NJ Possession of Drugs Lawyers

NJ Possession of Drugs Lawyers

In New Jersey, drug possession charges can wreck your life with harsh criminal penalties. Even minor offenses for personal use drugs like marijuana or cocaine can lead to fines, driver’s license suspension, and jail time if convicted.

Having an experienced New Jersey drug crime lawyer on your side is crucial to protect your rights and future. This article provides an overview of drug possession laws and defenses in NJ, and how a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can help you fight the charges.

Drug Possession Laws in New Jersey

New Jersey statutes establish criminal penalties for possessing even small amounts of illegal drugs like^[1]:

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Methamphetamine
• Ecstasy
• LSD
• Prescription drugs without a valid prescription

Charges typically depend on the type and quantity of drugs involved. The most serious drug possession charges in NJ are 1st degree crimes with lengthy prison terms.

Penalties for NJ Drug Possession

Potential penalties for drug possession convictions include^[2]:

• Jail time ranging from probation up to 20+ years in prison
• Fines from $1,000 up to $300,000
• Driver’s license suspension for up to 2 years
• Mandatory drug counseling or rehab
• Community service
• Probation requiring frequent drug testing

Penalties escalate sharply for repeat offenders.

Fighting Drug Possession Charges in NJ

Skilled New Jersey drug crime lawyers know how to build a strong defense against possession charges by^[3]:

• Filing suppression motions challenging unconstitutional vehicle stops or searches
• Contesting the validity and accuracy of drug field tests
• Disputing whether you knowingly possessed the drugs
• Verifying the weight and purity of drug samples
• Negotiating plea bargains for reduced charges
• Securing admission into pre-trial intervention to avoid conviction

An attorney thoroughly investigates every aspect of your arrest to exploit flaws in the prosecution’s case.

Don’t Delay – Hire an Attorney Now

Drug possession charges should never be taken lightly in New Jersey. Even marijuana possession can carry stiff penalties. The stakes are even higher for cocaine, heroin, meth and other controlled substances.

Having an aggressive lawyer challenge the charges could mean the difference between conviction with jail time versus getting into a rehab program. Don’t leave your fate to chance – retain a skilled drug crimes attorney immediately.

Possession of Marijuana Charges

While New Jersey has decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana, it remains illegal. Potential penalties for marijuana possession include^[4]:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Driver’s license suspension up to 2 years
• Mandatory drug counseling or classes

Penalties increase if you have prior drug convictions or possessed marijuana near a school zone. Possession of larger amounts of marijuana (over 50 grams) is a more serious 3rd or 4th degree crime.

Defenses for Marijuana Possession

Possible defenses for marijuana possession charges include^[5]:

• The marijuana belonged to someone else
• You were unaware the marijuana was there
• You had a valid medical marijuana prescription
• The marijuana was for personal use only
• The police conducted an illegal search

An experienced marijuana crimes lawyer can evaluate the evidence and build the strongest defense to avoid conviction.

Possession of Cocaine, Heroin and Other Drugs

Possession of illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, ecstasy and LSD face much stiffer penalties. Even small amounts for personal use can lead to 3-5 years in prison. Larger quantities can result in decades behind bars.

Defenses for these drug possession charges include^[6]:

• The drugs were not in your possession or control
• You did not know the illegal substance was present
• The substance found was not actually an illegal drug
• You had a lawful prescription for the drug
• The police violated your rights in the search or interrogation

Given the severe penalties, having an aggressive lawyer challenge the prosecution’s evidence and raise reasonable doubt is critical.

Prescription Drug Possession Without a Valid Prescription

It is illegal in New Jersey to possess prescription medications that were not prescribed to you. Charges depend on the type and quantity of pills involved. Even small amounts can lead to criminal prosecution.

Possible defenses include:

• The prescription was written in your name
• You had a valid prescription but did not have the bottle with you
• Someone else placed the pills in your bag or property without your knowledge
• You found the pills and were turning them into police
• You believed the pills were legal herbal or dietary supplements

Never assume possession of prescription medications without a prescription is only a minor offense. Retaining an attorney to avoid conviction is critical.

Finding the Right Drug Possession Lawyer in NJ

If you are charged with any drug possession offense in New Jersey, your freedom and future are on the line. These tips can help find the right criminal defense lawyer for your case:

• Find an attorney focused specifically on NJ drug crimes, not a general practice lawyer
• Look for extensive trial experience defending drug charges
• Ask about their success record dismissing charges or avoiding convictions
• Find someone familiar with local prosecutors and judges
• Ask if they can provide client reviews and references

Taking time to vet drug possession lawyers thoroughly gives you the best chance at the best outcome for your charges.

Act Fast to Protect Your Rights

Every day that passes after your arrest provides prosecutors more time to build a case against you. Don’t delay in seeking experienced legal representation. A knowledgeable drug possession lawyer can immediately start working on your defense.

With an aggressive strategy focused on exploiting flaws and weaknesses, many drug possession cases can ultimately be dismissed. Don’t leave anything to chance – contact a lawyer today.