Can You Get a Medical Card in Ohio with a Felony?

While Ohio voters approved recreational marijuana use in November 2023, state regulators are still finalizing the rules for recreational sales. Lawmakers are also considering changes to the law, which could delay the implementation of recreational sales. So, for the moment, only those approved by the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program can legally purchase cannabis in the state.

Given the restrictions surrounding marijuana use and the numerous other obstacles convicted felons face, you may wonder whether a felony conviction bars you from receiving a medical marijuana card in Ohio. Thankfully, it doesn’t. However, there are other requirements you must meet to legally purchase cannabis, or you could face drug possession charges.

Who Qualifies for Medical Marijuana in Ohio?

The first step in obtaining a medical marijuana card in Ohio is seeing a certified doctor. Before your doctor will add you to the Ohio Medical Marijuana Registry, you must show that you meet one of the qualifying medical conditions. Qualifying medical conditions for medical marijuana use include:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Cancer
• Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)
• Chronic or severe pain
• Crohn’s disease
• Epilepsy/seizure disorder
• Fibromyalgia
• Glaucoma
• Hepatitis C
• HIV/AIDS
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Sickle cell anemia
• Spinal cord disease or injury
• Tourette syndrome
• Traumatic brain injury
• Ulcerative colitis

If you have one of the qualifying conditions listed above, you can apply for a medical marijuana card, regardless of your legal history. However, people previously convicted of drug crimes may encounter some challenges. A lawyer can review your case and help you take the necessary steps to obtain a medical marijuana card.

Getting Your Medical Marijuana Card in Ohio

Once you have seen a doctor and confirmed that you have a qualifying medical condition, here are the steps to obtain a medical marijuana card in Ohio:

Complete Your Registration

After the physician determines your eligibility and recommends medical marijuana, they will create your profile in the Ohio Patient & Caregiver Registry. You will then receive an email prompting you to complete your registration. Log in to your profile, complete the application, and pay the registration fee. The standard cost is $50 for patients, with reduced fees available for qualifying indigent or veteran applicants.

Receive Your Medical Marijuana Card

Once your application is approved and you pay the fee, you will receive your medical marijuana card. This card is essential for the next step, as it serves as your permission to purchase, possess, and use medical marijuana in Ohio.

Visit a Dispensary

With your card in hand, you can visit any licensed medical marijuana dispensary in Ohio. The dispensary staff are trained to assist you in selecting the appropriate type and dosage of medical marijuana based on the physician’s recommendations and your specific condition. Remember to bring your government-issued ID and your medical marijuana card when you visit the dispensary.

Need Help Getting Your Medical Marijuana Card?

The Ohio drug defense attorneys at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder want everyone to have the necessary information to safely and legally purchase cannabis products. Following proper procedures to get your medical card is crucial to avoiding drug possession charges in Ohio.

If you need assistance getting your medical card or face drug possession charges, the team at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder can help.

Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.