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New Jersey Drug Distribution Charges Lawyer
Experienced Drug Distribution Charges Lawyers Fight For The Rights and Interests Of Clients Across New Jersey
An alleged drug distribution offense arises through the actions of police, either through witnessing the act itself or by the use of a confidential informant. There is usually a warrant involved in this process, which is not always the case with simple drug possession charges. Sometimes an arrest takes place because of a sting operation, while in other cases, the police claim they witnessed a deal. At Team Law, we have the experience and resources to help defend you in your drug distribution case. Every New Jersey Drug Distribution Charges Lawyer from our firm understands the severity of the situation – we are here to guide you through this process and mount an aggressive and tactical defense. Our goal is to achieve the best result possible.
Contact Team Law to schedule a free and confidential consultation today.
Facing Drug Distribution Charges And Have Questions? We Can Help, Tell Us What Happened.
New Jersey Drug Laws
In New Jersey, N.J.S.CA. 2C:35-5 prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, or dispensation of medication and controlled dangerous substances. It is also illegal to be caught in possession of controlled substances with the intent to distribute them to others. The degree of the distribution charge depends on the substance and the amount involved. Accordingly, the charges from most severe to least severe include first, second, third, or fourth degree criminal charge for distribution or intent to distribute.
Various Types of Drug Distribution Crimes
- Heroin and Cocaine Distribution: Both heroin and cocaine are subject to the same categorization under New Jersey Law. An offense involving 5 ounces or more is classified as a first-degree crime. A conviction for 1st degree distribution of heroin or cocaine is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a monetary fine of up to $500,000. In addition, a person must serve 1/3 to 1/2 of the sentence imposed before becoming eligible for parole. When the quantity involved is between 1/2 ounce and 5 ounces, this is considered to be a second-degree crime punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $150,000. Offenses involving less than 1/2 ounce are graded as third-degree crimes, resulting in a prison term of up to 5 years and up to a $75,000 fine.
- Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) Distribution: Distribution of LSD is a third-degree offense. Since LSD is a Schedule I drug and you could end up facing 3 to 5 years of prison time if convicted. You could also face a fine up to $15,000.00. Because this is a third-degree charge, it may be possible to avoid prison time, depending on your criminal history.
- Methamphetamine Distribution: Distributing methamphetamine (meth) or possession of meth with intent to distribute is considered a first-degree crime if the quantity is 5 ounces or more. If the amount is between 1/2 ounce and 5 ounces, it is considered a second-degree crime.
- Selling and Growing Marijuana: Marijuana, unlike most other drugs, can be grown in one’s own backyard, so criminal charges can occur simply for growing marijuana plants. A first-degree charge applies to marijuana distribution involving 25 pounds or more, or growing 50 or more marijuana plants. In addition to a 20-year maximum prison term, you may be hit with a $300,000 fine. For a second-degree charge, the amount of marijuana must fall between 5 pounds and 25 pounds or growth between 10 and 50 plants. Third degree charge involves between 5 grams and 1 pound. Third degree crimes are typically punishable by a 3 to 5-year prison sentence and up to $25,000 in fines. A fourth-degree charge involves marijuana distribution or possession with intent when the measured weight is less than 1 ounce. Fourth degree marijuana distribution is punishable by up to 18 months in prison.
- Prescription Medication Distribution: Distribution of any other controlled dangerous substance in Schedule I (such as benzethidine), II (such as fentanyl), III (such as amphetamines) or IV (such as Barbital) is a third-degree crime. Any Schedule V substance (such as codeine or types of opium) will usually result is a fourth-degree charge.
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If you are accused of distributing any other drug contained in Schedule I and II that is not expressly referred to in N.J.S.A. 2C: 35-5, the following applies:
- Second Degree Crime applies for more than one ounce of the drug
- Third Degree Crime applies for less than one ounce of the drug
Contact an Experienced New Jersey Drug Distribution Charges Lawyer at Team Law Today for A Free Initial Consultation to Discuss Your Legal Rights and Options
If you or a loved one is facing a drug distribution charge in New Jersey, it is imperative to retain an experienced New Jersey Drug Distribution Charges Lawyer. At Team Law, we have the resources and skills to help you secure the legal protection you require and the fight for your rights that you deserve. Our lawyers will guide you through this process and provide the strongest representation in order to achieve the best result possible. Contact Team Law for a free and confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Distribution Charges In New Jersey
Contact a qualified and experienced criminal drug distribution lawyer well-versed in criminal defense. Guilt must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt based on the evidence provided. In drug distribution cases, you do not need to display a financial benefit to be convicted of one of these drug crimes. If you get involved in another person’s drug crime and are caught simply delivering a package to another party, you may be charged with a drug crime. Furthermore, it is important to note that possession of drug packaging materials can be enough for a drug conviction. Items such as scales, measuring devices, cutting agents, baggies, and needles are subject to a charge of intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance. The attorneys at Team Law have an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system – we will help you if you are facing a potential drug crime.
In drug distribution cases, evidence of the use of a confidential informant can be pivotal. In New Jersey, the identity of an informant is to be kept secret except if that informant is a material witness to the case. Additionally, the defendant has the right to cross-examine a material witness at trial. Typically, if a drug distribution is made to an informant, this witness will be material at trial. At Team Law, our attorneys have experience with all criminal defense matters and we will maintain our client’s right to confront his or her accuser.
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