What is the maximum sentence for drug possession in Hawaii?

Under HRS § 712-1243 (Class C Felony), Hawaii drug possession carries a maximum sentence of 5 years and a maximum fine of $10,000.

Does Hawaii have a mandatory minimum for drug possession?

Hawaii does not impose a blanket mandatory minimum for simple drug possession. Specific charges or enhancements may carry their own minimums.

What factors enhance a drug possession charge in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, drug possession penalties can be enhanced by: Possession near schools or parks; Prior drug convictions.

Hawaii Drug Possession Law

Hawaii Drug Possession Defense

What you're facing under HRS § 712-1243, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to Hawaii (HI) law.

Offense Class

Class C Felony

Maximum Penalty

5 years

Maximum Fine

$10,000

Penalty Range in Hawaii

StatuteHRS § 712-1243 — Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Third Degree

Minimum Penalty1 year

Maximum Penalty5 years

Maximum Fine$10,000

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in Hawaii:

Possession near schools or parks
Prior drug convictions

Hawaii-Specific Detail

Dangerous drugs include methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and other Schedule I/II substances. Hawaii treats simple possession as a felony. Deferred acceptance of guilty plea available for first offenders.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about Hawaii drug possession law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.