One of the most serious crimes a person can commit in the state of New Jersey is a drug crime. These convictions can result in a criminal record and penalties that can impact a person for the rest of their life. It is because of this that those facing these situations should retain the services of an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney to protect their future.
What is the Federal Drug Schedule?
When discussing drug charges, it is important to understand the New Jersey Drug Controlled Dangerous Substances Act. This categorizes drugs based on the degree of danger posed by its abuse. The schedule is as follows:
- Schedule I ― A high potential for abuse with no accepted medical use or lacks safe medically supervised usage. This can include certain opiates and heroin. Marijuana is considered a Schedule I drug although medical marijuana is legal because recreational marijuana is still illegal.
- Schedule II ― A high potential for abuse with some accepted medical uses. This can include certain opiates and drugs produced with coca leaves or extractions not containing cocaine.
- Schedules III through V ― A lesser potential for abuse than Schedule I and II drugs, but can cause a degree of physical or psychological dependence. Schedule III can include amphetamines, while Schedule V drugs can include a limited amount of narcotic drugs such as codeine combined with non-narcotic substances.
Types of Drug Offenses in New Jersey
There are a variety of different ways a person can be in violation of New Jersey’s drug laws. Common drug crimes and the consequences of them are as follows:
- Possession: Smaller amounts of a drug can lead to charges based on personal use, while larger quantities can result in a charge of the intent to distribute. Consequences of simple possession can include fines and jail time up to five years. Consequences of larger possession can include fines and up to 10 years in jail.
- Distribution: When a person gives a controlled substance to another party. The consequences can vary depending on the type of drug, its weight, and where the crime took place. More severe charges can result in up to 20 years in jail.
- Trafficking: Buying drugs from another state and bringing them to New Jersey is the most severe drug crime. Consequences can include life imprisonment without parole until the offender serves 25 years.
Contact our Firm
If you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey, you need strong legal defense. Contact the Law Office of Carl Spector for dedicated representation. With over 30 years of experience as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, he offers a unique perspective on how both sides think, and how to best approach each aspect of the case. When your future is on the line, don’t settle for less than the best possible legal representation. Contact an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who will aggressively fight for you. Call today for a free confidential consultation. Let our experience work for you.
