Criminal Defense Lawyers

NJ Juvenile Drug Distribution Defense Lawyers

Getting charged with drug distribution as a juvenile in New Jersey can be scary and have serious consequences if not properly defended. While the juvenile justice system aims to rehabilitate rather than punish, a drug distribution charge on your record can negatively impact your future education, employment, and other opportunities.This article provides an overview of juvenile drug distribution charges in NJ, potential defenses, and how an experienced juvenile defense lawyer can help build the strongest case possible.

Understanding Juvenile Drug Distribution Charges in NJ

In New Jersey, it is illegal for anyone under 18 to manufacture, distribute, dispense, or possess with intent to distribute illegal drugs including marijuana, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, prescription medications, and more.Distribution charges are more serious than simple possession and include selling, sharing, or passing drugs to others. Even giving a small amount of marijuana to a friend could lead to distribution charges.Under NJ statute 2C:35-6, adults over 18 can also face additional charges for using a minor to distribute drugs.Penalties vary based on the type and amount of drugs, but may include:

• Fines up to $100,000
• Intensive supervised probation
• Community service
• Suspension of driving privileges
• Mandatory drug counseling or rehab
• Up to 5 years in juvenile detention facility

A permanent delinquency record for distribution can negatively impact college admissions, financial aid eligibility, future employment, and more. That’s why fighting the charges is so important.

Common Defenses in Juvenile Drug Distribution Cases

There are several legal defenses that an experienced attorney can use to get charges reduced or dismissed. Some common defenses in NJ juvenile drug distribution cases include:

Lack of Evidence

Without sufficient evidence like drugs, texts, videos, or recorded conversations, the prosecution’s case can easily fall apart. An attorney will scrutinize all evidence to make sure proper procedures were followed. If anything is lacking or mishandled, the case could be dismissed.

Wrongful Accusations

Sometimes juveniles are wrongly accused out of misunderstandings, rumors, or even retaliation. An attorney can investigate the claims and introduce evidence of your good character to cast doubt on the accusations.

Entrapment

This occurs when police improperly coerce or persuade someone into committing a crime they wouldn’t normally do. This makes the charges inadmissible.

Unintentional Distribution

Sharing drugs with a friend or sibling may seem like distribution, but often there is no intent to actually sell or distribute. Demonstrating lack of intent could lead to reduced charges.

Medical Marijuana

If the drugs were legally prescribed medical marijuana, the charges may be dismissed. The attorney must prove valid medical authorization was obtained.

Finding the Right Juvenile Drug Defense Lawyer

The outcome of a juvenile drug case largely depends on the quality of legal defense. Here are tips for choosing the right lawyer:

• Find an experienced juvenile defense attorney – Look for lawyers with extensive experience specifically defending juveniles against drug charges to understand the system best.
• Select someone familiar with local courts – Each county’s prosecutors and judges handle juvenile cases differently. Local knowledge is key.
• Consider former prosecutors – Former district attorneys often have good relationships with local prosecutors and understand their strategies.
• Find someone you’re comfortable with – The lawyer-client relationship is important, so make sure you feel the attorney listens and you can be open and honest.
• Ask about legal fees – Rates and payment plans vary, so discuss costs upfront and don’t hesitate to negotiate.

What a Juvenile Drug Defense Lawyer Can Do

The right lawyer makes all the difference in getting charges reduced or dismissed. An experienced attorney will:

• Thoroughly investigate the claims and build a strong defense
• Aggressively challenge any unconstitutional police conduct
• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced or dismissed charges
• Advocate for diversion programs instead of juvenile detention
• Work to minimize long-term consequences and limit damage to your record
• Keep you informed and explain the process every step of the way

Don’t Go It Alone – Consult a Lawyer Today

Being charged with distributing drugs as a juvenile can negatively impact your future. But an experienced drug defense lawyer can often get charges reduced or dismissed and minimize consequences. Don’t wait to seek legal counsel – it’s critical to start building your defense right away. Consult with a qualified juvenile drug defense attorney in your area today to discuss your best options. With the right legal guidance, you can get through this difficult time and move forward with your life.