Hydrocodone Possession Charge in New Jersey
Elizabeth, NJ Hydrocodone Charge Attorney
- Experience: Brett M. Rosen is a seasoned lawyer, licensed in both New York and New Jersey. He has been practicing law for over 8 years, specializing in criminal and civil litigation.
- Client Satisfaction: Rosen has received high praise from his clients for his professionalism and effectiveness. Clients have described him as “the example of a true winner” and “one of NJ’s finest attorneys”.
- Trial Skills: Rosen has demonstrated exceptional trial skills, standing ‘toe to toe’ at trial against current and former prosecutors, and certified criminal and civil trial attorneys. His aggressive questioning and thorough approach have been commended by clients.
- High-Profile Cases: Rosen has handled high-profile cases, including representing a celebrity on their domestic violence case and a Grammy-Award winning artist on their drug cases.
- Recognition: He has been recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers.
Contact us today for a consultation, or continue reading this guide that will provide you with a general overview of the hydrocodone possession charge in New Jersey, as well as some common defenses that may be available to you.
Possession of Hydrocodone in New Jersey
According to N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.5, possession of hydrocodone without a prescription is a crime that varies in degree depending on the amount of pills or doses involved. The penalties for possession of hydrocodone in New Jersey are as follows:
- Possession of 4 or fewer pills/doses is a fourth-degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Possession of 5 to 99 pills/doses is a third-degree crime, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $200,000.
- Possession of 100 or more pills/doses is a second-degree crime, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $300,000.
In addition to these penalties, a person convicted of possession of hydrocodone in New Jersey will have a permanent criminal record, which can affect their ability to find employment, housing, education, and other opportunities.
Sale or Distribution of Hydrocodone in New Jersey
Selling or distributing hydrocodone without authorization is also a crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.5, with the same degrees and penalties as possession. However, the prosecution may also consider other factors, such as the location, quantity, and purity of the drug, the presence of weapons, the involvement of minors, and the criminal history of the defendant, to enhance the charges and seek higher sentences.
Prescription Forgery or Fraud in New Jersey
Another way that people may obtain hydrocodone illegally is by forging or fraudulently obtaining a prescription from a doctor, pharmacist, or other source. This is also a crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-13, which prohibits obtaining a controlled substance by fraud, deception, misrepresentation, or subterfuge. This offense is usually a third-degree crime, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. However, if the amount of hydrocodone obtained by fraud exceeds 100 pills/doses, the offense becomes a second-degree crime, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $300,000.
How to Defend Against a Hydrocodone Charge in New Jersey
If you are facing a hydrocodone charge in New Jersey, you need to hire an experienced and skilled criminal defense lawyer who can help you fight the allegations and protect your rights. A lawyer can help you by:
- Challenging the legality of the search, seizure, or arrest that led to the discovery of the drug
- Challenging the validity, accuracy, or reliability of the drug testing or identification
- Challenging the credibility or motives of the witnesses or informants
- Negotiating with the prosecutor for a plea bargain or a diversion program
- Presenting evidence or arguments to show that you had a valid prescription, a medical necessity, or a lack of knowledge or intent
- Presenting mitigating factors or circumstances to seek a reduced charge or sentence
A hydrocodone charge in New Jersey can have serious and lasting consequences for your life. Do not take any chances with your freedom and future. Contact a qualified and dedicated hydrocodone defense lawyer today for a free consultation and case evaluation. Contact our office today to discuss you or a your loved ones hydrocodone charge in New Jersey.
Top-Tier New Jersey Hydrocodone Charge Lawyer
There are many reasons why you should hire New Jersey criminal defense attorney Brett M Rosen for your hydrocodone possession charge in New Jersey. Here are some of them:
- He has close to a decade of experience in criminal law, domestic violence, DUI & DWI, and personal injury.
- He has been recognized as one of the top criminal defense attorneys of 2023 by LA Weekly and selected to Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers Rising Stars list for five consecutive years, a recognition that only 2.5% of attorneys in New Jersey receive.
- He has handled some high-profile cases involving celebrities and reality stars, and secured victories and settlements for his clients.
- He is passionate, dedicated, and assertive in representing his clients, and works tirelessly to ensure fair treatment and due process.
- He is skilled and effective in trial, cross-examination, negotiation, and plea bargain, and strives to obtain the best possible outcome for his clients.
- He is professional, well prepared, and well respected by his peers, judges, and prosecutors.
- He is empathetic and supportive of his clients, and understands the stress and emotional toll that comes with facing criminal charges.
- He is knowledgeable and innovative in his practice, and stays abreast of new developments and advancements in the legal industry, such as artificial intelligence.
These are just some of the reasons why you should hire Brett M Rosen for your hydrocodone possession charge in New Jersey. If you want to learn more about him and his services, you contact him for a free consultation and case evaluation. He will be happy to assist you and fight for your rights.