NJ Prescription Drug Offenses

NJ Prescription Drug Offenses

In New Jersey, the illegal possession, distribution, and use of prescription medications carries strict criminal penalties. Prescription drug crimes are regulated under the New Jersey Controlled Substances Act and are aggressively prosecuted.

This article provides an overview of the common criminal charges related to prescription drugs in NJ. We’ll cover the specific laws, potential defenses, penalties, and outcomes for those facing accusations of illegally possessing or distributing prescription medications in New Jersey.

New Jersey Prescription Drug Laws

The main laws governing prescription drugs in New Jersey include:

NJ Statute 2C:35-10.5 – Possession of Prescription Drugs

This law makes it illegal to possess prescription medications without a valid prescription or outside of the prescribed amount. Charges and penalties vary based on the type and quantity of drug involved.

NJ Statute 2C:35-5 – Manufacturing, Distributing, Dispensing Controlled Substances

It is a crime to manufacture, distribute, dispense, or possess with intent to distribute prescription medications illegally. This includes “pill mill” doctors writing fraudulent prescriptions. Charges range from third to first degree crimes.

NJ Statute 2C:35-11 – Imitation Controlled Substances

It is illegal to create or distribute counterfeit prescription pills made to look like controlled substances. Charges depend on the type and quantity of fake medication.

Common Prescription Drug Charges in NJ

Some of the most common criminal offenses related to prescription medications in New Jersey include:

• Possession of a controlled substance
• Possession with intent to distribute
• Distribution of prescription medications
• Prescription forgery
• Doctor shopping to obtain extra prescriptions
• Prescription drug fraud

Prosecutors may also charge conspiracy if multiple people were involved in an illegal prescription drug operation.

Penalties for Prescription Drug Crimes in NJ

Prescription drug offenses in New Jersey range from third to first degree crimes with penalties including:

• 3rd Degree – Up to 5 years in prison, fines up to $25,000
• 2nd Degree – Up to 10 years in prison, fines up to $150,000
• 1st Degree – Up to 20 years in prison, fines up to $200,000

Other potential penalties include probation, loss of professional licenses, community service, mandatory drug counseling, and forfeiture of vehicles or property connected to the crime.

Defenses for Prescription Drug Charges

There are many ways an experienced criminal defense attorney can challenge prescription drug charges in New Jersey, such as:

• Invalid prescription – Argue the prescription was legitimate
• No intent to distribute – The drugs were for personal use only
• Entrapment – You were illegally induced to commit the crime
• Illegal search – Evidence was obtained in violation of your rights
• Misidentification – You are not the person who committed the crime

A knowledgeable lawyer will thoroughly examine the evidence and build the strongest defense to fight the charges.

Outcomes of Prescription Drug Cases in NJ

There are several potential resolutions for prescription drug charges in New Jersey:

• Plea Bargain – Plead guilty in exchange for reduced sentencing
• Pretrial Intervention – Avoid conviction by completing rehab and probation
• Trial – Fight for acquittal at trial if evidence is weak
• Dismissal – Prosecutors may drop charges if the case has legal issues

An experienced attorney can negotiate the best possible outcome under the circumstances of your case.

Finding a Prescription Drug Lawyer in NJ

Facing prescription drug 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, look for extensive experience handling prescription drug cases in New Jersey courts. Find someone familiar with the complex laws and science around controlled substances. Select a lawyer who will do an independent investigation of your case and build a strong defense.

Do not leave your fate to chance – prescription drug convictions can carry lasting consequences. Let an experienced attorney handle these serious allegations and achieve the best possible result in your case.

Prescription drug laws in NJ are complex. Work with a knowledgeable lawyer to protect your rights and freedom.