Colorado may be one of the most marijuana-friendly states in the country, but that doesn’t mean all marijuana-related activity is legal. The state has established strict rules about how medical marijuana can be cultivated, distributed, and sold. Failing to comply with those regulations can result in severe criminal penalties, even for individuals who believe they are operating within the law. If you are accused of illegal medical marijuana distribution, it’s important to understand what the law says, what penalties you may face, and how an experienced defense attorney can help protect your freedom.
Colorado’s medical marijuana system allows registered patients and licensed dispensaries to grow, possess, and distribute marijuana within defined limits. However, those protections apply only when all rules and regulations are followed. Distribution becomes illegal when a person:
Even in a state where marijuana use is legal, these violations are taken seriously. What might seem like a minor mistake in compliance can lead to felony charges and life-altering consequences.
The penalties for illegal marijuana distribution in Colorado depend on the amount involved, the intent to distribute, and whether the accused has prior convictions. Generally, illegal distribution is charged under Colorado Revised Statutes §18-18-406. The potential penalties include:
Additionally, individuals convicted of these offenses may face probation, community service, or mandatory drug treatment. Business owners and caregivers could also lose their licenses, property, and assets associated with marijuana operations. Because marijuana remains illegal under federal law, those accused could also face federal prosecution in certain circumstances, particularly if the alleged distribution involved crossing state lines or large-scale trafficking.
Just because you’ve been accused of illegal distribution doesn’t mean you’re guilty. There are several legal defenses that may apply depending on the facts of your case. Common defense strategies include:
Each case is different, which is why it’s critical to work with a defense attorney who understands Colorado’s marijuana laws and the nuances of both state and federal drug statutes. Even small details,such as whether you were properly licensed or how the evidence was obtained, can dramatically affect the outcome of your case.
The penalties for illegal marijuana distribution are severe, and prosecutors are often aggressive in pursuing these cases. An experienced attorney can investigate the charges, analyze the evidence, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation. This may include negotiating for reduced charges, seeking alternative sentencing options, or fighting to have the case dismissed entirely.
At Lee E. Christian Law, our medical marijuana distribution defense attorneys represent clients in Fort Collins and throughout Northern Colorado who have been accused of violating state marijuana laws. With decades of experience handling complex drug cases, attorney Lee Christian understands how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect your rights from the very start.
If you’re being investigated or have been charged with illegal marijuana distribution, it’s essential to act quickly. Do not speak to law enforcement without legal representation. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Instead, contact an attorney immediately to discuss your case confidentially and begin building your defense.
Your lawyer can help you understand the charges, review the evidence, and explain the potential outcomes of your case. Early intervention can also make it easier to negotiate with prosecutors and prevent further escalation of the charges.
Colorado’s marijuana laws are complex, and even a small mistake in compliance can lead to serious criminal consequences. If you have been accused of illegally distributing medical marijuana, you need a defense attorney who knows the law, understands the local courts, and is prepared to fight for your future.
At Lee E. Christian Law, we believe everyone deserves a strong defense. We provide aggressive, experienced legal representation to individuals facing drug-related charges across Northern Colorado. To schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about how we can help, contact us today. We will review your situation, explain your options, and work to protect your freedom and your rights every step of the way.
