New Jersey has legalized recreational use of limited amounts of marijuana for adults in recent years, but people can still face criminal charges for possession and distribution. People caught for marijuana possession can face harsh criminal penalties, such as jail time and fines if convicted, which is why working with an experienced legal professional is critical.
A Piscataway marijuana possession lawyer could investigate the evidence and help you fight the charges. They could work tirelessly to search for a solution that protects your rights and defends your freedom. Schedule an appointment with one of our dedicated drug attorneys today.
According to New Jersey Statutes § 24:6I-31, also known as the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act, people over the age of 21 are now legally allowed to have as much as six ounces of marijuana or cannabis products in their possession. They can purchase their marijuana at licensed dispensaries but only smoke or use these products in private places. State law prohibits driving a car while under the influence of marijuana. Additionally, people cannot transport pot over state lines.
If someone has a question about whether they violated relevant laws regarding recreational marijuana use, they should consult a Piscataway attorney about their rights.
If a defendant possesses more than six ounces of pot, they could face serious charges because it is a crime of the fourth degree, which could bring a prison sentence of 18 months and a maximum fine of $25,000.
Defendants under the age of 21 or 18 can face charges regardless of how much marijuana they have.
If a defendant uses marijuana in a school zone or on a school bus, they could face additional penalties and must perform mandatory community service.
Distributing marijuana is still a crime unless the person works for a licensed medicinal or recreational dispensary or has a valid cannabis cultivator’s license. A conviction on illegal distribution charges could also bring up to a $300,000 fine.
In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction could affect someone’s reputation, hurting their ability to apply for a job or a housing loan. A well-informed attorney could explain the possible consequences of a drug possession conviction in Piscataway.
When a police officer finds a person in possession of weed, they might assume there is no defense. However, a skilled local attorney in Piscataway could examine the facts of the incident.
A knowledgeable attorney would first closely examine the arresting police officers’ actions. They would see if the police had valid grounds to perform a search and seizure of the drugs. For instance, unless there were clear signs of another crime or of distribution of a large amount of pot, a police officer cannot arrest someone for distribution or search for proof of distribution. Similarly, a police officer cannot base their decision to search for possession or distribution based on the odor of weed.
Even if the police acted reasonably and the evidence looked clear-cut, a skilled lawyer might be able to help negotiate a favorable plea bargain with the prosecution.
Although small amounts of marijuana are now legal for recreational purposes, you can still face harsh legal penalties for possessing, growing, or distributing pot in New Jersey.
Work with a skilled and experienced Piscataway marijuana possession lawyer today who understands how to mount the best possible defense to help you resolve your drug issue. Our lawyer has over 16 years of experience and fights hard to be the voice for the voiceless and would not let you get taken advantage of in the courtroom. Call today to schedule your initial consultation.