Charged With Possession or Distribution of MDMA (Ecstasy or Molly) in Union County New Jersey
MDMA is an abbreviation for the psychoactive drug methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine. This drug is more commonly known as ecstasy, molly, and mandy, and induces a euphoric effect. While MDMA was originally an extremely popular club drug, both ecstasy and molly have now become more widespread in terms of abuse. As a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance (“CDS”), it is illegal to possess, manufacture, distribute or dispense MDMA by anyone other than through a validly issued prescription. If you have been charged with possession, distribution or possession with intent to distribute mdma/ecstasy/molly, you are encouraged to contact our firm. The team of criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have in excess of 100 years in practice, including considerable time serving as prosecutors. We defend MDMA and related drug charges at the Superior Court in Elizabeth arising throughout Union County, including Elizabeth, Rahway, Roselle Park, Union and Roselle Park. Call our Union New Jersey Law Office at 908-272-1700 for a free initial consultation.
Methylenedioxy & Related Substances
In accordance with N.J.S.A. 24:21-5, methylenedioxy and similarly composed compounds constitute are Schedule I drugs. The reason why they are classified in this manner is because they have a high potential for abuse, have no accepted medical use and/or cannot be used safely to treat someone. Both 3,4-methylenedioxy amphetamine and 5-methoxy-3,4-methylenedioxy amphetamine, are set forth in this category and are illegal to possess or distribute in any quantity in New Jersey.
Possession of Ecstasy, Molly or MDMA. Possession of MDMA, Ecstasy or Molly is illegal in any quantity under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. Violation of this law results in a third degree crime which is a felony. The penalties for third degree possession of ecstasy/molly/mdma include up to five years in state prison and a fine as high as $35,000. In addition, someone found guilty of possessing any of these substances or their constituents is subject to a mandatory driver’s license suspension of between six months and two years.
Distribution of MDMA and Related Substances. When possession is with intent to distribute, involves manufacturing or distributing ecstasy or molly, the potential consequences increase significantly under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5.
- First Degree Crime. Where someone is found guilty of manufacturing, distributing or dispensing five (5) ounces or more of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine or 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine, they are subject to the penalties for a crime of the first degree. This includes a fine of up to $500,000 and ten to twenty years in prison, with a minimum term fixed at, or between, one-third and one-half of the sentence imposed, during which the defendant shall be ineligible for parole.
- Second Degree Crime. Distribution or selling at least one-half ounce but less than five ounces is a second degree crime. The maximum penalties for this grade include a $150,000 fine and ten years in prison.
- Third Degree Crime. Distributing less than a half ounce of ecstasy or molly is a third degree crime with a possible jail term as high as five years and a fine of $75,000.
The penalties that apply for each of these grades of manufacturing or selling MDMA are significantly enhanced, however, when these activities occur in a school zone or public park zone.
Elizabeth NJ MDMA Defense Attorneys
As you have undoubtedly noticed, any MDMA offense is a serious matter. Any form of possession is, at a minimum, a third degree felony that exposes someone to the potential of years in prison. For this reason, it is extremely important that you do everything you can to avoid a conviction and hiring a skilled lawyer is one of the best things you can do to help yourself. The defense attorneys that are part of our staff have represented clients charged with possession and distribution of cds, including MDMA, ecstasy and molly, for decades in Elizabeth. Whether you were arrested in Cranford, Hillside, Plainfield, Springfield, Linden or another Union County municipality, an attorney that is equipped to provide a comprehensive is ready to assist you. Contact our Union NJ Office today at 908-272-1700 for an immediate free consultation.
