Facing Allegations of Local Drug Dealing in New Jersey? Our Defense Lawyer Can Help
At the Law Office of Matthew V. Portella, LLC, our New Jersey criminal defense attorney handles local drug dealing offenses. If you are accused of participating in a low-level drug dealing scheme, you could face a very serious felony criminal charge. Professional legal representation is a must. Contact our New Jersey local drug dealing charges defense lawyer today.
An Overview of the New Jersey Criminal Statute on Local Drug Dealing Offenses
In New Jersey, drug distribution offenses—including most cases involving allegations of local drug dealing—are generally governed by (N.J.S.A. § 2C:35-5). The statute outlines the law against the
manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing of controlled substances. It is important to emphasize that the law targets not only large-scale drug trafficking operations but also smaller, local dealers. That a person is only a local dealer does not prevent him or her from facing a charge under N.J.S.A. § 2C:35-5. In New Jersey, distribution—including local drug dealing—is defined as any action involving the selling or transferring of controlled substances without authorization. The penalties for a local drug dealing offense will depend on the nature and quantity of the drug(s) in question.
The Severity of Low Level Local Drug Dealing Cases in New Jersey
Third-Degree Crime
In New Jersey, distributing or possessing with intent to distribute less than one-half ounce of heroin, cocaine, or other narcotic drugs classified in Schedule I or II is considered a third-degree criminal offense. Those found guilty may face significant penalties, including incarceration.
Fourth-Degree Crime
Handling smaller quantities of less severe controlled substances also carries serious penalties. For example, distributing or possessing with intent to distribute under an ounce of marijuana or less than five grams of hashish is deemed a fourth-degree crime in New Jersey.
Two Major Additional Issues that Can Arise in Local Drug Dealing Cases in New Jersey
There are some additional issues that can arise in local drug dealing cases in New Jersey that could lead to the crime carrying more serious criminal penalties. Here is an overview of two relatively common aggravating factors:
- Proximity to a School: New Jersey law imposes harsher penalties on drug distribution offenses committed within 1,000 feet of school property. Offenders caught dealing drugs in these zones face mandatory minimum sentences.
- The Use of Juveniles: Under New Jersey law, employing juveniles in drug dealing operations also leads to increased penalties. The state targets these exploitative practices with especially severe repercussions.
What Defenses Can Be Raised in a Drug Dealing Case?
Facing a criminal charge for alleged local drug dealing in New Jersey? You are presumed innocent until proven guilty. You have the right to raise a strong, zealous defense. It is crucial that you identify the right defense strategy for your specific case. Common defenses include:
- Unlawful Search/Seizure: How did police find the alleged drugs? It matters. You can raise a Fourth Amendment defense if you were subject to an illegal search. If the police did not follow legal procedures when finding the drugs—like searching your home without a warrant or probable cause—the evidence might not be allowed in court.
- Lack of Intent: Intent matters. One potential defense against dealing is that there was no intention to sell or distribute the drugs. It might apply if you were simply holding the drugs.
- Plea Deal: It is important to emphasize that an aggressive defense is not always the right strategy for a local drug dealing case. If prosecutors have sufficient evidence to obtain a conviction, it may be better to focus on negotiating a plea bargain.
Why Trust Our New Jersey Drug Dealing Defense Lawyer
Drug dealing charges are very serious in New Jersey. Even a local scheme can lead to felony criminal charges. Any person accused of any type of drug distribution-related offense needs top-tier legal advocacy. Our founding attorney Matthew V. Portella, Esq. has the experience that you can rely on. We are proactive and solutions-driven. Our New Jersey local drug dealing defense lawyer will:
- Hear your story and answer questions about drug dealing charges;
- Investigate the allegations, gathering all of the evidence you need to build a defense; and
- Develop a personalized strategy committed to protecting your rights and your interests.
Schedule Your Confidential Consultation With Our New Jersey Drug Dealing Defense Attorney
At the Law Office of Matthew V. Portella, LLC, our New Jersey drug dealing defense lawyer handles all types of charges, including local dealing offenses. Give us a phone call now or connect with us online to arrange your strictly private, no commitment initial case review. From our law office in Haddonfield, we defend local drug dealing cases throughout all of New Jersey.
From our legal offices in Haddonfield, we defend drug charges throughout New Jersey including in Atlantic County, Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, Cumberland County, and Salem County.