The laws surrounding drug possession, including marijuana, varies from state to state. In New Jersey, drug charges can have severe ramifications, especially if you don’t choose the right Trenton drug crimes defense attorney. With Mark Catanzaro, you can be assured that you have a strong ally on your side.
Types of Drug Crimes
The severity of the crime depends on factors including drug type and the amount in your possession. Here’s what you need to know regarding drug crimes in New Jersey:
Possession of Less Than 50 Grams of Marijuana
This is classified as a disorderly persons offense and carries with it up to six months’ prison time, up to $1,000 in fines, rehab, and loss of driving privileges.
Possession of More Than 50 Grams of Marijuana
Depending on how much marijuana you are found with, you could face an indictable fourth degree offense. If found guilty of the charge, consequences include up to 18 months in prison and up to a $15,000 fine.
Possession of Narcotics or Controlled Substances
This includes drugs such as:
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Ecstasy
- All other illegal narcotics
Even for a first offense, you could face three to five years in prison, fines ranging from $1,000 to $25,000, loss of your driver’s license, and mandatory drug education and rehabilitation programs.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Even if you don’t have actual drugs on you, simply possessing drug-related paraphernalia could subject you to criminal charges. A conviction leads to prison time for up to six months, a $500 to $1,000 fine, and a suspension of your driver’s license for up to two years.
How To Defend Against Drug Charges
The State has a high burden of proof, which is to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:
- The substances involved were indeed illegal to possess; and
- You did actually possess them.
While it may seem impossible to beat drug-related charges, there are several defense strategies that a skilled drug crimes defense attorney in Trenton can use on your behalf. After reviewing the evidence, your attorney will attempt to have any evidence suppressed that may have been unlawfully obtained. This would be the case if you were subjected to unreasonable searches or seizures. Also, it is required that police read you your Miranda Warnings at the proper time.
Contact A Trenton Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Immediately
If you’ve been charged with drug-related crimes, don’t hesitate to get in contact with a Trenton drug crimes defense attorney today. Mark Catanzaro has over 30 years of experience in defending clients with similar charges. He will fight to protection your constitutional rights and keep you out of jail. Call today!