Common Drug Crimes in New Jersey | What to Know

New Jersey takes drug crimes very seriously. Read on to learn more about the most common drug crimes in New Jersey and their potential consequences.

What is Federal Drug Scheduling?

Drugs are categorized by the New Jersey Drug Controlled Dangerous Substance Act in conjunction with Federal Drug Scheduling. This categorizes drugs based on the degree of danger posed by their abuse. This can have a large impact on the charges you may face. The schedule is as follows: 

  • Schedule I: These have a high potential for abuse with either no accepted medical use or lack of safe use under medical supervision. Examples can include certain opiates and heroin. While marijuana is considered a Schedule I drug, there are different rules. Medical marijuana was legalized in New Jersey in 2010 but recreational use is illegal. 
  • Schedule II: These have a high potential for abuse but have some accepted medical uses, with restrictions. This can include certain opiates and drugs produced with coca leaves or extractions not containing cocaine.
  • Schedules III through V: These have a lesser potential for abuse than Schedule I and II drugs, although usage can have a degree of physical or psychological dependence. Schedule III can include amphetamines while Schedule V drugs can include a limited quantity of narcotic drugs such as codeine combined with non-narcotic substances.

Common Drug Crimes in New Jersey

The most common drug crimes and their consequences include the following:

  • Possession: Smaller amounts of a drug can result in charges based on personal use. Larger quantities may be seen as having the intent to distribute. The consequences of simple possession can include fines and up to five years in jail while larger possession can result in fines and up to 10 years in jail.
  • Distribution: When a controlled substance is given to another party, the consequences can depend on the weight of the drugs and where it took place. These charges can result in up to 20 years in jail for severe charges.
  • Trafficking: The most severe drug crime is when drugs are brought to New Jersey from another state. Consequences can include life imprisonment without parole until the offender serves 25 years.

Contact our Firm

If you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey, you need strong legal defense. Contact the Law Office of Carl Spector for dedicated representation. With over 30 years of experience as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, he offers a unique perspective on how both sides think, and how to best approach each aspect of the case. When your future is on the line, don’t settle for less than the best possible legal representation. Contact an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who will aggressively fight for you. Call today for a free confidential consultation. Let our experience work for you.