While different states have different penalties when it comes to getting caught with drugs/alcohol, here are the legal consequences for drug possession in California. They all involve either misdemeanors or felonies.

• Misdemeanor - a criminal offense defined as less serious than a felony. Usually punishable by a fine and/or community service and/or jail time.
• Felony - a more serious criminal offense than a misdemeanor. Punishable in the US by a year or more of jail time.

ALCOHOL
It's illegal for anyone under 21 to purchase or possess alcohol. If alcohol is found in your possession it is a misdemeanor. You can also lose your driver's license for a year or postpone getting your license for up to a year.

COCAINE
Cocaine possession in any amount is a felony.

HEROIN
Heroin possession in any amount is a felony.

INHALANTS
Possession of any inhalant(glue, paint, toluene, nitrite oxide) with the intention to inhale is a misdemeanor with a fine of $1,000 and up to one year in a county or juvenile jail.

LSD
Possession of LSD is a felony with a fine of $1,000 and with up to a year in jail.

MARIJUANA
If you are caught with less than 1 ounce of marijuana, clearly not for sale, it is a misdemeanor. You could get a $100 fine and up to six months in a county jail. If you are caught with more than 1 ounce, that's a felony and you could go to jail in a state or a county prison for up to a year. If you're caught with hashish you can get up to one year in jail. If marijuana is found in your car, you can lose your license.

METHAMPHETAMINES
First offense for possession of methamphetamines is a felony with a $1,000 fine or community service, or up to one year in a state or a county prison. Second offense is a $2,000 fine, or community service, or time in prison.

TOBACCO
If you're under the age of 18, first offense for possession of any tobacco products or paraphernalia is a misdemeanor with a possible fine of $50.

To learn what's true for your area, call your local law enforcement agency.

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