While prescription drugs like Quaaludes dominated the the drug scene is 1980s, they are non-existent in today’s culture. Instead, they have been replaced by drugs like Valium and Percocet. These prescription drugs are more accessible and at times more potent. Whether the initial addiction stems from prescription use during a major injury (knee, back, arm, pelvis, etc.) or unprescribed use, the result is still the same. The addictive qualities of these prescription drugs can overcome adults and teenagers alike. Depending on the amount of drugs in your possession at the time of the offense, you may be facing a fourth degree crime at the Morris County Superior Court.
For an immediate consultation on your prescription drug charges, contact The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall today. Our firm has handled thousands of drug related cases, including but not limited too possession of prescription drugs, cocaine distribution, possession of heroin with the intent to distribute, marijuana possession, possession of Molly, possession of Oxycodone, possession of heroin and cocaine possession. If you have been charged with any of the aforementioned offenses in towns like Dover, Roxbury, Hanover, Randolph or Mendham, it is imperative that you speak to an experienced New Jersey drug possession defense attorney immediately. Our attorneys can be reached 24/7 at 973-309-7050.
Percocet Possession Charges in Montville, NJ: N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.5
Suburban communities, rather than urban communities, typically have a higher rate a prescription drug use. Morris County, being a mostly suburban community, tends to file a high number of charges for prescription drug use and prescription drug possession. Drugs like Percocet at referred to as “Prescription Legend Drugs” any dissemination of the drug is required to bear the statement “Rx only” or a similar warning that such drug may be sold or dispensed only upon the prescription of a licensed medical practitioner. Unlike controlled dangerous substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, prescription drugs are considered to have some medical value in the community. It is for this reason that prescription legend drug possession has its own statutory sanctions.
As mentioned above, the amount of prescription drugs in your possession at the time of the arrest or investigatory stop will determine the severity of the charges. Simply carrying one extra dose could mean the difference between facing indictable charges (also known as a felony) or facing non-indictable charges (also known as a misdemeanor). Those charges that are indictable will be handled by the Morris County Superior Court, while those charges that are non-indictable will be be heard at the municipal court level.
Fourth Degree Prescription Drug Possession and Disorderly Persons Prescription Drug Possession
In Morris County, possessing five (5) or more doses is a fourth degree crime. As such, it carries up to eighteen (18) months in prison and a $10,000.00 fine. Possessing four (4) dosage units or fewer is a disorderly persons offense. If convicted, you may face six (6) months in the Morris County jail and a $1,000.00 fine. What constitutes a dosage will be determined by the trier of fact, whether it be a judge or a jury.
If you or a loved one has been charged with possessing of prescription legend drugs with the intent to distribute or actually distribution please checkout our practice series by clicking here.
Morris County NJ Prescription Drug Possession Lawyers
Not every case will result in the same outcome. The facts of each case along with the defendant’s criminal record will play a major factor in how a prescription drug possession case is resolved. That is why you should contact an attorney to thoroughly consider every possible outcome or consequence involved in your case. Some defendant’s would be best suited for a diversionary program such as PTI or a conditional discharge, while others may require admission to drug court.
Alternatively, some defendants may be forced to take their case to trial. Whatever the situation calls for, it is best to consult with an attorney beforehand and discuss all possibilities. For assistance in representing you in your drug possession case, contact The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall in Morris County. With over decades of legal experience, our firm has to tools and resources necessary to represent your interests.