Have you or someone you know been charged with marijuana possession in Elizabeth New Jersey? Call the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall for a free no-obligation consultation with a highly qualified attorney.
At one time or another, especially if you are a young adult, you may have tried or been in the presence of others who have been in the possession of marijuana, weed, pot, hashish, etc. While some states have made the possession of small quantities of marijuana for personal use a mere civil offense, or even no violation at all, it is still criminal in Union County, including Elizabeth.
Getting caught with marijuana can cause significant damage to your personal and professional reputation and the ordeal doesn’t stop there because you will also face the consequences of a drug conviction. This includes a fines, a mandatory suspension of your driving privileges, and even the possibility of jail. Therefore, you will need the most effective defense lawyer you can find in order to get the charges dismissed or reduced.
If you need help defending a charge for marijuana possession in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the attorneys at our firm, The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall can provide the legal guidance you need. Contact us at 908-272-1700 to arrange a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable and experienced marijuana possession defense lawyers.
Marijuana Possession Offense in Elizabeth, New Jersey
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, possession of 50 grams or less of marijuana for personal use is a disorderly persons offense. A disorderly persons offense for possessing less than 50 grams carries with it the following penalties:
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Up to 180 days in a county jail
- Probation with random drug testing
- Loss of your driver’s license for 6-24 months
These penalties are in addition to those imposed under N.J.S.A. 39:4-49.1 for possession of CDS in a motor vehicle in Elizabeth.
A disorderly persons offense for marijuana possession under 2C:35-10a(4) falls under the jurisdiction of the Elizabeth Municipal Court, which is located at 208 Commerce Pl, Elizabeth, NJ 07201, and can be reached by telephone at 908-558-6800.
If you are caught with more than 50 grams of marijuana, you face a fourth degree crime under 2C:35-10a(3). This is a felony indictable offense that can only be handled at the Union County Superior Court in Elizabeth. If you are convicted of a fourth-degree crime for possession of over 50 grams of marijuana, you face penalties that include:
- A fine of up to $25,000
- Possible jail time of up to 18 months
- Loss of your driving privileges for 6-24 months
- Probation
- Drug counseling
Penalties for both offenses are even more severe if the conduct takes place within 1,000 feet of school property (i.e. school zone). In addition, a person may be found guilty of marijuana possession whether they are found to be in actual or constructive possession of the drug. In other words, whether the drug is found on their person, such as in their hand, pocket or purse, or if it was merely found in an area of their immediate control, but not on their body, such as under the set of their car, in their trunk, or somewhere in their home.
Marijuana Possession Defense Lawyer in Elizabeth
A criminal conviction for marijuana possession not only results in the penalties previously set forth but also collateral consequences that can compromise you future. It can prevent you from gaining citizenship, obtaining public employment, securing a CPA or other license and preclude you from other endeavors that require a clean criminal record. An experienced attorney can eliminate these ramifications through a dismissal or downgrade of your marijuana charge. It is also possible that you may secure a diversion of the offense through Conditional Dismissal or Pretrial Intervention.
It is should be clear to you that it is important to work with a marijuana possession defense lawyer that has the ideal blend of specialized experience and in-depth knowledge of marijuana charges in New Jersey. The lawyers at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have more than 100 combined years of experience handling criminal cases in Elizabeth and will make use of both their know-how and expertise to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us at 908-272-1700 to speak to a lawyer immediately without obligation.
