Criminal Defense Lawyers

Hunterdon County Cocaine Possession Lawyers

Hunterdon County Cocaine Possession Lawyers – Your Guide to the Legal Process

Getting arrested for cocaine possession can be scary. You may be facing jail time, fines, probation, or other consequences that could seriously impact your life. But with an experienced Hunterdon County cocaine possession lawyer on your side, you can better understand the charges against you and build the strongest possible defense.

This article will walk you through the basics of cocaine possession charges in Hunterdon County – the laws, typical penalties, and how a local criminal defense attorney can help. We’ll also discuss common defenses that could potentially get your charges reduced or even dismissed.

Cocaine Possession Laws in Hunterdon County

Like all of New Jersey, Hunterdon County follows state laws that make it illegal to possess cocaine and other controlled dangerous substances (CDS) without a valid prescription. Specific cocaine crimes include:

• Simple possession – Having any amount of cocaine on you, even just trace residues. This is a 3rd degree crime if the amount is less than 1/2 ounce.
• Possession with intent to distribute – Having larger amounts that indicate plans to sell or share the drug. This is a 2nd degree crime if the amount is between 1/2 ounce and 5 ounces.
• Distribution/manufacturing – Actually making, selling, or sharing cocaine with others. This is a 1st degree crime if the amount exceeds 5 ounces.

Penalties vary based on the amount possessed and your criminal record, but can include:

• Up to 5 years in prison for simple possession
• Up to 10 years in prison for possession with intent
• Up to 20 years for distribution/manufacturing

Fines up to $150,000 are also possible. Any cocaine conviction also leads to an automatic 6-24 month driver’s license suspension.

How a Hunterdon County Cocaine Possession Lawyer Can Help

Facing cocaine charges is scary, but a local criminal defense lawyer can help make the process less intimidating while also building the strongest case for you. Specifically, an attorney can:

• Thoroughly examine the details of your arrest and charges to identify any police errors, violations of your rights, or other opportunities to get evidence thrown out.
• Negotiate with the prosecutor to get charges reduced or dismissed through plea bargains or other strategies.
• Develop defense arguments to contest the charges at trial, such as arguing the cocaine wasn’t actually yours.
• Present evidence and witnesses that support your innocence.
• Advocate for the lightest possible penalties if you are convicted. This is crucial for avoiding maximum jail time.

Having an experienced lawyer in your corner can make all the difference in how your cocaine possession case plays out. Don’t leave your fate to chance.

Common Defenses in Cocaine Possession Cases

While every case is different, some of the most common defenses against cocaine possession charges include:

Lack of possession – Argue the drugs weren’t actually yours. For example, if police found cocaine in your friend’s car, you can argue it belonged to them, not you.

Illegal search – If police didn’t have probable cause to search you, the cocaine evidence may be excluded. An attorney can review the circumstances of the search.

Improper testing – There are strict protocols for drug testing that police must follow. If these were violated, test results may be deemed unreliable.

Entrapment – Undercover cops can’t coerce you into committing a crime you otherwise wouldn’t. A lawyer can argue you were entrapped.

Medical use – In rare cases, cocaine is used medically as a local anesthetic. Having a valid prescription is a defense.

False positives – Field drug tests are fallible and can confuse legal substances like powdered sugar with cocaine. A lab test can confirm results.With an experienced local lawyer reviewing the details of your case, they can identify if any of these defenses might apply to get your charges dismissed or reduced.

What to Expect at Your First Meeting with a Lawyer

Sitting down with a Hunterdon County cocaine possession attorney for the first time can feel nerve-wracking. But a good lawyer will help put you at ease while gathering crucial information to start building your defense. Here’s what you can expect:

• They’ll assure you that everything you share is confidential. This helps you be open.
• They’ll listen closely as you explain your side of the arrest story. Don’t leave anything out.
• They’ll ask clarifying questions about the circumstances and your past record. Answer honestly.
• They’ll explain your legal options and likely outcomes. This makes the path forward clearer.
• They’ll discuss defense strategies and start collecting evidence. This lays the groundwork for your case.
• They’ll answer any questions you have. Don’t hesitate to ask anything.
• They’ll outline next steps, like court dates, document requests, etc. This keeps you informed.

Having an experienced criminal lawyer in your corner can make all the difference when facing cocaine possession charges in Hunterdon County. Don’t go it alone against the complex legal system – get skilled legal guidance and advocacy by meeting with a local attorney today.