Drug crimes are some of the most serious crimes a person can commit in the state of New Jersey. These convictions can result in penalties that can follow a person and impact them for the rest of their life. This can include fines, jail time, and the consequences of a lifelong criminal record. When facing these situations, people can often become overwhelmed when they do not know how to defend themselves. That is why it is crucial to retain the services of an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney when facing these situations.
Federal Drug Scheduling
There are various factors that are considered when determining drug charges. This includes the substance in question. The New Jersey Drug Controlled Dangerous Substance Act categorizes drugs based on its degree of danger posed by their abuse. The schedule is as follows:
- Schedule I ― A high potential for abuse with no accepted medical use or lacks safe medically supervised usage. This can include certain opiates and heroin. Marijuana is considered a Schedule I drug although medical marijuana is legal. It is important to know recreational is still illegal.
- Schedule II ― A high potential for abuse with some accepted medical uses. This can include certain opiates as well as drugs produced with coca leaves or extractions not containing cocaine.
- Schedules III through V ― A lesser potential for abuse than Schedule I and II drugs. However, they can cause a degree of physical or psychological dependence. Schedule III can include amphetamines, while Schedule V drugs can include a limited amount of narcotic drugs such as codeine combined with non-narcotic substances.
Types of Drug Offenses in New Jersey
Common drug charges and the consequences they have are as follows:
- Possession: The charges a person can face are dependent upon the amount of the drug in their possession. Smaller amounts can lead to charges based on personal use, while larger quantities can lead to charges with intent to distribute. Simple possession can result in fines and jail time up to five years while larger possession can result in fines and up to 10 years in jail.
- Distribution: This is when a person gives a controlled substance to another party. The penalties depend on the weight of the drugs and where the crime took place. For the most severe charges, This can include up to 20 years in jail.
- Trafficking: When drugs are brought from another state, it is the most severe drug crime. Penalties 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.
