New Jersey Drug Defense Attorney

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey drug crime lawyer represents clients with skill, experience, and a commitment to personalized advocacy. Drug crimes may be misdemeanors or felonies in New Jersey. In some cases, options for treatment are available. In other cases, defendants will be facing a risk of serious prison time. If you or your loved one was arrested for a drug offense, please do not hesitate to contact our New Jersey drug crime attorney today for a strictly confidential case review.

We Defend the Full Range of Drug Crimes in New Jersey

Putterman Legal is a criminal defense law firm that puts clients first. We are committed to fighting for justice for our clients. We have extensive experience handling complex drug crime cases. Along with other drug crimes in New Jersey, our criminal defense attorney can help you take on the following charges:

• Drug Possession: Possession charges are governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. Unlawful possession of controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription drugs without valid prescriptions, can be charged as indictable crimes. Even marijuana possession is still prosecuted outside of regulated, lawful use. Penalties depend on the drug schedule and the weight of the substance in question. Illegal possession of controlled dangerous substances can result in severe penalties depending on the type and amount of substance involved. A simple drug possession charge might seem minor, but without proper legal representation, it can lead to a criminal record that affects your future employment, housing, and education opportunities.
• Drug Distribution: Distribution charges fall under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5. Selling, delivering, or even possessing drugs with the intent to distribute drugs can lead to second-degree or first-degree crime charges, depending on the drug and quantity. Prosecutors often use packaging, cash, and scales as evidence of intent. In distribution cases, the penalties can be extremely serious. A person could face ten to twenty years in prison.
• Drug Manufacturing: Manufacturing offenses are also prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5. They include things like producing, compounding, or cultivating controlled dangerous substances. Depending on the amount and nature of the drug, a drug manufacturing offense could potentially be a first-degree crime offense. Operating a drug production facility carries some of the harshest penalties under New Jersey law.

Understanding Drug Crime Charges in New Jersey

New Jersey takes drug crimes seriously, with penalties ranging from minor fines to decades in prison. The severity of drug crime charges depends on several factors, including the type of substance, the quantity involved, prior criminal convictions, and whether there was intent to sell drugs.

Schedule I Drugs

Schedule I drugs are considered the most dangerous under federal and state law because they have a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use. Examples include heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. Possession or distribution of Schedule I drugs results in the most serious penalties under New Jersey drug laws.

Schedule II Drugs

Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse but have some accepted medical applications with severe restrictions. This category includes cocaine, methamphetamine, and certain prescription medications like OxyContin and fentanyl. A person caught with these substances without a valid prescription faces significant criminal charges.

Schedule III Drugs

Schedule III drugs have a moderate to low potential for physical dependence. These include anabolic steroids, ketamine, and some prescription drugs containing codeine. While the penalties may be less severe than Schedule I or Schedule II drugs, a conviction still results in a criminal record and potential jail time.

Schedule IV Drugs

Schedule IV drugs have a lower potential for abuse and include medications like Xanax, Valium, and Ambien. Possession of these substances without a lawful prescription can still lead to drug charges, particularly if there is evidence of intent to distribute drugs.

Schedule V Drug

A Schedule V drug has the lowest potential for abuse among controlled dangerous substances. These may include cough preparations with small amounts of codeine. Even with lower penalties, possession without a valid prescription remains illegal.

How New Jersey Drug Laws Impact Your Case

New Jersey drug laws are complex and constantly evolving. Recent changes to marijuana laws have decriminalized certain amounts of cannabis, but many drug crimes still carry harsh penalties. Understanding how these laws apply to your specific situation is important for building a strong defense.

Disorderly Persons Offense vs. Indictable Crimes

Not all drug charges are felonies. Some offenses are classified as disorderly persons offenses, which are similar to misdemeanors in other states. A disorderly persons offense is typically heard in municipal court and carries less severe penalties than indictable crimes.

However, most drug possession and distribution charges involving controlled dangerous substances are indictable crimes. These are heard in Superior Court and can result in state prison sentences, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Fourth Degree and Higher Charges

Drug crimes are classified by degree, with fourth degree being the least serious indictable offense and first degree being the most serious. A fourth degree charge might involve possession of small amounts of certain controlled substances or a minor drug charge with no prior record.

Higher degree charges apply when larger quantities are involved, when there is intent to distribute drugs, or when the offense occurs near schools or parks. These charges carry mandatory minimum sentences in some cases, making legal representation even more important.

Diversion Programs May Be Available in Drug Cases 

Not every New Jersey drug crime case ends in a conviction. Courts may allow certain defendants to enter diversion programs instead of facing standard penalties. Options include Pretrial Intervention (PTI), conditional discharge for minor possession charges, and specialized diversion tracks. Veterans may qualify for the Veterans Diversion Program, which addresses substance abuse and service-related challenges. Defendants with diagnosed mental health conditions may also be eligible for Mental Health Diversion. That program emphasizes treatment over punishment.

Drug Court Programs

Drug court is a specialized program designed for individuals struggling with substance abuse. Instead of traditional prosecution, participants receive treatment, counseling, and regular monitoring. Successfully completing drug court can result in reduced charges or dismissal of your case, helping you avoid a criminal conviction and the associated criminal record.

Our criminal defense lawyer can evaluate whether you qualify for drug court and guide you through the application process. This option may be available for both drug possession and some distribution charges, depending on your circumstances and criminal history.

Conditional Discharge

For first-time offenders facing certain drug charges, conditional discharge allows you to avoid a criminal conviction. If you complete the terms set by the court, including treatment, community service, and regular check-ins, the charges against you may be dismissed. This protects your criminal record and gives you a second chance.

Pretrial Intervention (PTI)

PTI is available for defendants charged with indictable drug offenses who have no prior criminal record or minimal criminal history. The program typically lasts one to three years and requires participation in counseling, drug testing, and community service. Successful completion results in dismissal of charges.

A Drug Crime May Be a Federal Criminal Charge

Most drug-related offenses in New Jersey are prosecuted at the state level. With that being said, a drug crime could be a federal offense in certain circumstances. Most often, this happens when an alleged drug trafficking and/or drug manufacturing operation crosses state lines.

The federal government has jurisdiction over cases involving large-scale distribution, importation of drugs from other countries, or drug crimes that occur on federal property. Federal drug crime charges carry mandatory minimum sentences and are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys who have significant resources.

Our law office has experience defending clients against both state and federal drug charges. We understand the differences between state and federal court procedures and know how to build an effective defense strategy for either jurisdiction.

Your Rights During a Drug Crime Investigation

When you are under investigation or arrested for drug offenses, you have constitutional rights that must be protected. Law enforcement must follow proper procedures when conducting searches, making arrests, and gathering evidence. Violations of your rights can result in evidence being suppressed and charges being reduced or dismissed.

Search and Seizure

A police officer cannot search your person, vehicle, or home without probable cause or a valid search warrant. Many drug cases are won or lost based on whether the initial search was legal. Our drug crime lawyers carefully review how evidence was obtained and file motions to suppress evidence when your rights were violated.

If you were pulled over in a traffic stop and the officer searched your vehicle without permission or probable cause, any illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia found during that search may be inadmissible in court.

Driver’s License Suspension

A drug conviction can result in suspension of your driver’s license, even if the offense did not involve driving. New Jersey law requires license suspension for certain drug crime convictions, which can last six months to two years. This penalty can significantly impact your ability to work, attend school, or care for your family.

Our defense attorneys work to minimize collateral consequences like driver’s license suspension by negotiating alternative outcomes or fighting for acquittal.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in New Jersey

The penalties for drug crimes in New Jersey vary widely based on the specific charges, the drugs involved, the quantity, and your prior criminal record. Understanding what you are facing helps you make informed decisions about your defense.

Fines and Jail Time

A disorderly persons offense for drug possession can result in up to six months in county jail and fines up to $1,000. More serious indictable charges carry much harsher penalties. A third degree drug possession charge can result in three to five years in state prison, while first degree drug distribution or manufacturing charges can carry ten to twenty years.

Criminal Record and Long-Term Consequences

A drug conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect your life for years to come. Employers, landlords, and educational institutions often conduct background checks, and a criminal record can disqualify you from opportunities. Professional licenses may be revoked or denied. You may lose your right to vote or possess firearms.

Our criminal defense attorney understands these long-term consequences and fights to protect your future by seeking dismissal, acquittal, or entry into diversion programs.

Asset Forfeiture

New Jersey law allows prosecutors to seize property connected to drug crimes. This can include vehicles used to transport drugs, cash believed to be proceeds from drug distribution, and even homes where drug manufacturing occurred. Civil asset forfeiture proceedings are separate from your criminal case and require specialized legal knowledge to challenge.

How New Jersey Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer Bonnie Putterman Can Help 

Facing a drug charge? A proactive approach is a must. These are serious criminal allegations in New Jersey. Bonnie Putterman is a defense attorney who handles possession, distribution, trafficking, and manufacturing cases. We have a record of client testimonials and strong results. When you contact us our at Atlantic County law office, you will have a chance to work with a New Jersey criminal defense attorney who can: 

• Conduct a comprehensive review and evaluation of your case;
• Investigate the drug charges, gathering evidence to support your defense; 
• Help you explore all potential options for diversion; 
• Advocate for you before New Jersey or federal prosecutors; and
• Take aggressive action to help you get the best possible results. 

Case Investigation and Evidence Review

Our drug crime attorney begins every case with a thorough investigation. We review police reports, witness statements, lab results, and all evidence the prosecution plans to use. We look for inconsistencies, procedural errors, and violations of your rights. We also conduct our own investigation, interviewing witnesses and consulting with experts when necessary.

Challenging Probable Cause and Illegal Searches

Many drug cases begin with traffic stops or searches that violate constitutional protections. If a police officer lacked probable cause to stop you or conducted a search without proper justification, we file motions to suppress evidence. When evidence is suppressed, prosecutors often cannot prove their case, leading to dismissal of charges.

Negotiating with Prosecutors

Our experienced drug crime attorneys have established relationships with prosecutors throughout New Jersey. We negotiate on your behalf to seek reduced charges, favorable plea agreements, or entry into diversion programs. Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Trial Representation

When a case goes to trial, you need defense attorneys who are prepared to fight. Our law firm has extensive trial experience in both state and federal courts. We present compelling evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue persuasively to juries. We are not afraid to take your case to trial when that is the best path forward.

Drug Crimes in New Jersey: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Contact Our New Jersey Drug Defense Attorney Today

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey drug crimes defense lawyer is standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. We handle all types of drug charges. If you were arrested for a drug-related offense, our team can help. Contact us now for a fully confidential, no obligation case review at (609) 625-8383. We defend both misdemeanor and felony drug cases throughout all of New Jersey.

Schedule your free consultation with our law office today. Call now to speak with an experienced New Jersey drug crime attorney who will listen to your story and fight for your rights.