Medical Marijuana Laws in New Jersey

Laws regulating prescription drugs and medications can often be confusing. Different medications may be sold under different names, and in some cases, access to these medications may vary depending on where you live. Medical marijuana is a prime example of a substance that each state regulates differently.

Each state where medical marijuana is legal generally has different laws on how patients can access medical marijuana, how much they are able to possess at any one time, and where they are able to use it. Therefore, it may be important to understand the various medical marijuana laws in New Jersey to ensure you are not unfairly arrested or prosecuted for possessing or consuming marijuana. Speak with a capable medical marijuana attorney to learn more.

According to the medical marijuana laws applicable to New Jersey, an individual must obtain a certification from their physician to use medical marijuana, as per New Jersey Revised Statutes §24:6I-5. This certification must state that the individual has a specific medical condition that may be treated by medical marijuana, including one or more of the following:          

• Certain types of chronic pain            
• Terminal diseases, including terminal cancer           
• Migraines           
• Multiple sclerosis

The New Jersey Department of Health maintains a full list of conditions that qualify for medical marijuana.

After a patient obtains a certification from their doctor, they must apply for a medical marijuana registry identification card in accordance with N.J.R.S. §24:6I-4. To do so, patients must register online with the state’s medical marijuana program and provide basic information, such as name and address, for both themselves and their primary physician. They may also need to provide scanned photographs of themselves for identification purposes.

After an individual submits their application, the Department of Health should make a decision within 30 days. If the application is approved, the applicant should then receive their registry identification card within five days. This identification card permits patients to obtain and use medical marijuana.

The medical marijuana laws in New Jersey generally stipulate that state authorities may not assume an individual is using marijuana illegally solely because they are a medical marijuana patient. For example, under N.J.R.S. §24:6I-6, the mere fact that an individual has a medical marijuana registry identification card does not constitute probable cause to search them for illegal marijuana. Additionally, patients would not be subject to any civil or administrative penalties related to their legal use of medical marijuana.

Once a patient has a registry identification card, they may obtain medical marijuana through licensed alternative treatment centers established in accordance with N.J.R.S. §24:6I-7. These treatment centers may provide various forms of medical marijuana, including edible forms. However, according to N.J.R.S. §24:6I-7, edible forms of medical marijuana are only available to medical marijuana patients who are minors.

Currently, New Jersey has six alternative treatment centers that dispense medical marijuana. The location of each of these centers is available on the Department of Health’s website.

Many New Jersey residents who use medical marijuana may find it hard to understand the state’s medical marijuana laws. A basic grasp of these regulations, however, may be necessary to ensure that your own marijuana use remains legal. In many situations, compliance with state medical marijuana laws is critical to keeping the ability to purchase medical marijuana.

Any individual who needs help understanding medical marijuana laws in New Jersey may wish to contact a local marijuana lawyer. Qualified local attorneys could answer any questions you have and assist you with any legal issues you are facing.

If you are a medical marijuana patient in New Jersey, be sure you understand your rights. If you need help, contact a qualified New Jersey marijuana lawyer for further assistance.