Can a North Carolina Marijuana Charge Ruin Your Reputation?

Simple cannabis possession in North Carolina should not lead to particularly harsh penalties. That said, criminal consequences only represent part of the overall equation. When facing these charges, you also need to consider the potential effects on your reputation. If you are convicted, how might this affect your career? What about your social relationships, your access to housing, or your rights? These are questions you might want to explore with a North Carolina cannabis defense attorney. 

Simple Possession Is a Class 3 Misdemeanor

If you live in North Carolina, you may have heard that simple marijuana possession is a Class 3 misdemeanor. You’ll face a simple possession charge if police catch you with half an ounce or less, and this typically results in no jail time. For a first offense, you’ll probably face a fine equivalent to a parking ticket. 

However, it is still a Class 3 misdemeanor. Like all misdemeanor convictions, this will go on your public criminal record. As a result, people could potentially find out that you are a cannabis user and a convicted criminal. In theory, anyone with an internet connection and a few dollars to spare could access your criminal record and see that you have been convicted of possessing weed in the past. 

Can a Simple Marijuana Conviction Affect My Employment in North Carolina?

When you go through the hiring process for a new job, your potential employer could run a criminal background check on you. When your potential employer learns that you have a Class 3 misdemeanor conviction for possessing marijuana, they may think twice about hiring you. Some employers might be willing to overlook this relatively minor offense, but it could raise red flags depending on the type of work you’re applying for. 

If your new position requires you to be sober, straight-laced, and respectable, a marijuana conviction could ruin your reputation in the eyes of your potential employer. A cannabis conviction could be particularly problematic if your new job involves driving, as your employer might worry about future DWI incidents. 

Can I Erase My Cannabis Conviction in North Carolina?

You can apply to “expunge” your cannabis conviction in North Carolina. However, long wait times may apply. In addition, expungement may only be possible if you have no other serious offenses on your record, particularly violent offenses. If this is not your first offense, it may be more difficult to expunge the conviction. 

Instead of trying to expunge your conviction later, you can simply try to fight your charges and push for an acquittal or dismissal of charges. This might be easier than you think, especially with assistance from an experienced defense attorney. 

Can a North Carolina Cannabis Defense Attorney Help Me?

A North Carolina cannabis defense attorney may be able to help if you face marijuana charges. While it is true that simple possession probably will not lead to harsh legal penalties, the reputational damage associated with a conviction could be more severe than you realize. Contact Coastal South Law today for further guidance.