Cannabis Possession Ticket Cost: Fines and Fees

Cannabis Possession Ticket Cost: Quick Answer

A cannabis possession ticket usually costs $100 to $500 in states that treat small amounts as a civil infraction. The final amount can pass $1,000 after court costs, surcharges, and local fees. In states that still treat possession as a criminal misdemeanor, fines can reach $1,000 to $2,000 or more, and jail time may apply.

How Many Grams Get You a Felony for Possession?

What the Ticket Cost Includes

A citation may show a base fine, but that number is rarely the full amount owed. Courts add mandatory costs at payment or sentencing.

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Base civil penalty or criminal fine
State and county court costs
Mandatory surcharges and assessments
Local fees set by the court or city
Diversion program fees, if offered
Legal fees if you contest the charge

Typical Cost by Charge Type

Civil infraction for a small amount: $25 to $500 base fine. Total often lands between $100 and $750 after fees.
Misdemeanor possession: $500 to $2,000 base fine. Total can exceed $3,000 with court costs and defense fees.
Diversion or conditional dismissal: $100 to $500 program fee plus court costs. The charge may be dismissed after completion.

These ranges are general. The amount and the charge class in your state set the real numbers.

Read the citation code and listed amount. Note the statute number, fine amount, and court date.
Check the state fine schedule. Use the state court or legislature site to find the base penalty for that amount and charge class.
Add mandatory court costs. Ask the court clerk which fees apply, including surcharges and local assessments.
Ask about diversion. If the court offers a program, request the full fee and completion rules.
Budget for legal help. A local cannabis attorney can quote a flat fee before you decide to contest.

What Can Raise or Lower the Cost

Amount possessed and the charge class
Prior cannabis convictions
Possession near a school or other protected zone
Medical cannabis patient status, which may provide a defense in some states
Completion of a diversion program
On-time payment or an approved payment plan

Payment and Deadline Basics

Pay or appear by the date on the citation. A missed date can add a failure-to-appear fee or warrant in some courts. Ask about payment plans or community service if you cannot pay in full. Keep a receipt for every payment.

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This guide is general information, not legal advice. Check your state court rules or speak with a local attorney for your case.