Marijuana Laws in North Carolina: What’s Legal and What’s Not

**Marijuana Laws in North Carolina: What’s Legal and What’s Not**

**Important Notice:** This guide is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. If you have specific questions or concerns, please consult a qualified attorney.

**Key Takeaways:**

* **Medical Marijuana**: North Carolina allows the use of CBD oil and low-THC oil for medicinal purposes, but not for recreational use.
* **Decriminalization**: Possession of small amounts of marijuana has been decriminalized, but possession of larger amounts remains a felony.
* **Industrial Hemp**: North Carolina allows the cultivation of industrial hemp, but requires a license from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
* **Employment and Housing**: North Carolina law does not require employers or landlords to accommodate medical marijuana use, but some employers and landlords may be more willing to do so.
* **Driving Under the Influence**: Driving under the influence of marijuana remains a crime in North Carolina, even for medical marijuana patients.

**Step-by-Step Instructions:**

1. **Determine Eligibility**: If you are considering using medical marijuana, consult with a doctor to determine if you are eligible for a prescription.
2. **Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card**: If you are eligible, you can apply for a medical marijuana card through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
3. **Purchase Medical Marijuana**: Medical marijuana is only available through licensed dispensaries in North Carolina.
4. **Follow the Law**: Make sure to follow all relevant laws and regulations, including possession limits and driving laws.
5. **Consult an Attorney**: If you have specific questions or concerns, consult a qualified attorney.

**Frequently Asked Questions:**

* **Q: Can I grow my own medical marijuana?**
A: No, growing your own medical marijuana is not allowed in North Carolina.
* **Q: Can I use medical marijuana while driving?**
A: No, driving under the influence of marijuana remains a crime in North Carolina, even for medical marijuana patients.
* **Q: Can my employer or landlord fire me for using medical marijuana?**
A: Yes, North Carolina law does not require employers or landlords to accommodate medical marijuana use.
* **Q: Can I possess more than 1.5 ounces of marijuana?**
A: No, possession of more than 1.5 ounces of marijuana is a felony in North Carolina.
* **Q: Can I use CBD oil for recreational purposes?**
A: No, CBD oil can only be used for medicinal purposes in North Carolina.

**How to Find a North Carolina Attorney:**

* **Contact the North Carolina State Bar**: The North Carolina State Bar can provide a list of qualified attorneys in your area.
* **Check Online Directories**: Websites like Avvo and Martindale-Hubbell can help you find a qualified attorney.
* **Ask for Referrals**: Ask friends, family, or other attorneys for referrals.
* **Check Credentials**: Make sure the attorney is licensed and experienced in marijuana law.

**Legal Disclaimer:**

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. If you have specific questions or concerns, please consult a qualified attorney. The information in this guide is based on the following sources:

* [www.ncbar.org](http://www.ncbar.org)
* [www.courts.gov](http://www.courts.gov)
* [www.usa.gov/legal-aid](http://www.usa.gov/legal-aid)
* [www.lawhelp.org](http://www.lawhelp.org)

Official Resources

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