Heroin is a huge problem in Woodbridge Township. Possession and distribution of this drug is so serious in the Township that the Woodbridge Heroin Task Force has been established. While the police and courts are sensitive to the addictive nature of this drug, they are also aware of the extreme nature of the epidemic and all of the pain and deaths which the drug has cause in the municipality. They are not playing games with those who sell or distribute heroin, nor with users.
History has shown them that relaxation in enforcement is nothing that can be condoned given the extent of this problem and this is why are so aggressive when they encounter someone in possession of heroin. The scenario is even more problematic for someone arrested for possession with intent to distribute. If you or someone you love has been charged for possession or heroin distribution in Woodbridge, you need to defend yourself if you want to avoid jail and/or years of supervision. The team of attorneys and former prosecutors at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have over 100 years of combined experience to guide you through prosecution with minimum damage. To speak to a lawyer now free of charge, call our Woodbridge Criminal Office.
Heroin Possession Attorneys in Woodbridge
Under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, heroin is considered illegal and cannot be possessed under any scenario as it is a drug that falls under Schedule I of the Controlled Dangerous Substance Act. This means that a person found to be in possession of heroin will be charged with a third degree crime. A conviction for third degree heroin possession in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 carries penalties that include between 3 and 5 years in prison. In addition, the fine that may be imposed is enhanced to $35,000 from the standard maximum fine of $15,000 that typically applies to third degree crimes under N.J.S.A. 2C:43-3. Possessing heroin also triggers a driver’s license suspension for 6 to 24 months at the time of sentencing.
Woodbridge New Jersey Heroin Distribution Attorney
Distribution or possession with intent to distribute charges are handled under a separate section of the New Jersey Criminal Code. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5, it is a third degree crime to possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin in an amount of less than one-half ounce. It is a second degree crime to possess with intent to distribute more than one-half ounce, but less than five ounces. Any amount of heroin possessed with intent to distribute that is in a quantity greater than five ounces is a crime of the first degree. The jail sentences associated with heroin distribution are staggering. A third degree offense carries with it the possibility of incarceration for between 3 and 5 years. A second degree offense carries with it the possibility of incarceration for between 5 and 10 years. Lastly, a first degree offense carries with it the possibility of incarceration for between 10 and 20 years. In addition, for a first degree offense, upon conviction, the offender will be ineligible for parole for between one-third and one-half of the sentence that is imposed at trial. As if this was not bad enough, the fines that are associated with a distribution of heroin charge are also staggering. For a third degree crime, the fine that is associated with a conviction is, in deviation from N.J.S.A. 2C:43-3, $75,000. For a second degree crime, the fine that is associated with the offense is $150,000. Lastly, for the first degree offense, the fine that is associated with a conviction, also in deviation from NJSA 2C:43-3, is $500,000.
Woodbridge Township Heroin Possession Lawyer
At the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, we have defending individuals charged with all varieties of heroin charges, including school zone and public park offenses, for decades now. Our staff of lawyers includes former prosecutors who witnessed the workings of the system from both sides and what is necessary to reach optimum outcomes in both complex and basic heroin cases. We certainly have what you need in order to preserve your freedom and protect your future. So call us anytime 24/7 to discuss your case, for assistance obtaining bail or for any other reason. The consultation is complimentary and a lawyer will be happy to assist you without obligation.
