Marijuana and Drugs
La. R.S. 40:966 — 14 grams of marijuana or less is a fine of not more than $100, given by summons
Small amounts are a fine. Possessing 14 grams or less of marijuana, on a first or any later conviction, is punished by a fine of not more than $100. It is enforced by a summons instead of a custodial arrest, and a person who has made good faith efforts but cannot pay may be offered installments or community service.
| More than 14 grams | Penalty |
|---|---|
| More than 14 gramsFirst conviction | PenaltyUp to $500, up to 6 months, or both |
| More than 14 gramsSecond conviction | PenaltyUp to $1,000, up to 6 months, or both |
| More than 14 gramsThird conviction | PenaltyUp to 2 years, and up to $2,500 |
| More than 14 gramsFourth or later | PenaltyUp to 8 years, up to $5,000, or both |
A marijuana conviction is not used to raise a later sentence once the person has gone 2 years from the end of the sentence without another possession conviction, a benefit given only once. Possessing two and a half pounds or more is treated as possession with intent to distribute.
For other Schedule I drugs, less than 2 grams carries up to 2 years and a fine of up to $5,000, and 2 grams or more but less than 28 grams carries 1 to 10 years.
Sources for this section (1)
- La. R.S. 40:966 — Penalty for distribution or possession with intent to distribute narcotic drugs listed in Schedule I; possession of marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids, and heroin
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Louisiana attorney.