Is Marijuana Legal Yet in New Jersey?

Status of Marijuana Legalization in New Jersey

On Monday, November 26, 2018, a New Jersey Legislative Committee approved a bill to regulate, tax, and eventually legalize marijuana.  This bill is now going to be presented to both the Assembly and Senate to determine if it will be sent to the Governor.

What Does this Mean for Marijuana Convictions?

If the legal marijuana bill passes, it will legalize possession and personal use of up to one ounce or less of marijuana for individuals of at least twenty-one (21) years of age.  The current proposed tax on marijuana would be capped at 12%.  Furthermore, the bill would allow for an expedited expungement of anyone convicted of a possession of marijuana offense.  Within six (6) months of the passage of the bill, the Administrative office of the Courts would have to create an electronic system that would allow for these expedited expungements to be filed.

How Does this Affect My Current Marijuana Case?

Municipal Court Prosecutors are still being instructed to use their discretion when processing marijuana offenses.  This means that each individual Prosecutor will determine whether to continue processing these cases, adjourn them until the marijuana law is placed into effect, or downgrade them to local ordinances. If you are charged with a marijuana offense, the lawyers at Rosenberg | Perry & Associates can help you secure a favorable resolution.