Drug Crime Defense Lawyers in New Jersey

Drug crimes in New Jersey are a common occurrence. The Garden State does not take these crimes lightly. In fact, the state has strong consequences for many drug crimes, even for first-time offenders.

If you are charged with a drug crime in the state of New Jersey, you should not take it lightly. Remember, criminal records are public records. You will want to find a strong defense against drug crime charges.

Drug-related convictions can cause irreparable harm, affecting your reputation, employment status, future job opportunities, housing applications, and your ability to get a loan.

It is common to feel anxious and worried about your future if you are arrested for drugs. To protect yourself, do not delay in calling an attorney. When facing drug charges, you’ll want an experienced criminal defense lawyer who is well-versed in New Jersey drug laws.

We Represent Individuals Accused of Drug Possession Crimes

Changes in New Jersey’s drug laws may create the impression that the state no longer imposes severe penalties on individuals convicted of drug crimes. However, it is essential to recognize that this is not the case.

At Lackey & Miller, LLC, located in Cherry Hill, our attorneys are former prosecutors who fully comprehend the gravity of drug crime convictions and the serious consequences they entail. Our attorneys are well versed in the most effective approaches to attack the way evidence was obtained and counter any unwarranted allegations.

Whether you are facing charges related to the illegal possession, sale, or manufacture of drugs, the attorneys at our firm will examine all the relevant facts and circumstances surrounding your situation and work tirelessly on your case.

We Handle Drug Possession, Distribution, and Manufacturing Cases

The criminal law firm of Lackey & Miller, LLC is well-equipped to help our clients fight drug charges. As former prosecutors, we understand both sides of the aisle in court cases. We are highly experienced in handling all types of drug charges relating to the possession, distribution, and manufacture of illegal substances. Specific criminal charges we handle associated with illegal drugs include:

Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10)

Being caught in possession of most illegal drugs or prescription medications without proper authorization is a third-degree crime in New Jersey (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10). If convicted, these carry a potential penalty of three to five years of imprisonment. Not all drug convictions need to result in jail time. The key to mitigating such drastic consequences begins with the guidance of a qualified criminal defense attorney.

Possession with Intent to Distribute (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5)

When law enforcement discovers a quantity of drugs exceeding what is usually associated with personal use or uncovers evidence suggesting a person intended to sell the controlled dangerous substances, the potential consequences become significantly more serious (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5). A conviction for possession with intent to conduct drug distribution can result in a lengthy prison term and carry a substantial fine that may reach figures ranging from five to six digits.

Maintaining a CDS Production Facility (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-4)

Maintaining a drug manufacturing production facility is a first-degree crime, carrying potential long-term jail sentences (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-4). There are defenses to this very significant charge.

In some instances, items used as evidence against you to support prosecution for maintaining a production facility, such as a kitchen scale or plastic bags, may have legitimate noncriminal uses. Alternatively, a search of a residence by law enforcement could also have been unlawful.

Working with an experienced drug crime defense attorney is crucial in this type of charge.

Distributing CDS on or Near Certain Public Property (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7.1)

New Jersey is a densely populated state with many public parks, housing facilities, and public buildings, such as libraries or museums (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7.1). Distributing CDS within 500 feet of these public areas is a second-degree crime, and a conviction carries a potential penalty of substantial jail time and fines.

Distributing CDS on or Near School Property (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7)

A charge for selling or distributing controlled dangerous substances on or near 1,000 feet of school property is a very serious offense (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7). As a third-degree crime, the potential for a jail sentence is real. Conviction carries a potential penalty of three to five years of mandatory imprisonment. A strong criminal defense can negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecutor to try to get a jail sentence waived or reduced.

Strict Liability for Drug-Induced Deaths (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-9)

This first-degree crime carries the potential for a substantial prison sentence. This conviction falls under the provision of the No Early Release Act, meaning a significant portion of the sentence must be served before parole eligibility (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-9).

Unlike most other crimes needing proof of intent, this crime does not require the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt the dealer intended to cause the death of the user. New Jersey law holds the dealer strictly liable for the death resulting from the drugs distributed.

Drug-induced death cases are extremely complex and challenging and often require the knowledge of various professionals to present evidence and testimony. You need an experienced drug crime defense attorney to fight this type of case.

Criminal Defense Attorneys with Experience Handling Drug Crimes

At our firm, we recognize the vital role that drugs seized from a defendant’s person, car, or home play in the prosecution’s case.

Unfortunately, law enforcement can sometimes act overzealous when they suspect someone is in possession of a controlled dangerous substance. They will ask for consent to search or just conduct a search before receiving a search warrant from a judge or having a valid exception to search.

As case law evolves with new Supreme Court and Appellate Division decisions published almost monthly, it is crucial to stay updated on the latest developments that may impact your case. Our seasoned criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in these ever-changing legal landscapes.

We conduct a meticulous review of the events leading to your arrest and assess whether there is a possibility of excluding the seized evidence due to illegal search and seizure practices by the arresting or searching officers.

Why Should I Work with Lackey & Miller, LLC?

The New Jersey drug crime attorneys at Lackey & Miller, LLC have more than 20 years of experience serving as prosecutors with jury trial experience. Due to our extensive experience, we thoroughly understand how both sides of the aisle work. When it comes to cross-examination, we are effective, aggressive, and work tirelessly on behalf of our clients.

Why Do New Jersey Residents Trust Us?

Clients often turn to our law firm for criminal defense because they know they can count on an attorney who will push back and aggressively and tirelessly work on their behalf. We care about our clients and want to help protect them against unlawful charges. If there is validity to a charge, we will work hard to get charges lessened, work toward a plea bargain, or even have those charged dismissed.

The attorneys at Lackey & Miller, LLC strive to provide a high level of service and believe everyone deserves the right to be heard. Our caring attorneys will sit down with you and listen to your side of the story. We will work fiercely to protect your rights while providing aggressive advocacy, strategic advice, and personalized representation.

Testimonials

“Couldn’t be happier with the outcome of our case. From the initial consultation Jeremy Lackey listened to my concerns in a friendly, caring manner and helped to alleviate the anxiety and worry that I had. I would highly recommend this practice.” — KV.

“Very pleased with the outcome. Will refer to all those in need. Communication was clear from beginning to end. No false promises and exceeded expectations.” — JS.

Don’t Hesitate to Call Us for a Free Consultation

Facing a drug charge can be a terrifying experience, and the uncertainty of what will happen to you, or your family members can be frightening. If you find yourself facing a crime, whether it’s simple possession charges, carrying drug paraphernalia, or a more serious charge, such as drug manufacturing or intent to sell, you need an experienced New Jersey drug crime lawyer.

Lackey & Miller, LLC, located in Cherry Hill, aggressively advocates for New Jerseyans who face criminal drug-related offenses. We represent Camden County, Burlington County, Gloucester County, and the entirety of New Jersey. To schedule a free case evaluation, please call 856-399-0089 or contact us online.