The State of Mississippi takes a dim view of most marijuana-related crimes.
Even though the rest of the country seems to develop more and more progressive legislation concerning marijuana possession, use, or sale, Mississippi maintains that marijuana is a drug almost like any other, and it is illegal within the state.
The state decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use, arrest and prosecution for individuals caught for distribution and sale remain the focus of most law enforcement efforts The laws concerning the amount and intent of someone with marijuana in Mississippi are structured to reflect an understanding that all drug crimes are not created equal, and that some are more serious than others.
To that end, depending on the particulars of a situation, one marijuana arrest case could vary greatly from one that initially seems very similar.
For example:

• First offense of use or possession of less than 30 grams (just over one ounce) of marijuana is a non-arrest misdemeanor with no jail time and a fine of $100-$250.
  Subsequent offenses double the first offense penalties, but more than one conviction within two years has a $250 fine and not less than five nor more than 60 days in the county jail.
  
• Possessing more than 30 grams of marijuana in Mississippi is a very serious crime indeed.
  Even possession of 31 grams is a felony, punishable by three years in prison and a $3,000 fine, and larger amounts are subject to even longer jail terms and up to $1,000,000 in fines.
  
• Selling or delivering any amount of marijuana in Mississippi is an automatic felony, and carries a number of severe penalties depending on the amount, and the location.
  Conviction of selling less than an ounce of marijuana in Mississippi may only result in a three year sentence and a $3,000 fine, but if it is sold to a minor that doubles the penalty, and if sold within 1,500 feet of a school, church, or other court-sanctioned area it doubles the penalty as well.
  
• Furthermore, any conviction for a marijuana offense in Mississippi results in a six month driver's license suspension.
  
• Possession of paraphernalia is also a misdemeanor, punishable by a $500 fine and up to and including six months in jail.
  On an interesting note, a person cannot be charged with possession of paraphernalia if they were also charged with possession of less than an ounce of marijuana.