(732) 582-5076Drug crimes are very common in New Jersey, but that doesn’t mean these criminal charges should be taken lightly. New Jersey has some of the toughest drug laws in the country. The penalties for committing a drug crime—even if you are a first-time offender—are serious.
If you are facing drug charges in New Jersey, contact the experienced drug crime attorneys at The Hernandez Law Firm. We understand that your freedom is on the line, which is what motivates us to aggressively pursue a favorable resolution to your case.
What Are the Drug Laws in New Jersey?
In this state, it is illegal to possess, manufacture, and distribute controlled substances. The term “controlled substances” refers to a wide range of drugs, and dangerous substances including:
- Heroin
- Mescaline
- Peyote
- LSD
- Cocaine
- Methadone
- Opioids
- Amphetamines
- Methamphetamines
- Opium
You can face drug charges for having controlled substances in your possession, distributing controlled substances, or manufacturing controlled substances. You can also face charges for having controlled substances in your possession with the intent to sell them. It is also illegal to have certain types of drug paraphernalia in your possession, including pipes, bongs, or packaging materials.
Is Marijuana Legal in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, marijuana possession under 6 ounces is legal; however, you can still face criminal charges for distributing, manufacturing, or having possession of marijuana over 6 ounces.
Are Drug Crimes Misdemeanors or Felonies?
New Jersey does not classify crimes as misdemeanors or felonies. Instead, it classifies criminal offenses as disorderly persons offenses and indictable crimes.
The majority of drug offenses are classified as indictable crimes. The degree of the New Jersey drug crime will vary depending on the type of substance involved and the nature of the offense. For example, the possession of schedule I, II, III, or IV controlled substances, which include morphine, cocaine, heroin, and LSD, is a third-degree indictable crime. However, the possession of schedule V controlled substances such as small amounts of codeine or opium, is a fourth-degree indictable crime.
Many drug crimes involving the manufacturing or distribution of controlled substances are first- or second-degree indictable crimes.
Most drug offenses are indictable crimes. But some drug crimes are disorderly persons offenses, including the possession of 50 grams or less of marijuana.
The drug laws in New Jersey are complex. For this reason, it’s important to seek legal representation from a criminal defense attorney who can ensure you understand your criminal drug charges.
What Penalties Are Imposed On Drug Offenders in New Jersey?
A drug crime conviction can lead to serious penalties, including jail or prison time, fines, community service, and probation.
The exact penalties that you will face if convicted will vary depending on a number of factors, including your criminal record, nature of drug charge, the crime, type of controlled substance, and amount of controlled substance involved in the crime.
How A Criminal Defense Attorney Can Beat Drug Charges in New Jersey
Don’t give up hope simply because you have been charged with a drug crime. Instead, put your drug case back in the hands of the trusted dwi attorneys at The Hernandez Law Firm for help.
Our experienced attorneys have helped countless clients beat their drug charges. Some of the many strategies we have used to fight drug charges include:
- Arguing that the defendant did not have constructive possession of the controlled substances
- Dismissing evidence that was collected during an illegal search and seizure
- Challenging the results of the lab testing performed on the controlled substance
- Proving that the officer did not have reasonable suspicion to stop your car or probable cause to conduct a search
Each case is unique, so we will need to carefully review the facts of your case to determine the most effective strategy to use. Then, we will aggressively fight to secure your freedom, reduce your charges, or get your charges dismissed altogether.
Schedule A No-Cost Consultation With Our New Jersey Drug Crime Lawyers Today
Have you been charged with a drug crime in New Jersey? If so, seek legal representation from a skilled drug crime defense lawyer at The Hernandez Law Firm right away. Our attorneys are passionate about protecting the rights of the accused. Let us work tirelessly to fight your drug offense charges and reach the best possible outcome in your case. To schedule a free consultation, call our law firm at 732-286-2700 or fill out the form on our website today.