Simple Possession of Marijuana Lawyer in Hackensack, NJ
Possession of any amount of marijuana in Hackensack, NJ or anywhere else in New Jersey will be met with potentially severe legal consequences that may impact your personal and professional life. No amount of marijuana is too small to be arrested for or get a permanent criminal record and/or costly fines. That’s because law enforcement and judges in New Jersey won’t hesitate to crack down on drug offenses.
Hackensack, NJ criminal defense lawyer Frank T. Luciano has the combination of expertise and experience that you need to get the best legal outcome for your case. With his guidance, you may be able to avoid a fine for possession of weed and/or incarceration.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Mahwah, NJ
Despite the widespread legalization of marijuana for medicinal and recreational use around the nation, possession of marijuana in Hackensack, NJ is a very serious offense. The prosecution will seek the maximum New Jersey sentence for marijuana possession, which will include expensive fines and potentially extensive jail time, depending on how much you allegedly had on your person and how many prior convictions you have. As set forth by N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, marijuana possession carries significant penalties in New Jersey.
Here’s what you are facing if charged with marijuana possesion in New Jersey:
- Under 50 Grams
If you are caught with less than 50 grams of marijuana, you will be charged with a disorderly persons offense. This misdemeanor is subject to a penalty of up to six months in jail, fines up to $1,000, mandatory drug rehab and a suspension of your license. You will also be charged with possession of under 50 grams if you are in possession of any drug paraphernalia, roaches, baggies or anything that has marijuana residue. - Over 50 Grams
Possession of more than 50 grams of marijuana is an indictable fourth degree offense. If you are charged with this felony, you will face up to 18 months in jail and a fine of up to $25,000. This is in addition to rehab and suspension of driving privileges.
Important Facts About Your Paramus Marijuana Possession Case
- The Prosecution Will Seek the Maximum Penalty: Drug offenses are taken very seriously in New Jersey. If you are facing possession of marijuana charges, you can expect the state to seek a maximum sentence. This is why it is imperative to protect yourself and your future with an experienced Hackensack, NJ criminal defense attorney.
- Penalties May Increase in Certain Situations: Being in possession of marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school or while caring for a minor will lead to harsher penalties. There are other circumstances that will also impact the severity of your charge.
- You May Be Eligible for a Diversionary Program: Rather than having your record stained for the rest of your life, a skilled defense attorney may be able to help you qualify for a diversionary program that would allow you to avoid jail time and keep your record clean.
- Your Constitutional Rights May Have Been Violated: In many cases, police officers do not always use correct search and seizure procedures when they find marijuana on a person, in a car, or in a home. Police must follow very strict rules when carrying out searches and interrogating suspects. Any violation of these rules may result in your case being dismissed.
Frank T. Luciano Can Help You Fight Your Marijuana Possession Charges in Elmwood Park, NJ
Now is not the time to take any chances. You have been charged with possession of marijuana and your next few decisions may alter the course of your life. Going to jail could jeopardize your lifestyle, job, education and/or family. Hackensack, NJ marijuana crime attorney Frank T. Luciano is here to make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
If you’d like to learn more about your possession of marijuana charge and your legal options, and potentially avoid jail time and fines, we invite you to contact Mr. Luciano and benefit from his near 40 years’ experience.