Burlington County Drug Crime Lawyer
Drug Charge Attorney in Burlington County, NJ Providing Comprehensive Legal Services in Mount Laurel, Willingboro, Pemberton, and Throughout South Jersey
If you’re facing drug-related charges in Burlington County, having an experienced attorney by your side is essential. Drug crimes can lead to serious consequences, including jail time, hefty fines, and a lasting criminal record that can impact your future opportunities. John B. Brennan, a seasoned Burlington County drug crime lawyer, understands the complexities of New Jersey’s legal system and is dedicated to providing aggressive, strategic defense for clients. With years of experience as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney, I have the insight and skill necessary to fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
At The Law Office of John B. Brennan, I have built a strong reputation for commitment to justice and a personalized approach to each case. No two cases are alike, which is why I take the time to understand every detail to build a strong defense tailored to your unique situation. When you work with John B. Brennan, you gain more than just a lawyer—you gain an advocate who will stand by you every step of the way, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard in court.
Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney John B. Brennan Can Help with Any Kind of Drug Crime Charge
Drug crimes in New Jersey are serious matters, and their penalties often depend on the classification of the substance involved. Both state and federal laws categorize drugs into five schedules, or classifications, based on two primary factors: whether the drug has an accepted medical use and its potential for abuse and addiction. Understanding these schedules is crucial for anyone facing drug charges, as the classification often determines the severity of the charges and potential penalties. As a knowledgeable drug crime lawyer, I have extensive experience navigating these classifications to craft effective defense strategies.
- Schedule I: Schedule I drugs are considered the most dangerous, with no accepted medical use in the United States and a high potential for abuse. These drugs often carry the harshest penalties. Examples include heroin, LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), MDMA (Ecstasy), and marijuana (at the federal level, despite its legalization in some states)
- Schedule II: Schedule II substances have a high potential for abuse and addiction, but they also have some accepted medical uses under strict regulations. Possession or distribution of these drugs can lead to severe consequences. Common examples include cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone (oxycontin), fentanyl, and Adderall and Ritalin (when misused).
- Schedule III: Drugs in this category have a moderate to low potential for physical dependence but may lead to psychological addiction. They have accepted medical uses and are often prescribed, but they can still be abused. Examples include ketamine, anabolic steroids, codeine (when combined with other medications), and testosterone.
- Schedule IV: Schedule IV substances have a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule III drugs and are commonly used in medical treatments. However, misuse or illegal possession of these drugs can still result in criminal charges. Examples include Xanax (alprazolam), Valium (diazepam), Ambien (zolpidem), and tramadol.
- Schedule V: Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse among the classifications and are often used for medical purposes. These drugs typically contain limited quantities of certain narcotics. Examples include cough syrups with low doses of codeine, Lomotil, and Lyrica.
By understanding the schedules under which different types of controlled substances are classified, The Law Office of John B. Brennan can evaluate the specifics of your case, including the type of drug involved, and develop a defense strategy that targets weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Whether you are accused of possessing a Schedule I drug or misusing a prescription medication, I have the experience to protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome.
Facing Charges For Drug Crimes In Burlington County And Have Questions? I Can Help, Tell Me What Happened.
The Law Office of John B. Brennan Will Provide the Dedicated and Tenacious Legal Representation You Need
As soon as you are under investigation or arrested for a drug-related offense, securing strong legal representation is critical to protecting your future. Drug charges, even for first-time offenders, often prompt a rigorous response from the criminal justice system. Prosecutors may attempt to escalate charges, such as claiming possession with intent to distribute when the drugs were solely for personal use. With the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney like me, you can fight for a reduction or dismissal of your charges, safeguarding your freedom and helping you return to your normal life as quickly as possible. Drawing on my extensive experience, I can also guide you toward alternatives to traditional prosecution, such as participation in drug court. If eligible, this program could help you avoid the long-term consequences of a criminal conviction while focusing on rehabilitation and recovery.
New Jersey Drug Court: A Path to Recovery and Rehabilitation
New Jersey’s Drug Court program has become a beacon of hope for individuals charged with drug-related offenses. In 2012, former Governor Chris Christie signed a landmark bill into law that expanded this nationally recognized program, making it more accessible to eligible defendants across the state. This initiative reflects a shift in how New Jersey addresses drug crimes, focusing on rehabilitation over incarceration for non-violent offenders struggling with addiction.
Before the Expansion of Drug Court
Prior to the implementation of this bill, many drug crime defendants in New Jersey faced harsh penalties, even for first-time or non-violent offenses. The criminal justice system often prioritized punitive measures, such as imprisonment, over addressing the root cause of drug-related behavior—substance abuse. This approach frequently led to overcrowded jails, high recidivism rates, and limited opportunities for offenders to break free from the cycle of addiction and criminal activity.
Without structured programs like Drug Court, individuals convicted of drug offenses were often left with few options for rehabilitation. The result was a system that punished addiction without offering meaningful support for recovery, leaving many defendants unable to rebuild their lives.
The Future with Drug Court in Effect
Governor Christie’s legislation expanded the Drug Court program, allowing more individuals to participate and access its resources. Drug Court focuses on treating addiction through a structured program of counseling, treatment, and supervision rather than resorting to incarceration. Participants undergo rigorous requirements, including regular drug testing, mandatory counseling sessions, and court appearances, all designed to promote accountability and recovery.
This expansion marked a turning point in how New Jersey handles drug crime defendants. Instead of being funneled into the traditional criminal justice system, eligible non-violent offenders are now given the opportunity to address their addiction and work toward a better future. The program’s success has shown that rehabilitation not only benefits the individual but also reduces recidivism rates and alleviates the burden on the state’s prison system.
As an experienced Burlington County drug crime lawyer, I have helped clients navigate the Drug Court program, guiding them through eligibility requirements and assisting with the application process. By advocating for clients to gain access to this alternative pathway, I ensure that they have the best chance at a fresh start, free from the devastating consequences of a criminal conviction.
Contact an Experienced Burlington County Drug Crime Lawyer for a Free Consultation Today
Facing drug crime charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. With The Law Office of John B. Brennan, you’ll have a dedicated and experienced advocate by your side, fighting to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. Whether you’re dealing with charges of possession, distribution, or another drug-related offense, I have the knowledge to help you navigate the legal process with confidence. Take the first step toward protecting your future. Schedule a complimentary consultation with The Law Office of John B. Brennan today. A consultation with a trusted drug crime lawyer allows you to have the details of your case reviewed, get your questions answered, and understand your options for moving forward. Don’t wait—contact me now to start building a strong defense and take control of your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Crimes in Burlington County
If you or a loved one has been accused of a drug crime in Burlington County, you likely have many questions about what to expect and how to proceed. Drug charges can be complicated, and the consequences can affect your future, making it critical to understand your rights and legal options. Below, I answer some of the most common questions people have about drug crimes in Burlington County. These answers aim to provide clarity and help you make informed decisions as you navigate this challenging time.
If you are arrested for a drug crime, the most important thing to do is remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions or provide explanations to law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact an experienced Burlington County drug crime lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building your defense.
Penalties for drug crimes in Burlington County vary depending on the type and amount of the drug involved, as well as the nature of the charges. For example:
Possession of small amounts of marijuana: May result in fines and mandatory drug education classes.
Possession of larger quantities or intent to distribute: Can lead to significant prison time and fines.
Drug trafficking charges: Carry some of the harshest penalties, including long prison sentences.
Additionally, having a drug conviction on your record can impact your ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain loans.
Yes, it is possible to be charged with intent to distribute even if the drugs were solely for personal use. Prosecutors often look at factors like the quantity of the drug, packaging materials, and other items like scales or large amounts of cash to determine intent. An experienced attorney can challenge these assumptions and present evidence to argue that the drugs were not intended for distribution.
Yes, there are several potential defenses to gun crime charges, depending on the facts of your case. Common defenses include:
Illegal search and seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during the search, the evidence could be suppressed.
Lack of intent: The prosecution must often prove intent in certain gun crime cases, such as possession for an unlawful purpose.
Mistaken identity: In some cases, it may not be clear who owned or possessed the firearm.
The Law Office of John B. Brennan will thoroughly investigate your case to uncover any weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation.
A drug crime conviction can remain on your record indefinitely, which can affect your future opportunities. However, some convictions may be eligible for expungement after a certain amount of time. Expungement removes the conviction from your public record, allowing you to move forward without the stigma of a criminal history. Consulting an experienced lawyer can help you understand if expungement is an option for your situation.
Dealing with drug charges is a stressful and overwhelming experience, but understanding the process can make it easier to navigate. If you have more questions or need legal guidance from a dedicated Burlington County drug crime lawyer, reach out to The Law Office of John B. Brennan. With extensive experience and a personalized approach, I can help you build a strong defense and work toward the best possible outcome. Contact me today for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the first step toward protecting your future.