OCEAN COUNTY CRIMINAL ATTORNEYS: DRUG DISTRIBUTION
The attorneys at the Law Offices of John F. Marshall have earned a great reputation as criminal defense attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. We have almost 60 years of combined legal experience and have been successful at defending countless clients for drug distribution charges in Ocean County. Penalties for individuals facing drug distribution charges include fines up to $300,000, incarceration, and community service. The seriousness of these penalties makes it necessary to obtain an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our lawyers are committed to preparing an aggressive defense against drug distribution charges and can guarantee a thorough and effective defense. Our firm consists of former prosecutors who understand both sides of the law when dealing with drug distribution charges, and we will dedicate ourselves to reducing or disposing of these charges for you. If you have been charged with drug distribution in Ocean County, you should contact a knowledgeable attorney from our office immediately to avoid the harsh sentences that follow drug distribution charges.
Drug Distribution Charges in Ocean County
If you have been charged with drug distribution in Ocean County, you are facing serious consequences. The penalties for a drug distribution charge vary depending on the type and amount of the drug involved. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5, if an individual knowingly or purposely distributes or possesses with intent to distribute:
Schedule I & Schedule II: N.J.S.A. 2C: 35-5(b)(4), (b)(5): If an individual has a quantity of one ounce or more, including any adulterants or dilutants of any Schedule I or Schedule II substance, he or she is guilty of a crime in the second degree, and faces up to 10 years incarceration. If he or she has a quantity of less than one ounce of any Schedule I or II substance, he or she is guilty of a crime of the third degree, and may face up to 5 years in prison and a $75,000 fine.
Marijuana: If an individual has a quantity of 25 lbs. of marijuana or 50 or more marijuana plants, he or she is guilty of a crime in the first degree and faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $300,000. If the quantity is one ounce or more but less than 5 lbs. of marijuana, it is a third degree offense, carrying a penalty of up to 5 years incarceration and a fine of up to $25,000. If the quantity is less than one ounce of marijuana, it is a fourth degree offense, carrying a penalty of up to 18 months in prison.
Heroin or any Coca Leaf Derivative: N.J.S.A 2C: 35-5(b)(1), (b)(2), (b)(3): If an individual has a quantity of five ounces or more, including any adulterants or dilutants, he or she is guilty of a crime of first degree could face up to 20 years in prison, and a fine of $500,000. If the individual has a quantity of less than five ounces but more than ½ of an ounce of heroin, he or she is guilty of a crime of second degree, and faces up to 10 years incarceration. If the individual has a quantity of less than ½ of an ounce, he or she is guilty of a crime of third degree, and could face up to 5 years incarceration and a $75,000 fine.
Methamphetamine: N.J.S.A. 2C: 35-5(b)(9): If an individual has a quantity of five ounces or more, including any adulterants or dilutants, he or she is guilty of a crime in the first degree, and could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $300,000. If the individual has a quantity of less than five ounces but more than ½ of an ounce of methamphetamine, he or she is guilty of a crime in the second degree, and could face up to 10 years detention. If he or she has a quantity of less than ½ of an ounce of methamphetamine, he or she is guilty of a crime of third degree, and could face up to 5 years incarceration.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a drug distribution offense in Ocean County, a lawyer from our office can help you avoid these tough penalties. Our attorneys are fully knowledgeable of drug distribution charges and can have your charged dismissed or downgraded. We have successfully defended drug distribution charges for individuals throughout Ocean County and have earned a reputation as tough criminal attorneys. Our legal team consists of Thomas V. Campo, who is a former prosecutor in Barnegat, Beach Haven, Beachwood, Brick Town, Harvey Cedars, Long Beach, Mantoloking, Plumsted, Point Pleasant Beach, Ship Bottom, Toms River, Tuckerton, Waretown, Little Egg Harbor, Stafford Township, Eagleswood Township, Lacey Township, and Surf City, and has the extensive knowledge and experience to defend you in Ocean County. Please call us for a free initial consultation at 1-877-450-8301 and speak to a criminal attorney immediately.
