Many Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Ordered To Close

As recently reported in the Daily Journal, a new ordinance in Los Angeles required hundreds of medical marijuana dispensaries to close. The city attorney’s office sent out more than 430 letters to these dispensaries, stating that operations must cease. The requests to stop the ordinance from going into effect were denied by a judge. Non-compliance of this ordinance may be subject to civil fines or criminal charges.

In response to hundreds of pot shops opening up across Los Angeles, the new ordinance created strict guidelines on these dispensaries. Only dispensaries that were registered before 2007 can remain open if they are not within 1,000 feet of schools, parks, and other public gathering sites. Additionally, they must also may more than $1,000 in administrative fees.

Violating the ordinance could result in six months in county jail and a $1,000 fine. There is also a daily penalty of $2,500 for each day a non-qualified collective remains open. Also, because the city ordinance provides for cash reimbursements for pot sales, there may be felony criminal charges if it is shown that dispensaries were profiting by selling pot. Whether the city attorney will file criminal or civil charges will depend on how many dispensaries have defied the ordinance by remaining open. The larger the amount, the more likely criminal charges will be filed.

If you are faced with closure, make sure you understand your rights and the legal repercussions of your actions. With over 40 years of experience, our attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can provide you competent legal advice and representation. Call us at (888) 280-6839 or contact us on our website at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.