We all know legalization will happen in the future when that day comes will all simple possession charges be dropped on everyone? Will they be swept from records as if it never happened?
that depends on many different things, like the specific wording in the bill that legalizes weed, age restrictions and the type of charges regardless, the charges on your record will be irrevalent since it will really no big deal anymore
No NO and No. People who have broken the law have broken the law. While the law is unjust but it is still the law. The government does not like to admit it was wrong. Not to mention it just sets a dangerous precedent. If they admit they were wrong to charge people next people who did time and who lost possessions to charges will want to be compensated for it. It is enough to hope that people will stop being charged for using a harmless plant. At best I would say we could hope that people who are in prison for possession charges might be released or serve reduced sentences.
I actually remember this in civics class...the dude above me is right. In the constitution, we are protected from retroactive laws, for instance, if beer were made illegal tomorrow, no one can be prosecuted for the law since it wasn't in place before.. Sadly it works at a disadvantage...the only thing that will happen is all pending cases will be dropped except maybe for some exceptional cases, but most would probably be dropped. Anything on your record now will always be on your record, unless the governor or president pardons you lol. I could be wrong, this is from memory so if anyone wants to correct me, be my guest. Also, most people currently jailed for marijuana will be in all likelihood released if it were for simple possession, while those selling probably would just get lighter sentences or just released as well.