New Jersey Cocaine Charges Attorney
Trusted Cocaine Defense Lawyer Fights for Clients Facing Charges for Possession and Possession With Intent to Distribute Cocaine in Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Throughout New Jersey
Are you or a loved one facing cocaine charges? Perhaps charged with cocaine possession? Or accused of possession with intent to distribute cocaine?
Whether your cocaine charge involves possession or distribution, whether it is a possession of cocaine first offense or a subsequent offense, The Law Office of John B. Brennan has your back. Skilled New Jersey cocaine charges attorney John B. Brennan defends clients accused of all types of cocaine charges, protecting their rights and fighting on their behalf for the best possible outcome in each case.
Facing Cocaine Charges And Have Questions? I Can Help, Tell Me What Happened.
Skilled New Jersey Cocaine Charges Attorney Defends Clients Accused Of All Types Of Cocaine Charges 2C:35-10
When you are facing a cocaine charge, it is important to understand how cocaine possession works under the law and the ramifications of a charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
In New Jersey, “cocaine possession” is considered to be found in several ways:
- Possessing the cocaine directly: this refers to having the cocaine on your person — physically in your pocket, in your backpack or pocketbook, in your apartment, your car, or your house.
- Constructive cocaine possession: It is also considered to be cocaine possession if cocaine is found in a location — such as a car or a house — where several people are present and it is unclear who possessed the cocaine. This situation is considered constructive possession, where any individual in the area is guilty of cocaine possession if they knew the drug was present and had the ability and intention to take control over the substance.
- Joint cocaine possession: this refers to situations where ownership or control of the cocaine is shared by two or more individuals, such as two people purchasing the cocaine together.
In New Jersey, a “possession with intent to distribute cocaine” charge is primarily based on the quantity of cocaine that is in possession. And the penalties for cocaine distribution vary in severity based on the amount of cocaine that is found.
Specifically, in New Jersey, the penalties for possession with intent to distribute cocaine (including selling and manufacturing) are as follows:
- Amount of less than 0.5 oz of cocaine: third degree crime. Penalties include up to five years in prison, and a fine of up to $75,000.
- Amount of 0.5 oz to a maximum of 5 oz. of cocaine: second degree crime. Penalties include up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000.
- Amount of 5 oz. or more of cocaine: first degree crime. Penalties include from 10 to 20 years in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence and a fine of up to $500,000.
If an individual is arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine in a public park, in a school zone, or in a public housing project, the penalties increase. A cocaine distribution charge in a school zone — which is considered to be within 1,000 feet of school property — brings a mandatory minimum prison term of one-third to one-half of the sentence or three years, whichever is greater. During this term, the individual is not eligible for parole. A cocaine distribution charge within 500 feet of a housing project or a public park is considered a separate second degree offense, regardless of whether the quantity of cocaine is greater than 0.5 oz.
Cocaine charges in New Jersey are complicated. But it is critical that anyone arrested for cocaine possession understand New Jersey’s cocaine laws. Trusted New Jersey cocaine charges attorney John B. Brennan fights for clients who are facing charges for possession and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The Law Office of John B. Brennan offers a free, confidential case evaluation; arrange for your complimentary consultation today.
Get Advice From An Experienced Cocaine Charges Lawyer. All You Have To Do Is Call 856-988-5443 To Receive Your Free Case Evaluation.
Facing A Cocaine Charge? Learn How the Top-Rated New Jersey Cocaine Charges Attorney at The Law Office of John B. Brennan Can Help Your Case
Found with cocaine in your backpack? Pulled over while out with friends and there was cocaine tucked in the glove compartment box? These situations are serious. Possession of any amount of cocaine is illegal in New Jersey and the penalties are severe. Having a skilled criminal defense attorney to handle your case is essential for a favorable outcome.
Top-rated New Jersey cocaine charges attorney John B. Brennan is a certified criminal trial attorney and former prosecutor with over 30 years of criminal trial experience. Attorney Brennan draws on his 25 years of prosecutorial experience to develop a strategic defense of cocaine charges to have cases dismissed or charges reduced. Learn how we can help your case. The Law Office of John B. Brennan offers a free, no obligation consultation; schedule your appointment with our office today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Charges of Cocaine Possession and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine In New Jersey
Yes. In New Jersey, under the state’s criminal code statute N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, it is considered a felony if an individual is in possession of any amount of cocaine. Cocaine is considered a “controlled dangerous substance” (CDS) in New Jersey, and possession of any amount of this drug is considered a third degree crime. Penalties for conviction of possession of cocaine are serious, including a fine of up to $35,000, up to five years in state prison, and revocation of the drivers’ license. The experienced New Jersey cocaine charges attorney at The Law Office of John B. Brennan defends individuals facing all types of cocaine charges, with a record of achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. To arrange a free, no obligation consultation regarding your cocaine charge, contact our office.
Controlled dangerous substances (CDS) are classified by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) into five drug schedules. These categories are based on the drug’s acceptable medical use and the drug’s potential for abuse or dependency. Cocaine is considered a dangerous drug and is classified under Schedule II, which are substances that have a high potential for abuse and dependency.