If you have been charged with a drug crime, your freedom, future, and reputation are on the line. Whether you are facing possession charges or serious allegations like trafficking, the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering. At Ziegler Law Group LLC, we offer experienced legal representation to aggressively fight drug charges, protect your rights, and minimize the impact on your life.
Understanding Drug Crimes in New Jersey
Drug-related offenses in New Jersey range from minor possession charges to serious trafficking accusations. Here is a breakdown of the most common drug crimes and their consequences:
- Drug Possession Charges
Being caught with a controlled substance can lead to severe penalties, especially if the substance is classified as a higher-tier drug like heroin or cocaine. Even marijuana possession, though recently decriminalized, can still carry penalties in certain cases. - Drug Distribution and Trafficking
The sale or distribution of drugs, particularly when large quantities are involved, leads to more severe consequences, including mandatory minimum sentences and heavy fines. These charges can escalate if it is believed that you were involved in a drug trafficking network. - Drug Paraphernalia Charges
Possessing certain items, such as pipes, bongs, or syringes, can result in criminal charges if they are considered paraphernalia used to consume illegal substances. These charges often accompany other drug-related offenses. - New Jersey’s Controlled Substances Act
New Jersey classifies drugs into five schedules under the Controlled Substances Act. The classification of the drug plays a critical role in the severity of the charges and the potential penalties involved.
The Consequences of a Drug Crime Conviction
A drug crime conviction can severely impact every aspect of your life:
- Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the charge, you could face months or years behind bars.
- Financial Penalties: Convictions often carry heavy fines, which can add up to thousands of dollars.
- Criminal Record: A permanent criminal record can limit your job prospects, prevent you from obtaining housing, and damage your personal relationships.
How Ziegler Law Group Fights Drug Charges
At Ziegler Law Group LLC, we take a personalized approach to every case, using aggressive defense strategies tailored to your situation:
- Challenging Evidence: Our criminal drug lawyers meticulously review the prosecution’s evidence, including how it was obtained, to challenge its admissibility in court. We look for illegal searches, mishandled evidence, and any violations of your constitutional rights.
- Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, securing a favorable plea deal may be the best course of action. We work with prosecutors to reduce charges and minimize penalties, ensuring that your future remains intact.
- Experienced Courtroom Advocacy: Our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients at From cross-examining witnesses to presenting a compelling defense, we fight for the best possible outcome in every case.
To discuss your legal rights and options with an experienced criminal defense attorney, call us at (973) 533-1100 or contact us online for a thorough case evaluation.
The Drug Crime Legal Process
Here is what you can expect if you have been charged with a drug crime:
- Arrest and Charges
After your arrest, you will be formally charged with a crime. It is critical to contact a drug offenses lawyer immediately to protect your rights from the start. - Bail and Pre-Trial Motions
Your attorney will work to get you released on bail while preparing your defense. Pre-trial motions, such as motions to suppress evidence, are crucial at this stage. - Discovery Phase
During this phase, your defense attorney for drug charges will gather evidence, review police reports, and consult experts to build your defense strategy. - Negotiation and Trial
If we cannot negotiate a favorable plea agreement, we will proceed to trial, presenting a strong defense on your behalf. Our goal is to either secure a dismissal or achieve the most favorable outcome possible.
Matrimonial/Family Law
Experienced New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorney
Jason J. LeBoeuf is a seasoned and well-regarded criminal defense attorney in New Jersey who brings close to two decades of experience defending the criminally accused to Ziegler Law Group LLC in order to chair our Criminal Department. Jason’s reputation for zealous advocacy on behalf of his clients is well-known. He has tried hundreds of matters to verdict in the Federal, State and Municipal levels from DWI/DUIs to extensive RICO matters and complicated homicides. His vast experience and success as a criminal litigator have earned him the distinction of being one of only 250 attorneys recognized by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney.
At Ziegler Law Group LLC, you can count on us to zealously defend your constitutional due process rights as a criminal defendant. We have experience handling the following cases:
- Domestic Violence
- DWI/DUI
- Traffic violations
- Driver’s license issues
- Drug crimes
- Weapons offenses
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) violations
- White collar crimes
- Theft crimes
- Violent offenses
- Expungements
- Criminal appeals
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the penalties for drug possession in New Jersey?
Penalties for drug possession vary based on the drug type and amount. For example, possessing small amounts of marijuana may result in fines, while possessing heroin or cocaine can lead to felony charges and prison time. - Can drug charges be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, in many cases, drug charges can be reduced or dismissed. Our attorneys look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, including improper police conduct or lack of evidence, to negotiate for reduced charges or seek a dismissal. - What should I do if I amarrested for a drug crime?
If you are arrested, remain calm, do not resist, and avoid making any statements without your attorney present. Contact Ziegler Law Group LLC immediately to start building your defense.
Get Started by Calling (973) 533-1100 for Quality Criminal Defense Representation in New Jersey
If you or a loved one is facing drug charges, your future is at stake. Do not wait—get the experienced legal representation you need to fight the charges. Ziegler Law Group LLC is ready to protect your rights and fight for your freedom. Call (973) 533-1100 for a free consultation today.
To schedule a consultation about your case, call us at (973) 533-1100 or contact us online today.
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