The future of medical marijuana in South Carolina

March 28, 2014 (Press-News.org) The future of medical marijuana in South Carolina

Article provided by Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A.
Visit us at http://www.wellbornlawfirm.com

As attitudes toward marijuana use have changed in the United States in recent years, many in South Carolina are now considering the future of medical marijuana in the state.

Although most South Carolinians are likely unaware, medical marijuana was actually legalized in the state in the 1980s. At the time, the Controlled Substances Therapeutic Research Act was passed, allowing marijuana to be distributed to treat specific illnesses.

Despite the law, the people of South Carolina are still unable to use marijuana for medical reasons, as the law also states that marijuana may only be obtained in accordance with federal law. As marijuana is still considered a Schedule 1 controlled substance under federal law, it has not been possible for those who could benefit from medical marijuana to use the substance in South Carolina.

South Carolina legislator proposes medical cannabis bill

Recently, Senator Tom Davis introduced legislation that would allow for the use of a certain type of cannabis.

The bill would allow physicians to prescribe cannabis oil, a substance that provides the medical benefits of marijuana without producing a high in the patient. Cannabis oil does not produce a high because most of the THC is removed. The oil is composed primarily of the other ingredient found in marijuana, CBD. THC is the component in marijuana that produces a high, while CBD is the substance that has medicinal properties.

The oil is also referred to as "Charlotte's Web," and is often used to treat children who have been diagnosed with epilepsy.

Fight marijuana charges in South Carolina

Currently, under South Carolina law, individuals may be penalized for possessing even very small quantities of marijuana. The penalties for marijuana possession vary depending on whether the person charged has previous convictions.

Upon a first offense of possession of one ounce or less of marijuana, an individual may be fined up to $200 and may be sentenced to up to 30 days in jail. Upon further convictions for marijuana possession, an individual could be fined up to $1,000 and be sent to jail for up to one year.

The penalties are much more severe for those charged with selling or trafficking marijuana in South Carolina. For instance, those charged with selling or trafficking less than 10 pounds of the substance can face felony charges. A conviction can result in up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

If you have been charged with a marijuana crime in South Carolina, you ought to take steps to protect yourself. In such cases, seeking the advice of a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney is a wise step to ensure a robust defense is established on your behalf.