New Jersey Drug Possession Lawyers

Protecting Your Rights And Advocating On Your Behalf

Drug possession is a crime under both federal and state drug laws. Possessing illegal controlled dangerous substances (CDS) – such as cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin and LSD – as well as the compounds used to make these drugs, is illegal in the state of New Jersey. Penalties for drug possession in New Jersey vary depending upon the type of drug, the amount of the drug, and where the offense occurred. Those charged with drug possession should not take the charge lightly; there are serious consequences if you are convicted. The experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorneys at Lomurro Law successfully represent those charged with drug possession, aggressively fighting for their rights.

New Jersey Drug Possession Laws

In New Jersey, drugs such as marijuana, heroin and cocaine are classified as CDS, and so are the compounds used to manufacture them. New Jersey classifies CDS into five “Schedules”, with the most dangerous drugs listed under Schedule I. These drugs have the greatest probability of addiction and abuse and offer no medical value. Drugs listed in schedules II through V decrease in level of dangerousness and the likelihood of abuse but increase in the level of recognized medical value.

Penalties For Drug Possession

In New Jersey, the penalties for drug possession vary depending upon the CDS that is involved and the amount. For CDS listed under schedule I, II, III, or IV, possession of any amount brings jail time of three to five years, a fine of up to $35,000, or both. Those possessing any amount of a schedule V CDS face jail time of up to 18 months, a fine of up to $15,000, or both. Possessing CDS while on a school bus, within 1,000 feet of a school bus, or on or within 1,000 feet of school property, brings 100 hours of community service if you have not been sentenced to jail time, in addition to any fines imposed.

Can I Be Charged With Possession If I Wasn’t Actually Carrying The Drugs?

Yes. Drug “possession” does not necessarily mean the individual had the drugs on their person at the time. A charge of possession includes “constructive possession” which is when an individual had access to an illegal drug even if it was not on that individual at the time of arrest. Possession charges can be brought if drugs are in a vehicle, or in close proximity to the person. The individual charged must have known the drug was a CDS and knowingly have possession or control over the drug.

Our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyers Protect The Rights Of Those Accused

A charge of drug possession is a serious charge. Don’t try and fight this in court without experienced legal counsel by your side. The accomplished criminal defense attorneys at Lomurro Law understand New Jersey’s drug possession laws and work tirelessly on your behalf to protect your rights and obtain the best possible outcome for your case. Our experienced team has more than 130 years’ experience combined and we are dedicated to helping New Jersey families. If you are facing a drug possession charge, call us to arrange a consultation to discuss your case at 732-482-9285 or online. Our staff is available to meet at our office in Freehold or by videoconference.