Strong Defense From A Skilled Camden County Narcotics Crime Lawyer
If you have been accused of a narcotics crime in Camden County, you could be facing serious legal trouble. You need a skilled lawyer who can fight for your rights.
I am attorney Christopher C. Hoffner, and I have extensive experience providing quality legal representation against drug charges. If you are dealing with a drug arrest, I am prepared to stand by your side.
How Severe Are the Penalties For Narcotics Crimes?
The penalties under New Jersey drug laws depend on the substance, quantity and circumstances of the case. Convictions can result in:
- Drug possession: Fines, probation and possible jail time
- Drug possession with intent to distribute: Harsher penalties, including long prison sentences
- Drug trafficking: Mandatory minimum prison time, especially for large-scale distribution
- Drug paraphernalia possession: Criminal charges, fines and possible incarceration
- Controlled substances violations in a school zone: Enhanced penalties with additional jail time
A narcotics conviction can have lifelong consequences, affecting employment, housing and personal relationships.
What Is The Process For Defending Against A Narcotics Charge In New Jersey?
A strong defense starts with understanding the details of your case. I take an aggressive approach by:
- Reviewing the arrest: I investigate whether the police violated your rights, such as conducting an unlawful search and seizure.
- Challenging the evidence: If the prosecution’s case relies on weak or improperly obtained evidence, I fight to have it dismissed.
- Disputing intent: I challenge claims about your intent and the prosecution’s interpretation of evidence.
- Negotiating for reduced charges: I seek alternative sentencing options like probation or diversion programs to help avoid jail time.
- Preparing for trial: I build defense strategies that target weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and present a compelling argument in your favor.
Facing a drug arrest can be overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone.
New Jersey Narcotics Crimes FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
What are the most common types of drug crimes in New Jersey?
Drug crime charges you face in New Jersey will depend on the circumstances, including the kind of drug involved, the amount and whether there was intent to distribute. Common drug crimes include:
- Possession of controlled substances like marijuana, heroin or cocaine
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Drug trafficking or distribution
- Prescription drug fraud
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Manufacturing or cultivating illegal substances
Each of these offenses carries different legal consequences, and being charged with any of them can affect your life. It is essential to consult a drug crimes attorney as early as possible to understand your options.
Can I be charged with a drug crime if I am not caught with drugs on me?
Yes. You can still be charged through “constructive possession,” which means law enforcement believes you had access to or control over the drugs, even if they were not found on your person.
How does the quantity of drugs affect the severity of the charges?
The amount of drugs found helps determine the charges you face. Small quantities usually lead to simple possession charges, which are less severe.
On the other hand, larger quantities can result in charges of possession with intent to distribute or even trafficking, both of which carry much harsher penalties.
New Jersey also considers the drug type, presence of paraphernalia like scales or baggies and proximity to schools or public property.
What are the consequences of a narcotics drug conviction on my future?
A conviction can have serious long-term effects, including:
- Jail or prison time
- Hefty fines
- Probation or mandatory drug counseling
- Loss of employment opportunities
- Difficulty securing housing or education loans
Our lawyer can help minimize these charges depending on our charge through strategic defense.
How does a drug charge affect my immigration status?
Drug charges can have severe immigration consequences.
A conviction may lead to removal (deportation), denial of re-entry into the U.S. or ineligibility for naturalization, depending on the nature of the offense.
Contact A Camden County Narcotics Crime Lawyer Today
Call 856-438-7549 now to arrange a confidential consultation. Alternatively, reach out online to discuss your case with a Collingswood drug crime defense attorney today.