Camden NJ Heroin Distribution Lawyer
Under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5, it is unlawful to manufacture, distribute or dispense, or to possess with intent to distribute, any quantity of heroin. This violation is always an indictable offense that can come in the form of a first, second or third-degree felony crime depending on the quantity being distributed or possessed with intent to distribute. Anyone of these three grades of heroin trafficking carries the possibility of multiple years in state prison, including up to twenty years for a first degree. It should be patently clear to you from this information, that an experienced attorney is of utmost importance for anyone charged with distributing heroin under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5 in Bellmawr, Cherry Hill, Collingswood, Gloucester or another town in Camden County. Our firm possesses this level of expertise with 8 criminal attorneys, many of whom are former prosecutors, and a collective experience level that exceeds 100 years. Call us for an immediate consultation free of charge. An attorney on our team is available 24/7 and will be more than happy to assist you.
Possession With Intent to Distribute Heroin Charge At Camden County Superior Court
The first thing you probably want to know is how the prosecutor determines the grade of your Winslow, Voorhees or other charges for selling heroin in Camden County. It is a first-degree crime under 2C:35-5 to distribute, sell or possess with the intent to distribute, a quantity of five (5) pounds or more of heroin. If you were arrested and charged with selling at least one half-ounce but less than five ounces of heroin, you face a second-degree heroin distribution offense. Distributing a quantity of fewer than .5 ounces is a third-degree crime. It is important to keep in mind that his grading is for a distribution charge brought under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5 and that separate charges for distributing in a school zone or public park carry separate penalties.
The most serious of these offenses is the first-degree of heroin distribution. A first-degree crime for selling heroin triggers possible incarceration for 10 to 20 years. Moreover, due to the severity of the crime, the statute specifically states that whatever sentence is handed down by the court will have a mandatory minimum term of between one-third and one-half of the sentenced during which time the offender will be ineligible for parole. Lastly, as if that wasn’t bad enough, the statute has also deviated as to the fine that may be imposed for the offense. A person found guilty of this will not have to pay the fine for first degree offenses prescribed by N.J.S.A. 2C:43-3, but instead will have to pay a fine of up to $500,000.
While second degree and third-degree heroin distribution are less severe, they nevertheless carry serious penalties. A second-degree heroin distribution offense carries the possibility of incarceration for between 5 and 10 years. It may also lead to the imposition of a fine of up to $150,000. A third-degree conviction for selling heroin results in possible incarceration of between 3 and 5 years. The fine for distributing heroin in the third degree carries an enhanced fine of $75,000 from the normal one of $15,000 that applies under N.J.S.A. 2C:43-3.
Gloucester Township Possession With Intent to Distribute Attorneys
It goes without saying that these are very serious offenses and whether you are charged with a first, second, or third-degree heroin distribution charge you should not face these alone. With the possibility of long-term imprisonment and heavy fines, you need an experienced attorney who knows best how to protect your rights. Here at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, we have over 100 years of collective experience defending criminal matters, including vast experience in defending against distribution charges. So, if you or a loved one has been charged with one of these offenses in Camden County, including Lindenwold, Haddonfield, or Runnemede, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced attorney about the particulars of your case.
