New Jersey Lawyers for Opioid Charges

Reputable Criminal Defense Lawyers Represent for Clients Arrested on Opioid Charges in New Jersey

New Jersey courts take a twofold approach to opioid charges.  While the penalties that apply in cases involving opioid cases can be harsh, courts also have the authority to focus on treating opiate addiction—especially for first-time offenders.  That being said, judges aren’t required to offer rehabilitative options.  You need an experienced lawyer in your corner to fight for you.

At Team Law, we have experience helping people in your position avoid the harsh penalties associated with opioid charges in New Jersey.  We work to defend your rights and build a persuasive, strong defense strategy to fight the charges.  Our lawyers take a multi-faceted approach—meaning that we both challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s case while laying out a strong case in favor of rehabilitation.

If you’re facing opioid charges, you have options.  Our defense lawyers are here to make sure you understand every available choice.  In some cases, a diversionary program might offer an alternative to conviction if you are a first offender.

It’s important to take action quickly if you have been arrested on opioid charges.  At Team Law, we are always available to talk about your case and help you understand your legal rights.  Your initial consultation with our opioid charge defense lawyers is free, so call today to speak with a lawyer you can trust.

How Are Opioids Classified for Criminal Purposes?

Opioids are a type of prescription medication.  Heroin is a type of opioid, but, as a Schedule I drug, is treated differently than most opioids.  Opioids are Schedule II controlled dangerous substances (CDS) because they do have a valid medical purpose—treating severe pain.

Examples of drugs that are classified as opioids include:

• Oxycontin
• Oxycodone
• Fentanyl
• Hydrocodone
• Vicodin
• Percocet
• Methadone
• Morphine
• Codeine

These drugs can be effective in treating serious pain, but they are also highly addictive.  Serious criminal penalties attach to illegal possession, use or distribution of opioids because of their high potential for abuse. 

Understanding the Range of New Jersey Opioid Charges

Conviction on opioid charges can lead to prison time, significant financial fines and a permanent criminal record.  Drug rehabilitation and counseling may also be a part of the punishment. 

Potential penalties for opioid charges depend upon the quantity of drugs in your possession and the type of action alleged.  Examples of opioid charges you might face in New Jersey include:

• Illegal opioid possession (four or fewer pills). Possessing four or fewer opioid pills without a prescription is a fourth-degree felony.  You could face up to 18 months in jail.

• Illegal opioid possession (five or more pills). Possessing five-99 pills is a third-degree felony, carrying up to five years in prison.  Possessing 100 or more pills is a second-degree offense that can lead to a ten-year prison sentence.

• Opioid distribution.  The penalties for opioid distribution are the same as opioid possession—punished as a second, third or fourth-degree offense depending upon the number of doses involved.

• Obtaining opioids illegally.  Obtaining opioids via fraud or forgery is a third-degree felony offense.  If you steal a prescription pad or change the quantity of the opioids prescribed, or otherwise try to obtain opioids illegally, you can go to jail for up to five years under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-13.  You might also face up to $100,000 in fines.

• Carrying pills outside their prescription bottle.  Even if you have a valid prescription for opioids, it is a disorderly persons offense to carry more than a ten-day supply of the drugs outside the prescription bottle. 

Team Law Provides Compassionate Legal Support and Advocacy for Clients Facing Opioid Charges

At Team Law, we put in the hard work necessary to build a solid defense strategy based on evidence, facts and your individual circumstances.  Elements of your defense strategy might include:

• The police lacked probable cause to search your property where the drugs were found
• Presenting evidence to show that the prosecution is unable to prove possession
• You had a valid prescription for the drugs
• You did not know that the drugs were opioids

We can also help you explore whether you are eligible to participate in a diversionary program.  These are New Jersey programs that “divert” certain first-time offenders from the justice system and into a form of supervised probation.  Depending upon the circumstances, you may be eligible to participate in:

• Pre-trial intervention
• Conditional discharge
• The New Jersey veteran’s diversion program

These programs are available to first offenders accused of non-violent, relatively low-level crimes.  If you successfully complete the program, the charges against you will be dropped and we can petition to have your arrest expunged.

Call an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer for Help Fighting New Jersey Opioid Charges Today

The opioid epidemic has already taken countless lives in the United States.  New Jersey courts do not look lightly on opioid charges.  If you are arrested for possession or distribution of opioids, or obtaining opioids illegally, you need an experienced lawyer who will fight to safeguard your rights.

At Team Law, our lawyers have over 60 years’ experience and a proven track record of successfully advocating for our clients.  Call or contact us today to schedule your free and confidential initial consultation with an experienced New Jersey defense lawyer for opioid charges.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Opioid Charges