of marijuana sales in California.

We offer reasonable rates, more than 30 years of daily courtroom experience, and a consultation to discuss the specifics of your case. Contact us today and let us get started.

Los Angeles Office
5900 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 2600
Los Angeles, California 90036
Phone: (323) 655-3900
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San Diego Office
12707 High Bluff Drive, Suite 200
San Diego, California 92130
Phone: (760) 942-0069
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I can't begin to thank Mr. Hoffman enough for his extensive efforts throughout the entire case. He went absolutely above and beyond throughout the entire process. From day one he was immediately actively pursuing ways to prevent my case from ever going to court and once that was no longer an option, actively began working on getting the case ultimately dismissed. His communication was consistent and reassuring, despite my frantic worries all the time... Micaiah Botts
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My family and I simply owe our life and future to Ron Hoffman. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond the call of duty you can't find a better lawyer than Ron. He took my case head on from the moment I called his office. I was involved in an accidental hit and run where I was unaware of the injury. Every step of the way, Ron guided me through an almost two year long investigation and court settlement process and was constantly by my side through out every crossroad... Bill Martin
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Ron Hoffman and his staff were Fantastic when dealing with such a serious issue of DUI. When I first Called Ron I was very nervous and worried for my daughter and her freedom. She had a failure to appear on top of her DUI and I knew just how bad this could be. Ron was able to immediately put me at ease and gave me the confidence that there was hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. Ron was able to get the failure to appear dismissed and also no jail time for my daughter... Claude Brown
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I have been working with Mr. Hoffman for over 11 years. I have seen first hand his genuine dedication to his clients, and how his experience, knowledge and passion have gotten clients fantastic results. He treats each of his clients as his only client, and takes the time to develop detailed strategies and defenses for each individual case. I have never hesitated to refer Mr. Hoffman to anyone who has asked me for a good Criminal Defense attorney. He is a fantastic attorney!... Neeta P.
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I had a DUI issue recently. I have never had a problem with the law as serious as this one. I did panic a bit after and knew I had to get a lawyer to help my future. I researched the Web and read the reviews for awesome DUI Lawyers. Hiring a lawyer can be intimidating. Ron's 30 years experience and step by step guidance helped me with my case. Jonie was amazing with keeping me calm. Ron Hoffman is a great lawyer and I would refer any friends or family to him... Manuel Gomez
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Ron was so accommodating and professional. With a Firm like his you wouldn't expect him to be as accessible, but he immediately returned phone calls, was easy to communicate with and was very sympathetic to my situation. He went above and beyond and was able to get a better result than I'd hoped or expected. I highly recommend Ron Hoffman and his firm. He made a difficult and anxiety fueled process bearable and made me feel safe. He is a lovely man. One does not wish to need a criminal attorney, but if you do need one, Ron's the guy to call... Teri A.
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I hate lawyers. They are hard to get a hold of, greedy and unreliable. Ron is the opposite of all these things. He deserves 6 stars, and I very much recommend him. He helped me through my case with nothing but kindness, understanding, and knowledge and eventually got it dropped. Thanks for everything Ron!... Avi Z.