Since 2008, the state of Michigan has allowed the use of medical marijuana for patients. But the burning question has continued to ensue, how does this apply to someone on probation? We know that probation departments across the state limit the use of alcohol, and other drugs while an individual is on probation, but when cannabis is medicinal, should it be applied the same? The Court of Appeals has finally recognized that the medical use of cannabis cannot be held against probationers, or even denied. 

PEOPLE OF MI V MICHAEL EUGENE THUE

Michael Thue was arrested in 2019, and ultimately placed on probation. When this occurred the probation department denied Thue the right to use Cannabis, although he held a valid medical card. Thue filed a motion, and argued this was a violation of the MMMA law passed in 2008 which states “A qualifying patient who has been issued and possesses a registry identification card is not subject to arrest, prosecution, or penalty in any manner, or denied any right or privilege, including, but not limited to, civil penalty or disciplinary action by a business or occupational or professional licensing board or bureau, for the medical use of marihuana in accordance with this act.” The Court of Appeals turned to People v Koon, and People v Latz, which both held that when a statute conflicts with the MMMA, the MMMA provides that all inconsistent acts do not apply to the medical use of Marijuana, and so long as the patient is in compliance with the MMMA, they remain immune from such prosecutions. Through their debate, the Court turned to many out of state cases, before ultimately, the Court of Appeals held under People of the State of Michigan v Michael Eugene Thue that a probationer cannot be refused their right to use Medicinal Cannabis, when they remain compliant to the rules of the MMMA. Josh Covert, of the Michigan Cannabis Lawyers stated “This is a win for the many patients Cannabis has proven to help.” If you, or someone you know, is placed on probation, and needs to ensure they may still continue the use of Cannabis while completing this process, be sure to reach out to the Michigan Cannabis Lawyers (Covert Law Firm), and allow one of us to help you through this process and ensure your rights are also not violated!

 

Written By: attorney Ashley Petriches