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Maryland is one of 15 states that allows residents to legally use marijuana for medical purposes. Since marijuana is categorized as a Schedule I drug by the federal government, it cannot be prescribed by a physician, but those whose physicians have recommended that they use marijuana as part of treatment may legally do so in Maryland. This guide on how to get a medical marijuana prescription in Maryland will introduce you to the steps you need to take if you are a resident of Maryland and want to legally use marijuana for medical purposes.
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Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. Please contact your doctor and attorney before using the information presented here.-
Introduction
In 2003, Maryland became the ninth state to allow residents to legally use marijuana for medical purposes. Under state law, citizens who can prove that they are using marijuana for medical reasons under the advice of a licensed physician cannot be subject to a penalty of more than a $100 fine. Unlike several other states, there are no prerequisites that medical marijuana users must meet—rather, if they can prove they are using marijuana on a doctor's advice, users may be able to escape prosecution.- NOTE: This page is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as recommendation by Mahalo for any sort of illegal or unauthorized drug use. Always ensure that you are aware of all laws and risks regarding the use of marijuana before doing so. The information provided on this page was current as of March 2009 and the laws and processes described below are subject to change.
Step 1: Obtain Written Certification
Maryland's laws regarding medical marijuana use differ from those of other states. There is no medical marijuana registration program, nor is there a list of medical conditions that must be met for a person to be deemed eligible to use medical marijuana. Users of medical marijuana can argue against prosecution for possession of marijuana and marijuana paraphernalia if they are have a doctor's certificate stating that the doctor has recommended that they use marijuana for medical reasons. So, if your doctor has recommended you use marijuana to treat a medical condition, be certain to obtain written and signed documentation that implicitly states your doctor's recommendation.
Step 2: Be Aware of the Laws
- Users of medical marijuana will not receive a criminal record or jail time and may only receive a maximum penalty of a $100 fine if they are prosecuted as long as they:
- Are not in possession of more than one ounce of the drug and
- Have a doctor's certificate that states that the doctor has recommended that the patient use marijuana
- However, state laws do not implicitly state what constitutes an acceptable doctor's certification supporting medical marijuana use. In addition, there are no provisions in the law that explain how medical marijuana users can legally obtain the drug.
Conclusion
Although users who can prove that they are using marijuana on a licensed physician's advice can escape criminal prosecution in Maryland, the state laws surrounding medical marijuana are sparse. Be sure that you are aware of all the risks, benefits and possible legal ramifications surrounding marijuana use before you pursue it as a medical treatment. If you have questions or concerns about your marijuana use, speak with a medical or legal professional.
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