Frank T. Luciano, P.C.

Prescription Drug Possession

New Jersey Prescription Drug Possession and Distribution Criminal Defense

In the midst of a highly publicized national opioid overdose epidemic, it is not a good time to be facing drug charges related to prescription drugs. The laws and penalties are becoming stronger and stricter with each passing year. If you’ve been charged with illegal possession or distribution of prescription drugs in Hackensack, Paterson, Jersey City or anywhere else in NJ, you need legal help immediately.

Your next action should be to contact NJ criminal defense lawyer Frank T. Luciano. His experience and mastery of NJ’s prescription drug laws has helped keep countless clients out of prison. For more than three-decades, he has successfully defended clients throughout all areas of NJ, including Bergen, Passaic and Essex counties.

Drug crimes involving prescription drugs range from simple possession to distribution, fraud, forgery and illegal use. State and national laws specifically state that individuals can only use prescription drugs with a valid prescription from a licensed physician, dentist, psychiatrist or pharmacist. Additionally, these laws also state that only a person with one of these licenses may write a prescription for prescription drugs.

What You Need to Know About Your New Jersey Prescription Drug Crime

Your charge will range in severity based on the amount of drugs you had on your person or property at the time of your arrest and any other unique details. Here are some important facts about prescription drug crimes:

  • Knowingly possessing more than four doses of a prescription drug is a fourth-degree crime that is punishable with up to 18 months in jail.
  • Distributing four or fewer doses of a prescription drug is also a fourth-degree crime.
  • Distributing between 5-100 doses of a prescription drug is a third-degree crime with a 3-5 year prison sentence and up to a $200,000 fine.
  • Distributing more than 100 doses is a second-degree crime and punishable with up to 10 years’ incarceration and a fine of up to $300,000.
  • Prescription drug fraud is third-degree crime with a fine of up to $50,000 and a maximum of 5 years in prison.
  • Prescription drug forgery is a third-degree crime.
  • Illegal use of prescription drugs is disorderly persons offense and may carry a penalty of up to 6 months in prison and $1,000 in fines.

Your Prescription Drug Criminal Defense Option in Hackensack, NJ

No matter the circumstances surrounding your charges, you should speak to an attorney about possible defense strategies. Every case has unique circumstances that could lead to a reduction of charges, a not guilty verdict, case dismissal or a lenient sentence. Without speaking to a legal expert about your case, you may face a more severe penalty than absolutely necessary.

Frank T. Luciano is committed to keeping his clients out of prison and with their families. When you work with him, you have a guarantee of his undivided attention and unwavering focus. He will explore every possible strategy and examine your case from all angles to ensure you win the best possible outcome in your case. If you or someone you care for is facing a prescription drug crime charge in NJ, contact Frank T. Luciano right away at 973-471-0004 for an initial consultation.