Criminal Defense Lawyers

NJ Percocet Offenses

Dealing with Percocet Charges in New Jersey

Hey there! If you’re facing criminal charges related to Percocet in New Jersey, I know you’re probably feeling anxious and overwhelmed. As your buddy here, let me walk you through this whole thing and explain what’s going on. I’m not an attorney, but I’ll do my best to break it down in simple terms so you know what to expect.

What is Percocet Anyway?

First, let’s talk about what Percocet actually is. Percocet is a prescription pain medication that contains oxycodone – which is an opioid drug. It’s used to treat moderate to severe pain, but it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. The reason it’s so tightly controlled is because opioids like oxycodone can cause drowsiness, confusion, nausea, and even respiratory depression or death in high doses. Nothing to mess around with for sure!

Percocet Laws and Regulations in NJ

In New Jersey, Percocet is classified as a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance. That means it’s really heavily regulated under criminal law. Here are some of the main laws that apply:

• NJ Statute 2C:35-10.5 – This makes it illegal to possess Percocet without a valid prescription. Even small amounts can lead to criminal charges.
• NJ Statute 2C:35-5 – It’s a crime to sell, distribute, or dispense Percocet illegally. Harsher penalties apply for larger amounts.
• NJ Statute 2C:35-11 – Making fake Percocet pills or passing them off as real is also prohibited. Big trouble if you do this!

As you can see, New Jersey does not mess around when it comes to the illegal use of prescription painkillers like Percocet. The penalties are stiff.

Common Criminal Charges Related to Percocet

Some of the most common criminal charges involving Percocet in New Jersey include:

• Possession of Percocet without a prescription
• Possession with intent to distribute or sell Percocet
• Distribution or sale of Percocet
• Prescription forgery or fraud
• “Doctor shopping” to get extra prescriptions of Percocet
• Making or selling counterfeit Percocet pills

Prosecutors can even stack on conspiracy charges if multiple people are working together in an illegal Percocet operation. Not good news!

Penalties for Percocet Crimes in New Jersey

The possible penalties for Percocet offenses depend on the specific charges, but can include:

• 4th Degree – Up to 18 months in jail, fines up to $10,000
• 3rd Degree – 3-5 years in prison, fines up to $15,000
• 2nd Degree – 5-10 years in prison, fines up to $150,000
• 1st Degree – 10-20 years in prison, fines up to $200,000

Yikes! Other potential sentences are probation, community service, loss of driving privileges, and forfeiture of vehicles/property connected to the crime.As you can see, these criminal charges are no joke. The punishments can completely turn your life upside down.

Fighting Back Against Percocet Charges

Now, here comes the good part – how you can fight back against Percocet charges in New Jersey. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help in so many ways, like:

• Challenge whether you had a valid prescription for the Percocet
• Argue you had no intent to distribute, just personal use
• Raise entrapment if you were illegally induced to commit a crime
• Suppress evidence that was obtained illegally
• Claim misidentification if you were mistaken for someone else

An attorney may be able to get charges reduced or even dismissed by poking holes in the prosecutor’s case. But you need someone experienced specifically in prescription drug cases.

Possible Outcomes of Your Percocet Case

If you get a good lawyer on your side, here are some potential outcomes of your Percocet criminal case:

• Plea Bargain – Plead guilty to reduced charges or sentencing
• Pretrial Intervention – Complete rehab; charges dismissed
• Trial – Fight for full acquittal at trial
• Dismissal – Charges dropped if prosecutor’s case is weak

See, there are options here! With smart negotiation by an attorney, you may be able to avoid jail time and felony convictions. Don’t lose hope.

Finding the Right Percocet Defense Attorney

If you or a loved one is facing Percocet charges in New Jersey, it’s critical to find the right defense attorney. Here are some tips:

• Choose a lawyer with extensive experience specifically handling Percocet and opioid cases in NJ.
• Find someone familiar with the exact charges and penalties you’re up against.
• Select an attorney who will dig deep into the evidence and build an aggressive defense.
• Don’t go with a general practice lawyer – find a true prescription drug crimes expert.

Take the time to research and choose your attorney carefully. This is not something to handle alone. A knowledgeable lawyer can make all the difference in getting charges reduced or dismissed.I know this is an overwhelming situation, but you’re going to get through it. Lean on your support system, educate yourself on the legal process, and fight this strategically with an experienced attorney on your team. You’ve got this! And I’m always here if you need someone to talk to.