Marijuana Offense in New York: What the Court Data Shows

According to 7,533 DCJS pretrial release records from 2019–2024, Marijuana Offense cases across 18 New York counties have an average dismissal rate of 68.3% and an average conviction rate of 31.7%.

Marijuana offenses in New York have undergone significant legal changes, including the 2021 legalization of recreational marijuana under the MRTA. This page examines what DCJS pretrial release records (2019-2024) reveal about how marijuana-related cases have been processed during this transitional period.

What Our Data Shows About Marijuana Offense Outcomes

Based on our analysis of marijuana offense cases across New York courts (DCJS pretrial release records, 2019-2024):

• Marijuana offense case volumes have shifted significantly following the 2021 legalization
• The data captures the transitional period before and after recreational marijuana legalization
• County-level variation exists in how remaining marijuana offenses are processed

View marijuana offense statistics across all New York counties

Variation Across New York

Marijuana offense patterns have changed dramatically across New York's counties since legalization. Our data captures this transition, showing how case volumes, charge types, and pretrial release patterns shifted during the 2019-2024 period. Some counties may show different transition timelines than others.

Pretrial Release Patterns

The legal landscape for marijuana in New York changed substantially during our data period. Prior to the MRTA, many marijuana offenses were misdemeanors or violations subject to bail reform provisions. Our data tracks how pretrial release patterns evolved as the legal framework shifted.

Understanding the Statistics

When reviewing marijuana offense data, keep in mind:

• Statistics reflect aggregate patterns from DCJS pretrial release records — individual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case
• County-level differences may reflect local practices, caseload volumes, and available programs
• Data covers 2019-2024, a period that includes bail reform and its subsequent amendments

Next Steps

For information about marijuana offense laws and potential penalties, consult a licensed New York attorney or visit the New York Penal Law. To explore the data, view our marijuana offense statistics by county.