Blog
NJ Drug Possession
NJ Drug Possession Charges – A Guide for Defendants
Being charged with drug possession in New Jersey can carry severe penalties that impact your future. But having an experienced criminal defense attorney can help you fight the charges and protect your rights.
New Jersey Drug Possession Laws
New Jersey drug laws make it illegal to possess a wide range of controlled substances without a valid prescription[1]. This includes illegal drugs like:
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- LSD
- Marijuana
Possession means having physical control or the intent to control the drug. Charges can apply whether drugs are found on you, at your home, in your car, etc.
Penalties for NJ Drug Possession
Penalties for drug possession depend on the type and amount of drug involved. Potential sentences include[2]:
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Fines up to $25,000
- Driver’s license suspension
- Probation or parole
- Mandatory drug counseling or rehab
Penalties increase for repeat offenders. Possession near a school also brings enhanced penalties.
Defenses Against NJ Drug Possession
Possible defenses in a NJ drug possession case include[3]:
- Illegal search – Evidence was obtained through an unlawful search
- No possession – You did not actually or constructively possess drugs
- Lack of knowledge – You did not know drugs were present
- Entrapment – You were improperly induced to commit the crime
- Misidentified substance – The substance is not actually illegal
An experienced criminal defense lawyer can evaluate the evidence and develop defenses to challenge your charges.
The Importance of a Lawyer for Drug Possession Charges
Fighting drug possession charges in New Jersey requires in-depth knowledge of criminal law and procedure. A skilled lawyer can[4]:
- Protect your constitutional rights
- Challenge inadmissible or illegal evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or diversion programs
- Develop defenses to contest your guilt
- Present persuasive arguments to a judge or jury if you go to trial
- Advocate for minimized penalties if convicted
Without proper legal advice, you risk seriously jeopardizing your case and future.
Finding the Right NJ Drug Possession Lawyer
When searching for a lawyer for drug possession charges, look for someone who[5]:
- Focuses specifically on criminal defense
- Has extensive experience defending drug charges
- Has a track record of positive case results
- Is familiar with local prosecutors and judges
- You feel comfortable and confident working with
Don’t leave your fate to chance – hire the best lawyer you can afford.
Take Action to Protect Your Future
If you’ve been arrested for drug possession in New Jersey, it’s critical to act now. Invoke your right to remain silent, and retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. A knowledgeable attorney can start building your defense, advising you of your options, and protecting your rights.
Sources:
[1] https://rosenblumlaw.com/our-services/criminal-defense/new-jersey-drug-charges/selling-drugs/
[2] https://rosenblumlaw.com/our-services/criminal-defense/new-jersey-drug-charges/
[4] https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED303816.pdf
[5] https://www.anthonyvecchiolaw.com/drug-charge-lawyer-nj/drug-possession/
[6] https://www.csusm.edu/psychology/currentstudents/research-methods-in-human-development.pdf