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NJ New Jersey Heroin Offense Defense Lawyers
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NJ Heroin Offense Defense Lawyers
In New Jersey, heroin charges are aggressively prosecuted even as the opioid epidemic continues to impact communities. Possession, distribution, and other heroin crimes can lead to severe criminal penalties that devastate lives.
Having an experienced New Jersey heroin defense lawyer can make all the difference in these cases. This article explains heroin laws in NJ, potential charges, sentencing, defenses, and finding a dedicated lawyer to protect your rights.
Heroin Laws in New Jersey
As an illegal Schedule I narcotic, heroin is strictly controlled under the New Jersey Controlled Substances Act. The main criminal statutes related to heroin include:
- N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5 – Manufacturing, distributing, dispensing heroin
- N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 – Possession, use, being under influence of heroin
- N.J.S.A. 2C:35-11 – Imitation heroin offenses
Penalties depend on the amount of heroin involved and vary from third to first degree crimes. Even small amounts like 5 bags can lead to criminal charges.
Common Heroin Charges in New Jersey
Some of the most common criminal charges related to heroin in NJ include:
- Possession of heroin
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Distribution of heroin
- Drug manufacturing
- Maintaining a drug production facility
- Conspiracy / Leader of a narcotics trafficking network
Prosecutors may stack multiple charges with severe penalties in heroin cases.
Penalties for Heroin Crimes in NJ
Like all drug crimes, heroin offenses in New Jersey range from 3rd degree felonies to 1st degree crimes with penalties including:
- 3rd Degree – 3-5 years in prison, fines up to $25,000
- 2nd Degree – 5-10 years in prison, fines up to $150,000
- 1st Degree – 10-20 years in prison, fines up to $200,000
Other potential sentences include probation, community service, mandatory drug counseling, and driver’s license suspension. Charges like distribution within 1,000 feet of a school or park have enhanced penalties.
Defending Against Heroin Charges in NJ
There are many ways an experienced criminal defense lawyer can fight heroin charges, including:
- Illegal search resulting in discovery of heroin
- Entrapment by undercover officers
- Lack of intent to distribute
- No knowledge heroin was present
- Insufficient evidence linking you to the drugs
An attorney may be able to get charges reduced or dismissed by challenging the investigation tactics and evidence collection.
Outcomes of Heroin Cases in New Jersey
There are several ways a heroin possession or distribution case might resolve, including:
- Plea bargain – Plead to lesser charges in exchange for lighter sentencing
- Diversion program – Enter rehab to avoid a criminal conviction
- Trial – Fight for acquittal if evidence is weak or there are legal issues
- Dismissal – Get charges dropped if prosecutor’s case has problems
An experienced heroin crimes lawyer will seek the best possible outcome under the circumstances.
Finding a Heroin Defense Attorney in NJ
Facing heroin charges in New Jersey can be overwhelming. But with an aggressive criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can protect your future.
When choosing an attorney, it is critical to find someone with extensive experience defending heroin cases in New Jersey courts. Look for a lawyer who understands heroin addiction and the science of opioids. Select someone who will thoroughly analyze the prosecution’s evidence against you and build a strong defense.
Never leave your fate to chance with inexperienced counsel. Let a dedicated heroin crimes lawyer fight to protect your rights and freedom.
Heroin laws are complex, but an expert attorney can help avoid the severe penalties. Work with an experienced NJ lawyer to fight heroin charges.