Drug Offense Laws in New Jersey

If you're facing a drug offense charge, you're probably scared. A conviction could affect your freedom, job prospects, and finances. You shouldn't have to fight your charge alone. With the defense attorneys at Shapiro & Sternlieb, LLC by your side, you won't have to. We are dedicated to asserting your rights, protecting your dignity, and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

New Jersey's drug laws can be confusing and harsh. This is a guide to help you understand them better. If you have charged with a drug offense, call Shapiro & Sternlieb at (732) 617-8050 for a free consultation.

Drug Possession Charges in New Jersey

• Marijuana: Possession of fewer than 50 grams is a disorderly persons offense that carries up to 6 months in prison, a $1,000 fine and loss of driver's license. Possession of more than 50 grams is a fourth-degree indictable offense, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• Narcotics (including hallucinogens, opiates, and amphetamines): Possession is punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison, a $1,000 to $25,000 fine, loss of driver's license, and mandatory drug education and rehab.
• Paraphernalia: Possession of paraphernalia carries up to 6 months in prison and a $500 to $1,000 fine.
• Prescription drugs: Possession of unauthorized prescription drugs can be a third-degree indictable offense, punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $15,000.

Marijuana Manufacturing and Distribution Charges in New Jersey

• Less than 1 ounce: Fourth-degree indictable offense, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine up to $10,000.
• Between 1 ounce and 5 pounds: Third-degree indictable offense, punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $15,000.
• Between 5 pounds and 25 pounds: Second-degree indictable offense, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $150,000.
• More than 25 pounds: First-degree indictable offense, punishable by 10 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $200,000.

Heroin or Cocaine Manufacturing and Distribution Charges in New Jersey

• Less than half an ounce: Third-degree indictable offense, punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $15,000.
• Between half an ounce and 5 ounces: Second-degree indictable offense, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $150,000.
• More than 5 ounces: First-degree indictable offense, punishable by 10 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $200,000.

LSD or Psilocybin Manufacturing and Distributing Charges in New Jersey

• Less than 100 milligrams: Second-degree indictable offense, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $150,000.
• More than 100 milligrams: First-degree indictable offense, punishable by 10 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $200,000.

What to do if You're Arrested on a Drug Charge in New Jersey

• Stay calm: Arguing with police or fighting back could land you additional charges.
• Say nothing: When the police ask you questions, tell them you choose not to speak until a lawyer is present.
• Call Shapiro &Sternlieb: We will investigate your case, look for police errors during your arrest process, and fight for you.

Pre-Trial Intervention in New Jersey

At Shapiro & Sternlieb, we believe addiction should not be treated as a crime. Often, our clients can avoid criminal prosecution and reclaim their lives from addiction through the pre-trial intervention program. The program will get you the help you need without a jail sentence.

Changing Marijuana Laws in New Jersey

There are a pair of bills in the New Jersey State Legislature that would legalize recreational marijuana in the state and expand its medical marijuana program. The bills would also dismiss all pending cannabis charges and convictions for possessing up to five pounds.

The legislature is expected to vote on the bills in May 2019, although the vote may be delayed until the end of the year if it doesn't have the support to pass. Until these bills pass, or if they fail, it's important to treat marijuana charges seriously because of the stiff punishments they can carry.

Call Shapiro &Sternlieb Today

Shapiro &Sternlieb, LLC, will fight for you and help you obtain the best possible outcome for your case. We serve clients in Newark, Jersey City, Monmouth, Middlesex, and nearby areas of New Jersey. Call (732) 617-8050for a free case review.