My office has seen an increase in the number of Arizona State University students arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana. These arrests have led to a quite a bit of confusion as marijuana has become more and more legal across the Country. Although, in Arizona, a person can legally possess marijuana if they have a valid Arizona medical marijuana card, it is illegal for a cardholder to possess marijuana on the ASU campus.
Understanding the Law
It is hard to understand how a person can have a valid card, but because they are on one side of the street as opposed to another that is not considered “campus,” they can be charged with a very serious felony offense.
If we work as a team and we have an open line of communication, there is a possibility that my clients charged with marijuana (or even some other illegal drugs) related crimes, can participate in a diversion program. A diversion program means that after our clients successfully comply with the terms, all charges will be dismissed. If our clients have a medical marijuana card at the time of registering in the diversion program, they are permitted to continue using (medicating) marijuana as they participate in the program. I know this doesn’t make sense, but the courts have somehow agree that a person cannot be denied their right to medicate with marijuana after their arrest, assuming they have a valid prescription/recommendation.
Taking the Necessary Steps
This process can be daunting. Our lawyers would be more than happy to speak with you about your case or your child student’s case. I encourage you to read our online reviews to see how we can help protect your rights and prevent you from coming a convicted felon. Contact us now to take the first steps in defending your child’s rights.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
