Connecticut Lawmakers Consider Decriminalization of Marijuana

In a trend that we are seeing nationwide, lawmakers in Connecticut this week heard testimony on a bill that would decriminalize a small amount of personal marijuana. Senate Bill 349 would bring the state up to speed with several others that consider a small amount of marijuana a ticketable infraction.

While many states have legalized medicinal marijuana, some are still working on decriminalization. The term decriminalization refers to making possession of a small amount (in this case less than 1 ounce) of marijuana an infraction rather than a crime.

While the bill isn’t without opponents, numerous other states decriminalized pot as early as the 1970s. The legislation before Connecticut lawmakers would penalize those found in possession of less than one ounce with a fine. Currently, the law considers this amount to be a misdemeanor.
Until the legislation is passed, you can face up to one year in jail if caught with a small amount of weed.

For your first offense, if you are caught with a quarter ounce, under current law, you are punished similarly as if you are caught with 3 ounces. This is because the threshold for misdemeanor marijuana possession is currently 4 ounces. Anything more than 4 ounces is a felony.

While the cause has generated buzz across the country as other states consider their own marijuana legislation, don’t get caught up in the hype. A similar bill died last May when it was filibustered by a staunch opponent in a Senate committee hearing. Just over a year ago, a referendum to decriminalize less than 1 oz of marijuana passed in Massachusetts.

If you are charged with possession of marijuana under the current laws, a defense attorney is a wise choice. When faced with any criminal offense, you have the right to be defended by a lawyer.

Having handled numerous marijuana cases at all levels, I can help with yours. Contact me today to discuss the charges against you and how I might be able to help.

Connecticut Lawmakers Consider Stun Gun Law

The Connecticut state legislature is considering making it legal for the people of the state to carry stun guns for personal protection. The Taser company, located in Scottsdale Arizona, estimates 200,000 Americans already carry the devices; this law would make it legally acceptable in this state.

Currently, a taser or stun gun, is considered a weapon under state law, subject to strict regulations. Because people want to feel safe in public, many are urging lawmakers to allow the legal carry of the weapons for personal protection.

While many states have passed or are considering making it okay to carry guns in public places, the relatively less serious tasers are still causing some backlash. According to the Courant, some opposing the legislation are concerned about the potential for heart attacks caused by the weapons.
Just like firearms, tasers are considered weapons. And just like firearms, they are heavily regulated in Connecticut and across the country. Although we are guaranteed the right to bear arms by the 2nd Amendment to the Constitution, states can regulate that right, enacting laws to control when and how we are able to use and even possess those weapons.

Stories in the news of law violators being caught with guns only further fuel the public’s perception of guns and other weapons as innately dangerous. This story, for instance, from the Connecticut Post details a case involving weapons, drugs, and threatening. Cases that feature more than one law violation are automatically seen as more serious, particularly by the public at large.

When you are caught in possession of a weapon, whether it is a gun or a taser, you may be concerned about how it can affect your future. Sure you have a right to bear arms, but that right doesn’t override state laws.

If you are facing charges like carrying a dangerous weapon or unlawful discharge, both felonies, call me today. Having handled cases just like this, I am confident I can help you with yours.

Significant Crime Reduction in New Haven

A press conference held by outgoing Police Chief James Lewis indicates he is leaving New Haven a safer place. According to this article from the New Haven Register crime in the city is at an all time low thanks to a cooperative effort from police and citizens.

Not only did homicides drop from 23 in 2008 to 12 last year but shootings, aggravated assaults, larcenies, and car thefts also dropped. Chief Lewis is reported as saying, “Over 1,000 less people were victimized in 2009 than in 2008…the lowest number of crime victims in the city of New Haven in recorded history.”

The Police Chief states that much of this decline is due to a community that has said “enough is enough” and taken action in making their neighborhoods safer places to be.

In addition, traffic citations are up, leading to more handgun seizures and safer streets.

Increased police presence has a tendency to decrease the motivation for crime or at least the commission of highly visible crimes like prostitution and street corner drug deals.

While this is good for the city and its inhabitants, those accused of crime really don’t have a stake in the overall crime rate. When you are behind bars awaiting a court date, what’s happening on the streets is typically the least of your concerns.

Whether up against drug charges or a 1st degree assault case, the stress and nervousness is the same. Not knowing what to expect and just how to handle the accusations against you can be both frightening and nerve-wracking. Having a defense lawyer on your side can make a big difference.

In a town where crime is at an all time low, you can be sure that the courts will be motivated to keep it that way. Going hard on accused criminals is just one way in which the justice system hopes to discourage others from committing crimes. Being made an example of can be devastating.

If you are facing criminal charges and need legal assistance, I can help. Contact me today for a free consultation on your case.