What is considered as the primary consequence for misdemeanor charges of marijuana possession?

The primary consequence for misdemeanor charges of marijuana possession in North Carolina involves potential fines and/or jail time based on the amount possessed. This reflects the legal framework that categorizes marijuana possession and the penalties associated with it.

In North Carolina, possession of up to half an ounce of marijuana is typically classified as a Class 3 misdemeanor, which can lead to fines and possibly some jail time. Importantly, the specific penalties can vary depending on the amount of marijuana in possession; larger amounts could lead to more severe consequences.

This approach aims to address the varying degrees of possession and the intent behind it, allowing for a more tailored legal response. The nuances of this law track with the state's overall handling of marijuana-related offenses, whereby fines and incarceration are potential outcomes based on how much marijuana an individual is found to have.

Other options either misrepresent the severity of the consequences, such as expulsion from school, which isn't a direct consequence of a legal charge, or suggest a lack of a criminal record, which does not align with the reality of misdemeanor charges where there often is a record created.