NJ Drug Penalties

New Jersey Drug Penalties

Essex County Lawyer Fights Possession Charges

Although you might view most minor drug crimes as victimless crimes, New Jersey law enforcement and prosecutors do not feel the same way. The federal government’s “war on drugs” might be failing, but NJ legislators have continued to push for more severe penalties. These days, even lesser drug offenses can result in lengthy prison sentences. If you have been accused of a drug crime in the State of New Jersey, it is imperative that you seek the assistance of qualified legal counsel immediately. The sooner you hire an attorney, the sooner they can begin your defense and start working to keep you out of prison.

The attorneys at the Tormey Law Firm represent clients facing drug charges throughout Essex County, including South Orange, Bloomfield, and Nutley. The firm’s founding partner, Travis J. Tormey, used to work for two of the largest criminal defense firms in the state. Additionally, our litigation team includes a former county prosecutor who prosecuted major drug distribution cases; now he is fighting on behalf of defendants in drug cases.

Call the Tormey Law Firm

If you have been accused of a drug crime, do not hesitate to contact the experienced attorneys at the Tormey Law Firm. Call 202-654-3464 today to schedule a free consultation about your case. You can also view examples of our Successful Drug Crime Verdicts & Settlements.

Penalties for Drug Possession in Essex County, NJ

The penalties for possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) in New Jersey vary, depending upon the type and weight of drug. Some of the most common drug offenses and penalties include:

Marijuana Possession: Classified as either a disorderly persons offense or an indictable felony. Depending upon the classification, punishable by up to 18 months in jail, fine of $500–$15,000, and driver’s license suspension for 6 months–2 years.
Cocaine Possession: Indictable felony. Punishable by 3–5 years in prison, fine of $1,000–$35,000, and driver’s license suspension for 6 months–2 years.
Heroin Possession: Indictable felony. Punishable by 3–5 years in prison, fine of $1,000–$35,000, and driver’s license suspension for 6 months–2 years.

Penalties for Drug Distribution in Essex County, NJ

The penalties for drug distribution and possession of a CDS with intent to distribute also vary, depending upon the type and weight of drug:

Marijuana Distribution: Indictable felony. Punishable by 0–10 years in prison, fine of $750–$100,000, and driver’s license suspension for 6 months–2 years.
Cocaine Distribution: Indictable felony. Punishable by 3–20 years in prison, fine of $1,000–$300,000, and driver’s license suspension for 6 months–2 years.
Heroin Distribution: Indictable felony. Punishable by 3–20 years in prison, fine of $1,000–$300,000, and driver’s license suspension for 6 months–2 years.

NJ Drug Paraphernalia Penalties

New Jersey law also prohibits the use or possession of drug paraphernalia. As set forth by N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2, drug paraphernalia is a serious offense. A conviction can result in up to 6 months in jail, a fine of $500–$1,000, and a mandatory loss of driving privileges for 6 months–2 years.

NJ Diversionary Programs: PTI and Conditional Discharge

Under certain circumstances, an attorney might be able to help you avoid the most serious drug crime penalties by securing your admission into a diversionary program such as Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) or Conditional Discharge. Successful completion of a diversionary program will allow you to avoid jail time and keep a drug crime conviction off your permanent record. However, you will still be subject to a mandatory penalty of $500–$3,000, as well as a $50 laboratory charge.

Call a West Orange Drug Defense Lawyer

The experienced criminal defense lawyers at the Tormey Law Firm can fight your drug possession or distribution charges and ensure that you avoid the most serious penalties. Call 201-654-3464 to discuss your case, or email us to schedule a free consultation at our office in Newark, NJ.

Client Reviews

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