At Susan Gwinn Law, we know that while recreational marijuana is legal in Ohio, the specific rules regarding newer products like concentrates and vapes remain a legal minefield for many residents. We are here to help you navigate these complex regulations and protect your rights, so contact us if you face legal challenges.
Ohio’s Cannabis Grey Area: Why Vapes and Concentrates Carry Higher Legal Risks
The Possession Limit Discrepancy
While Ohio law allows adults to possess up to 2.5 ounces of plant material, the limit for extracts and concentrates is significantly lower at just 15 grams. This stark difference means that carrying what seems like a personal supply of wax, dabs, or vape cartridges can quickly put you over the legal limit.
Accelerated Felony Charges for Concentrates
The penalties for exceeding the limit on concentrates escalate much faster than those for flower, often leading to severe felony charges for relatively small amounts. We warn our clients that possessing just a few extra vape cartridges or grams of wax can trigger high-level trafficking or possession felonies, unlike minor flower infractions.
The Trap of Illicit Sourcing
Ohio law mandates that legal adult-use cannabis must be purchased from a licensed dispensary, yet many newer products found on the street are sourced illicitly. Possession of products that cannot be verified as compliant or purchased legally creates a dangerous grey area where you may still face criminal prosecution for illegal contraband.
OVI Risks with High-Potency Products
Using high-potency concentrates significantly increases the risk of OVI charges because Ohio’s "per se" limits for marijuana metabolites in your system are easily exceeded. We frequently defend clients who are charged with impaired driving days after consumption, simply because these concentrated products linger in the body longer than traditional flower.
Navigating Ohio's evolving marijuana laws requires experienced legal guidance, especially when dealing with the severe penalties attached to concentrates and newer cannabis products. At Susan Gwinn Law, we are dedicated to defending your constitutional rights and ensuring one mistake does not define your future. If you are facing drug-related charges, please contact our office immediately to schedule a consultation and discuss your defense strategy.