A lot depends on how much marijuana he had b.c 1oz to 10lbs is considered a felony. It seems anything over an oz is considered intent to sell and is a felony. The smaller the amount the higher the chance of them reducing it to a misdemeanor . This is only a guess if it's smaller a amount maybe 2-3 oz then I would think he could avoid jail time. A lawyer is the best person to ask.He can ask the court about a legal aid or see if he be appointed when he shows up at court.

He should ask if they have youthful offender status in Ak or some program for 1st time offenders. Like the Op said he wants to try and get these charges at least reduced to a misdemeanor. Probation is most likely possible,getting stuck with a felony can have a big impact on his future. It looks better if the drugs was in one bag and not a bunch of smaller bags.The lawyer wants to argue he is just a user and not selling the drugs.