What types of drug charges does Bhatt Law Group handle?
We handle various drug charges including possession of marijuana, possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), and manufacturing or distribution of drugs.
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Jersey City Drug Attorney
Charged with a criminal offense? We can help you. Our team of criminal defense lawyers, including former public defenders and prosecutors, have successfully helped thousands of clients fight their criminal charges. We proudly represent clients throughout New Jersey.
We proudly represent clients throughout New Jersey
New Jersey has a complicated scheme for penalizing the possession, use, and distribution of drugs or “controlled dangerous substances” (CDS). Drug charges are not only based on the type of CDS involved, but also on the amount of the substance found. Depending on the charges, conviction may result in lengthy incarceration and significant fines, among other penalties.
If you are facing drug charges, Bhatt Law Group can help. Our firm has experienced criminal defense attorneys who have helped countless people with criminal cases. Don’t hesitate to call us at (201) 798-8000 for a free initial consultation so we can begin taking steps to protect your rights.
Possession Charges
Common drug charges in New Jersey involve the possession of CDS. These offenses include:
- Possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana
This is considered a disorderly persons offense, which exposes you to 6 months of incarceration, a fine not exceeding $1,000, and driver’s license suspension of up to 6 months.
- Possession of more than 50 grams of marijuana or possession of non-marijuana related CDS
New Jersey law classifies these as indictable offenses with potential incarceration of up to 5 years and fines not exceeding $35,000.
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
This is considered a disorderly persons offense with penalties similar to those of a small amount of marijuana.
Manufacturing and Distribution Charges
Serious drug offenses in New Jersey are those that involve the manufacturing, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute CDS. These are usually considered indictable offenses with greater penalties. Similar to possession charges, manufacturing and distribution charges also depend on the amount of the substance involved. Additionally, the location of the arrest may also result in more severe penalties. If you were arrested within 500 feet of a housing project or public park, or within 1,000 feet of a school, you may face enhanced penalties even if you didn’t know you were located near these places.
The amount of the substance and the corresponding charge varies depending on the type of substance involved. For example, manufacturing or distributing marijuana weighing less than an ounce would be considered a fourth-degree offense, but if the CDS is heroin or cocaine, quantities of less than half an ounce may result in a third-degree offense. With marijuana, these charges will only result in a first-degree charge if the quantity is more than 25 pounds, but with heroin or cocaine, manufacturing or distributing more than five ounces would be enough for a first-degree offense.
Possible Defenses to Drug Charges
An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you determine whether you have any viable defenses to the drug charges you are facing. These defenses may include:
- Lack of probable cause for the initial stop and/or arrest
- Whether the search or seizure was legal
- Whether the police satisfied the requirements for a search warrant
- Whether the police satisfied chain of custody for any evidence that they seized when you were arrested
- Whether the police lab properly administered tests
Bhatt Law Group has a team of experienced criminal defense attorneys who have decades of combined experience defending people in New Jersey. We will analyze every aspect of your case and invoke all potential defenses that are available.
Call us immediately at (201) 798-8000 so we can help you mount an effective defense from the beginning of your case.
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When someone’s negligence causes you or a loved one serious injury, you deserve justice. Our team of personal injury lawyers at Bhatt Law Group is here to help you obtain the maximum available compensation for your medical costs, lost income, and other losses. We’re dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured people throughout New Jersey.
Your Criminal Defense Team
When you’ve been charged with a crime or a traffic offense in New Jersey, you need a dedicated team of lawyers who will fight your charge aggressively. At Bhatt Law Group, our criminal defense team is made up of skilled and experienced trial attorneys, including a former prosecutor, who will work hard to get you the best possible outcome for your case.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana in New Jersey?
Possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana is a disorderly persons offense, which can result in up to 6 months of incarceration, a fine not exceeding $1,000, and a driver's license suspension of up to 6 months.
What should I do if I am facing drug charges?
If you are facing drug charges, contact Bhatt Law Group at (201) 798-8000 for a free initial consultation to discuss your case and protect your rights.
What are the potential consequences of manufacturing or distributing drugs?
Manufacturing or distributing drugs is considered an indictable offense in New Jersey, with penalties varying based on the type and amount of substance involved, potentially leading to significant incarceration and fines.
Can I defend myself against drug charges?
Yes, there are various defenses available against drug charges, including lack of probable cause for arrest, legality of search and seizure, and proper administration of tests by police labs.
How does the location of an arrest affect drug charges?
If you are arrested within certain distances of schools, parks, or housing projects, you may face enhanced penalties, even if you were unaware of your proximity to these locations.
What is the process for a free consultation with Bhatt Law Group?
You can book a free consultation by calling us at (201) 798-8000, where we will discuss your case and the potential defenses available.
What experience does Bhatt Law Group have in handling drug cases?
Bhatt Law Group has a team of experienced criminal defense attorneys with decades of combined experience defending clients in New Jersey.
What are the penalties for possession of more than 50 grams of marijuana?
Possession of more than 50 grams of marijuana is classified as an indictable offense, which can lead to incarceration of up to 5 years and fines not exceeding $35,000.
What is considered drug paraphernalia in New Jersey?
Possession of drug paraphernalia is considered a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey, with penalties similar to those for possessing a small amount of marijuana.