Avoiding Legal Trouble as a Medical Marijuana Patient

 Posted on April 07, 2017 in Drug Crimes

Although the use of medical marijuana is legal in the state of Illinois, there are numerous rules and regulations that one must follow to avoid the possibility of criminal penalties. This risk remains, even for those with severe or debilitating conditions. Learn more about how to prevent legal trouble as a medical marijuana user, and what you can do if you should find yourself facing drug possession charges.

Understanding the Rules and Regulations

To qualify as a medical marijuana user in the state of Illinois, one must be a resident of the state. Further, you must have a qualifying medical condition and be at least 18 years of age. Individuals must also complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Further, you cannot be an active member of law enforcement or a firefighter, and you cannot have a commercial driver’s license (this includes licenses required for operating a school bus). Failure to meet any of these requirements could bar you from receiving your medical marijuana card.

Before you are eligible, you must first visit your doctor. They must then complete a Patient Written Certification Form and mail it in on your behalf. Veterans are the one exception. However, even they must have their medical records sent to prove they qualify for the medical marijuana program.

Examining the Qualifying Conditions

Each state with existing medical marijuana laws has a set list of conditions or symptoms that are covered. In Illinois, these are:

• AIDS/HIV,
• Cancer,
• Parkinson’s disease,
• Lupus,
• Hepatitis C,
• Severe fibromyalgia,
• Traumatic brain injury,
• Multiple sclerosis,
• Tourette’s syndrome,
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
• Crohn’s disease,
• Spinal cord disease,
• Muscular dystrophy,
• Alzheimer’s disease,
• Glaucoma,
• Cancer, and
• Seizure disorders.

Other conditions may apply, but not all are approved. Further, those that are approved must continue to follow the other rules and regulations set for medical marijuana users. These rules include obtaining medication from a qualified dispensary, possessing no more than the maximum amount (2.5 ounces, unless otherwise authorized by the Department of Public Health), and not driving with an open container or while intoxicated.

Charged with Possession? Contact Our Arlington Heights Criminal Defense Lawyer

Because the medical marijuana laws can be difficult to navigate, and because the consequences of breaking them can be so severe, it is crucial that patients know where to turn if they find themselves facing criminal drug charges. Aggressive and experienced, Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, will fight to protect your rights and will pursue the most favorable outcome possible in your case. Get the representation you deserve. Call 847-253-3400 and schedule a consultation with our Arlington Heights criminal defense lawyer.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=3503&ChapterID=35