Michigan Criminal Laws FAQs Theft CrimesAccording to Michigan State Law (Michigan Compiled Laws - MCL), Theft Crimes generally involve the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to deprive them of it, either permanently or for a significant period....

Michigan Probationers Allowed Medical Marijuana
Yea. We did that…
What it is supposed to be
On February 11, 2021, the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that judges cannot prohibit individuals on probation from using medical marijuana if they are registered patients under the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act (MMMA). This ruling underscores the legal protections afforded to medical marijuana patients and clarifies the boundaries of judicial authority concerning probation conditions.
Background of the MMMA
The journey began in 2008 when Michigan voters approved Proposal 1, known as the Michigan Compassionate Care Initiative, with a 63% majority. This initiative legalized the medical use of marijuana for patients with specific debilitating conditions, allowing them to possess up to 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana and cultivate up to 12 plants. The law aimed to provide relief to patients suffering from chronic illnesses by permitting the medical use of cannabis upon a physician’s recommendation.
The Case of Michael Thue
The case that ultimately shaped the 2021 ruling centered around Michael Thue, a registered medical marijuana patient who faced charges of assault and battery stemming from a road rage incident, to which he later entered a guilty plea.
During the sentencing phase, the judge set a probation condition that strictly forbade Thue from using marijuana, even for medical reasons.
Thue hired Komorn Law to contest this condition, arguing that it violated his rights under the MMMA, which protects registered patients from penalties related to their medical use of marijuana.
Legal Battle and Advocacy
Thue’s legal battle was marked by persistent advocacy for the rights of medical marijuana patients.
Following the rejection of his motions by both the District Court and the Grand Traverse County Circuit Court, Thue proceeded to appeal to the Michigan Court of Appeals.
Although his probation ended during the appellate process, the Court acknowledged the wider public importance of the matter and chose to hear the case.
Court of Appeals Decision
In a unanimous decision, Judges Mark J. Cavanagh, Thomas C. Cameron, and Deborah A. Servitto ruled in favor of Thue. The Court held that imposing a probation condition barring the use of medical marijuana constitutes a penalty, which is in direct conflict with the MMMA.
The Act explicitly protects registered patients from arrest, prosecution, or any penalty for their medical use of marijuana, provided they comply with possession limits and other provisions. The Court emphasized that the MMMA supersedes conflicting statutes, thereby limiting judicial discretion in imposing such probation conditions.
If your Medical Marijuana rights have been challenged and you want to fight the orders then gather your records and call our office. It’s going to cost some money to hire us. But we fight to the bitter end. 248-357-2550
Implications of the Ruling
This landmark ruling has significant implications for medical marijuana patients on probation in Michigan. Judges can no longer enforce blanket prohibitions on the use of medical marijuana for registered patients as a condition of probation. This decision reinforces the protections enshrined in the MMMA and ensures that patients are not forced to choose between compliance with probation conditions and their medically approved treatment.
Continued Advocacy and Legal Support
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of legal advocates and organizations dedicated to protecting the rights of medical marijuana patients. Attorneys specializing in cannabis law have played a crucial role in challenging restrictive policies and ensuring that patient protections are upheld in various legal contexts. Their work continues to shape the evolving landscape of medical marijuana law in Michigan and beyond.
In summary, the Michigan Court of Appeals’ decision affirms the rights of medical marijuana patients to continue their treatment without fear of legal repercussions, even while on probation. This ruling not only upholds the intent of the MMMA but also sets a precedent for how similar cases may be handled in the future, ensuring that medical needs are not overshadowed by judicial mandates.
Your Medical Marijuana Rights Challenged?
Call Our Office
Komorn Law (248) 357-2550
Other Posts
Sometimes our posts provide a general overview of things with opinionated sarcasm and dry humor by the writer to lighten the same old same old of other law sites. It does not substitute for legal advice. Anyone charged with a criminal offense should consult an attorney for specific legal guidance. BTW. True Fact: When Michael Komorn fights the justice system there is only one focus. You and your rights.
Recent

Criminal Law FAQs – Theft Crimes

Criminal Law FAQs – Domestic Violence
Michigan Criminal Laws FAQs Domestic ViolenceAccording to Michigan State Law, Domestic Violence is not a standalone criminal offense but rather a designation applied to certain crimes when the victim is a "spouse or former spouse, an individual with whom the person...
More
Criminal Law FAQs – Domestic Violence
Michigan Criminal Laws FAQs Domestic ViolenceAccording to Michigan State Law, Domestic Violence is not a standalone criminal offense but rather a designation applied to certain crimes when the victim is a "spouse or former spouse, an individual with whom the person...
Criminal Law FAQs – Assault and Battery
Michigan Criminal Laws FAQs Assault and BatteryAccording to Michigan State Law, Assault and Battery are distinct but often related offenses. There isn't one single statute that explicitly defines both terms together. Instead, their definitions have evolved through...
Other Bodily Fluid House Hearing – HB-4391- Update 5-22-25
Michigan House HearingHB-4391 Saliva Test Update 5-22-25Watch the hearing or read the summary.Click here or image below to see videoFYI: Marijuana although voted to be legalized is still classified as a controlled substance in the State of Michigan and Federally. More...
Criminal Law FAQs – Marijuana Offenses
Michigan Criminal Laws FAQs Marijuana OffensesFAQ 1: Is recreational marijuana legal in Michigan? Answer: Yes, recreational marijuana is legal for adults 21 and over in Michigan. However, there are restrictions on possession, use in public places, and driving under...
Criminal Law FAQs – Operating While Intoxicated (DUI – OWI)
Michigan Criminal Laws FAQs Drunk Driving (Operating While Intoxicated - OWI)FAQ 1: What is the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in Michigan? Answer: In Michigan, the legal BAC limit for operating a vehicle is 0.08% for individuals 21 years of age or older. For...
The Case of Cannarbor -v- The Michigan Dept of Treasury
Nice Try...This case centered on the disagreement between Cannarbor, Inc., a medical marijuana provisioning center operating in Michigan, and the Michigan Department of Treasury concerning the obligation to collect sales tax on the retail sale of medical marijuana....