New Brunswick Drug Crimes Lawyer

New Jersey attorney defends people accused of drug possession and distribution 

The prevalence of drugs in American society has led lawmakers to enact severe punishments for drug possession and distribution. Being convicted of a drug-related crime in New Jersey may cause serious problems in your personal and professional life. In addition to criminal penalties, you may lose your job, be expelled from school or experience alienation from your family and friends. The Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell has a proven record of getting charges dropped or reduced and has been successful at placing clients in rehabilitation programs in lieu of criminal sentencing. If you have been accused of committing a controlled substance-related offense, consult with a New Brunswick drug crime lawyer immediately. 

Types of drug crimes in New Jersey

The following are principal types of drug crimes in New Jersey:

• Possession of heroin, cocaine, LSD or other substances classified as the most dangerous
• Distribution of or possession with intent to sell controlled substances
• Prescription drug fraud
• Drug trafficking
• Illegal manufacture of methamphetamine or other controlled dangerous substances
• Sale of illicit drugs in a school zone 

No matter what charges you face, I have the experience and ability to develop a strong defense in pursuit of the best possible result. 

Indictable vs. nonindictable drug offenses in New Jersey

Most controlled substance crimes are indictable offenses in New Jersey. Similar to felonies in other states, they carry the toughest penalties. Exceptions are marijuana possession exceeding the legal cannabis limits but of less than 50 grams and possession of drug paraphernalia. These are charged as disorderly persons offenses, punishable by up to six months in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine.

Consequences of an indictable drug offense conviction

The specific level of indictable crime charged depends on such factors as the specific alleged misconduct, the particular controlled substance and the amount of drugs involved. Level 4, which is the lowest classification of indictable drug crime, carries a prison sentence of up to 18 months and a fine as high as $15,000. At the top of the scale are Level 1 offenses, punishable by up to 30 years behind bars and a $1 million fine. Investigation of allegedly illegal drug activity can also trigger other criminal allegations. Aggravated assault charges might be brought if a police officer claims that the suspect attempted to resist physically or to put the officer in fear of a serious bodily injury.

Legal defenses against drug charges in New Jersey

There are many potential defenses against drug charges. The evidence brought by prosecutors could be the result of entrapment or an unlawful search. Traffic stops are frequent sources of drug arrests. Often, a police officer pulls over a motorist on an unrelated issue, such as speeding or a non-functioning brake light. The police officer then asks to search the vehicle. They need probable cause to conduct a search, but, unfortunately, most drivers consent to a search without knowing they have the option to say no. If you refused to consent to the search and the police officer performed one anyway, all evidence gathered as a result might be suppressed. Moreover, if your passenger had drugs in the vehicle without your knowledge and you were arrested because drugs were found, this lack of possession on your part can be grounds for having the charges dismissed.

Steps our New Brunswick drug crimes lawyer will take to protect your rights

Once you’ve been arrested on a drug count, anything you say and do could affect the outcome of your case. As an accomplished New Brunswick criminal defense attorney, I will protect you against overbearing police interrogation tactics and start working immediately to evaluate the facts. As I gather relevant evidence, I construct a sound defense strategy aimed securing a favorable resolution. That may entail a dismissal, acquittal, charge reduction or a negotiated agreement to substitute substance abuse treatment for incarceration. 

Contact a New Jersey drug crime defense lawyer for a free consultation

The Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell in New Brunswick represents clients throughout Middlesex, Somerset and Union counties accused of criminal offenses relating to controlled substances. Please call 908-768-3837 or contact me online for your complimentary consultation.