Drug Charges
Drug charges in New Jersey can stem from possession of the smallest amount of an illegal substance to larger charges, which increase as the amount of drugs in your possession increase. Possession charges are more minimal because they assume that one person only has a small amount on them for their own personal use. If you have higher quantities of illegal substance with you, your charges will increase because it is assumed that you have an intention to either traffic or distribute drugs to others as well. New Jersey State law uses the Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS) paradigm to determine your charges and potential penalties.
A newer charge of prescription drug fraud has become increasingly more common in recent years. Since prescription drugs charges are more common, the penalties associated with it have become steeper as well. If convicted of prescription drug fraud, you could be fined up to $50,000 and sentenced to five years in jail.
No matter what type of drug charge you are up against, you will want an experienced attorney like those from The Law Offices of John F. Marshall on your side.
Drug Charges in Court
Where your case is heard depends on the type of drug charge you are facing. Your lawyers will accompany you to either the municipal court or Superior Court, depending on the severity of your violation.
The least severe drug charge is possession of a small amount of marijuana. This will be categorized as a disorderly person’s offense, which puts your case in the Bloomfield Municipal Court. Possession includes up to 50 grams of marijuana and other drug paraphernalia.
More serious charges include felony drug possession, which will be heard in the Essex County Newark Superior Court. Felony drug possession includes possession of cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, and methamphetamines in any amount. Marijuana possession over 50 grams also results in a felony drug possession charge.
The strongest drug charges of trafficking and distribution, possession with intent to distribute, prescription drug fraud, and all other severe drug violations carry heavier sentences and will be heard in the Superior Court system.
Whether your charge is minimal or severe, you should alert your attorney at the earliest possible time to ensure that they have all of the information they need to build their defense strategy.
The Law Offices of John F. Marshall
Fighting a drug charge in Bloomfield, NJ requires the work of experienced defense attorneys. The Law Offices of John F. Marshall are experienced in Essex County and know the skills and limitations of the prosecution. With over 100 years of combined experience as both prosecutors and defenders, we will provide you with the best defense for your charges. Our skill and experience combined will allow you to fight against your charges for the best possible outcome.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know has been charged with a drug violation in Bloomfield, NJ, contact us for a free initial consultation of your case. Visit us on the web or call us today.
The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall
One Gateway Center
Suite 2600
Newark, NJ 07102
973-710-1520