Marijuana Possession 2nd Degree Lawyer in Tuscaloosa, AL

Being arrested for marijuana possession in Tuscaloosa—even for personal use—means you’re charged with a Class A misdemeanor. While this is the “lower level” marijuana offense in Alabama, it still carries possible jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record that can affect education, jobs, and even professional licenses.

At The Ford Firm, attorney Randal S. Ford has defended hundreds of marijuana cases. We challenge traffic stops, searches, and police statements to protect your rights and your future.

Under §13A-12-214, the prosecution must show that you had marijuana solely for personal use. This is different from first-degree possession, which applies when the amount suggests distribution or when the person has a prior conviction. While it’s a misdemeanor, the consequences can be life-changing.

Penalties for Marijuana Possession 2nd Degree

• Charge: Possession of marijuana for personal use
   
• Classification: Class A misdemeanor
   
• Possible Sentence: Up to 1 year in jail, fines as high as $6,000, probation, mandatory court costs, and possible drug treatment or testing
   
• Related Charge: Possession of drug paraphernalia (also a misdemeanor, often added alongside marijuana charges)
   

👉 Note: Alabama no longer requires automatic driver’s license suspensions for marijuana convictions, but each case depends on the court and your prior record.

• Illegal Stops & Searches: Police must have valid reasons to stop your car, extend a detention, or search your belongings. “Smell of marijuana” is often challenged.
   
• Constructive Possession: If marijuana was found in a shared space—like a car, dorm, or apartment—the State must prove you knew about it and had control over it.
   
• Testing Issues: Lab results and chain of custody can be questioned to show weak or unreliable proof.
   
• Negotiated Resolutions: Options may include diversion programs, drug court, deferred prosecution, or reducing the charge.
   
• Future Record Protection: Steering your case toward outcomes that allow expungement later on.
   

• Act Fast: Early legal action can help preserve evidence, file suppression motions, or qualify for diversion programs in Tuscaloosa County.
   
• University of Alabama Students: Many of our clients are UA students. We understand how these charges can impact housing, scholarships, and student conduct hearings.
   

📞 Call Today: (205) 454-7500
📍 Office: 705 27th Avenue, Suite A, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

What is marijuana possession in the second degree in Alabama?
It’s a charge for having marijuana strictly for your own use, under §13A-12-214. It’s the misdemeanor level of possession.

Is marijuana legal or decriminalized in Alabama?
No. Recreational marijuana is still illegal. Even small, personal-use amounts can result in a criminal case.

What happens if I get caught with marijuana in Alabama?
If the amount is for personal use, you’ll likely face a 2nd-degree possession charge. This is a Class A misdemeanor with possible jail time (up to 12 months) and fines of up to $6,000.

Is marijuana possession a misdemeanor in Alabama?
Yes. Possession in the second degree is a misdemeanor. First-degree possession is a felony, usually for larger amounts or repeat offenses.

How much weed is second-degree possession in Alabama?
The law doesn’t give a set weight. Generally, if the facts show the marijuana was for personal use, the charge is second degree.

What are the penalties for first-time weed possession in Alabama?
For a first offense, you could face jail, fines, probation, and treatment requirements. In many counties, diversion programs or dismissals may also be an option.

Will I go to jail for marijuana possession second degree?
Jail is possible, but many first-time offenders avoid it if their lawyer secures diversion, probation, or a dismissal.

Can a marijuana possession 2nd degree charge be dismissed?
Yes. Cases can be dismissed if the search was illegal, the State can’t prove possession, or if you qualify for diversion.

Do I lose my driver’s license for marijuana possession in Alabama?
Not automatically anymore. License suspensions are no longer mandatory, though other penalties can still apply.

How much is the fine for marijuana possession 2nd degree?
The fine can be up to $6,000 plus court costs, and judges may also order probation or treatment.

How long does a marijuana case take in Tuscaloosa?
It depends. Cases may resolve in weeks, or they may take months if lab testing or motions are involved.

How long does marijuana possession stay on your record in Alabama?
Unless the case is dismissed or expunged, a misdemeanor conviction stays on your record permanently.

Can I get marijuana in the second degree expunged in Alabama?
Yes, if the case was dismissed or resulted in a non-conviction. Some convictions may qualify for expungement after waiting periods.

Do I need a lawyer if it’s ‘just personal use’?
Absolutely. Even misdemeanors affect employment, scholarships, housing, and immigration.

I’m a UA student — will the University find out?
Likely yes. UA has a student conduct process that runs separately from the court system. We regularly guide students through both.

What if I was also charged with DUI or drug paraphernalia?
We handle combined DUI and drug cases and can challenge paraphernalia charges or chemical test results.

• Suppressing evidence from bad traffic stops
   
• Challenging illegal searches and seizures
   
• Fighting knowledge and possession claims
   
• Questioning lab testing and evidence handling
   
• Pursuing smart resolutions like diversion or drug court
   

• Marijuana Possession 2nd Degree
   
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
   
• DUI / Drugged Driving (THC)
   
• Minor in Possession or Underage Alcohol
   

📞 Phone: (205) 454-7500
📍 Address: 705 27th Avenue, Suite A, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Serving Tuscaloosa, Northport, University of Alabama students, and courts across Alabama.

© The Ford Firm – Randal S. Ford. All rights reserved.

Informational only. Not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.