Drug Charges

When a juvenile is caught in possession of drugs in New Jersey, nearly every aspect of the case and charges is different than when the defendant is an adult.

First, it is mandatory that juveniles be represented in drug cases in New Jersey, and it’s vital that you hire an experienced attorney who can protect your rights, argue a cogent case in your defense, and fully inform you of your options at every step.

The penalties you may face are similar to those faced by adults charged in drug crimes, but any time you are sentenced to would be served in a juvenile detention facility instead of jail.

For many reasons, avoiding a criminal conviction at any age, and any sort of confinement, is preferable for most people.

Matthew Reisig understands that the stakes are high for anyone charged with a drug crime in New Jersey, but especially for young people who may face limitations on educational opportunities, student loans, housing, employment, and more with a past criminal conviction.

Fight back – and get a result that keeps your future open to all possibilities. Call 732-625-9661 today for a free consultation.

New Jersey’s Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI) is an alternative model that allows defendants, usually first time offenders, to avoid prosecution for a crime by agreeing to undertake a period of supervised rehabilitative services designed to address the causes of criminal behavior.

Adults with no previous criminal record, charged with crimes that are likely to land them in jail, are usually eligible to apply for PTI, and if successfully completed, PTI means you don’t have to worry about a criminal record going forward.

You’ll agree to a one- to three-year period of monitoring, during which time you’ll submit to random drug screenings, perform community service, pay restitution to victims, attend drug and alcohol counseling, and meet other requirements imposed by the court.

For many people, PTI is a way to remain in the community, on the job, and with family and friends while they attempt to deal with the underlying causes of the behavior that got them in trouble in the first place.

If PTI is an option for you, it’s strongly worth considering.

Call Matthew Reisig at 732-625-9661 and learn how PTI can protect you now and in the future.

In certain circumstances, New Jersey allows some persons charged in disorderly persons offenses (usually drug possession) to undergo a diversionary program instead of standing trial.

You are only eligible for Conditional Discharge if you haven’t been convicted of drug offenses in the past, and you have not previously used the CD system or other pre-trial intervention.

If you agree to a Conditional Discharge, you’re agreeing to a one- to three-year supervisory period by the court.

You’ll usually be required to enroll in a drug treatment program, and you’ll be subjected to random drug tests.

There are fees associated with Conditional Discharge, but most of our clients consider that a small price to pay to avoid jail time and the fines associated with a drug conviction.

If you meet the terms of the CD and are not arrested again during the supervisory period, your case will end with the court dismissing the charges against you.

You’ll have no criminal record, and six months after a successful completion, you will be able to expunge the arrest record, too. However, if you fail to meet the terms of the CD, the original case will resume.

If you’re facing drug charges in New Jersey, it’s important that you make informed decisions and consult reliable legal counsel.

Call Matthew Reisig today at 732-625-9661 for a consultation with an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney.