Area of Practice: Drug Distribution

In New Jersey, N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5 makes it a crime to illegally distribute, manufacture, or dispense controlled dangerous substances. In order for the State to make a case for drug distribution, the prosecutor has to show that the defendant knowingly or purposely manufactured, distributed, or dispenses (or intended to do any of these) a controlled dangerous substance. The grading and punishment for drug distribution depends on the type of drug and the amount found on the defendant. For example, a defendant found with more than 5 ounces of heroin or cocaine will likely be charged with a first degree crime, which carries a term of imprisonment between 10 and 20 years, and fine of up to $500,000. If the amount of cocaine or heroin is less than 5 ounces but more than 0.5 ounces, it is a crime of the second degree, and less than 0.5 ounces is a crime of the third degree. Possession of 25 pounds or more of marijuana with intent to distribute is also a first degree crime. Possession with intent to distribute of between 5 pounds and 25 pounds marijuana is a second degree crime, and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute in an amount less than 5 pounds but more than one ounce is a third degree crime.

A criminal conviction for drug possession in New Jersey carries very serious consequences. If you are charged with possession of drugs in New Jersey, please contact Ravi S. Bhalla, Esq. or Monica Y. Cho, Esq., for a free phone consultation.