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Schedule of Controlled Dangerous Substances ("CDS")

Scheduled Drugs & Narcotics under New Jersey Law

Certain compounds are categorized as a "controlled dangerous substance", also referred to as CDS, under NJ law. When a drug is classified in this manner, it cannot be possessed, sold or distributed except as provided by law. Drugs are deemed CDS when they are susceptible to abuse thereby warranting regulation by the state and law enforcement. If you have a question regarding a controlled dangerous substance, a lawyer at our firm is available to address your questions immediately at 1-877-450-8301. You may also consult Drug Offenses for a comprehensive list of all categories of drug charges discussed within this site. Our lawyers have provided this information for your assistance and we hope it is of value to you. Do not hesitate to contact our office to speak to one of our attorneys if you require additional guidance.  

Drug Schedules in NJ

There are five (5) CDS schedules set forth under New Jersey law. The schedules are as follows:

Criteria for Classifying a Drug or Substance as CDS

The law authorizes the Commissioner of the NJ Department of Health to determine when or if something is a controlled dangerous substance. The drugs listed in the aforementioned schedules already bear the label of  "CDS", however, the Commission may add to the list from time to time.  In making the determination to add a substance, the commissioner is to consider:

  1. The actual and/or potential for abuse of the substance;
  2. The effect which the item has on the human body;
  3. The scientific data regarding the compound;
  4. The historical pattern of abuse, if any, that has been shown;
  5. The level of abuse within the community;
  6. The impact of the substance on public health;
  7. Whether there is any addictive character; and
  8. Whether the substance is a precursor to another drug already classified as CDS.

A detailed review of the law concerning particular drug charges can be found on our Drug Possession and Drug Distribution pages. You may also contact one of our attorneys directly at 1-877-450-8301 for an immediate consultation.
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The criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of John F. Marshall represent New Jersey adult and juvenile clients from offices in Shrewsbury, Cranford, Toms River, Jersey City and New Brunswick. We provide prompt and convenient client service to people in such communities as Newark, Plainfield, Freehold, Eatontown, East Brunswick, Edison, Woodbridge, Westfield, Clark, Rahway, Piscataway, Sayreville, Elizabeth, Middletown, Asbury Park, Long Branch, Jackson, Lakewood, Point Pleasant, Edison, Old Bridge, Aberdeen, Linden, Belmar, Eatontown, Hazlet, Holmdel, Ocean, Sea Bright, Hoboken, Weehawken, Seaside Park, Seaside Heights, Tinton Falls, Wall, Brick, Dover, Jackson, and other locations in Monmouth County, Middlesex County, Union County, Ocean County, Burlington County, Mercer County, Essex County, Hudson County and Morris County.

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