Burlington County Drug Trafficking Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Drug trafficking charges in Burlington County are prosecuted aggressively under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5, carrying severe penalties including decades in prison. As a former prosecutor, our firm understands the strategies used by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of serious drug crimes.
New Jersey Drug Trafficking Laws and Penalties
Drug trafficking, formally known as “manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing” a controlled dangerous substance (CDS), is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5. The severity of the charge depends on the type, weight, and alleged intent to distribute the substance. These are not simple possession cases; they are first-degree or second-degree indictable crimes that are handled in Superior Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Burlington County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature.
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We approach each case with a detailed understanding of both prosecution tactics and defense strategies.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures, visit the Burlington Vicinage website.
Local Defense Strategy for Burlington County
In Burlington County, drug cases often involve investigations by the Prosecutor’s Office’s Narcotics Task Force and local police. A common procedural fact is the use of confidential informants and controlled buys, which can be challenged on grounds of reliability and police procedure. An effective drug trafficking lawyer Burlington County must scrutinize the chain of custody for evidence and file motions to suppress improperly obtained statements or searches.
- Case Assessment: Immediately review the complaint, discovery, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions to challenge the legality of the search, seizure, or arrest.
- Negotiation: Engage with the prosecutor to seek a reduction in charges, such as from trafficking to a lesser possession offense, where possible.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea cannot be reached, prepare a vigorous trial defense focusing on reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for Drug Trafficking in New Jersey
In Burlington County, a drug trafficking conviction carries severe, mandatory penalties that increase based on the type and quantity of the controlled substance involved.
| Substance & Quantity (Examples) | Degree | Prison | Fine | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heroin/Cocaine 5 oz. or more | 1st Degree | 10-20 years (mandatory min.) | Up to $500,000 | Parole ineligibility, DEDR penalty |
| Heroin/Cocaine 0.5 oz. to 5 oz. | 2nd Degree | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Driver’s license suspension, fines |
| Marijuana 25 lbs. or more | 1st Degree | 10-20 years | Up to $300,000 | Asset forfeiture, criminal record |
| Marijuana 5 lbs. to 25 lbs. | 2nd Degree | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Parole ineligibility possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Drug Crime Defense
Our firm’s foundation by a former prosecutor provides a distinct advantage. We understand how the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office builds trafficking cases. This insight allows us to anticipate strategies and develop effective counter-arguments. Our team is committed to protecting your future against these life-altering charges.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of advocating for clients facing serious drug charges. We work to have evidence suppressed, charges reduced, or cases dismissed when the facts and law support it. Every case is unique, and we dedicate the resources necessary to build the strongest possible defense for your specific situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Burlington County Residents
Our firm serves clients throughout Burlington County, including near the Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly. We are accessible to communities like Willingboro, Maple Shade, Evesham, and Medford. If you need a drug possession defense lawyer Burlington County or a controlled substance charge lawyer Burlington County, we are here to help.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between drug possession and drug trafficking in NJ?
It depends on intent and quantity. Simple possession (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10) is for personal use. Trafficking (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5) involves manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing, or possessing a large quantity indicating intent to sell. The penalties for trafficking are far more severe.
Can police search my car during a traffic stop for drugs?
No, not without probable cause. An officer needs a warrant, your consent, or a valid exception like plain view or smell. A skilled drug trafficking lawyer Burlington County can file a motion to suppress evidence from an illegal search, which can lead to dismissed charges.
What are mandatory minimum sentences?
For certain weights of drugs like heroin or cocaine, New Jersey law requires a judge to impose a minimum prison term (e.g., one-third to one-half of the sentence) before parole eligibility. These are common in trafficking cases and make early defense critical.
What should I do if I am arrested for drug trafficking?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a defense lawyer as soon as possible to begin protecting your rights and building your defense strategy.
Can a first-time offender go to prison for drug trafficking?
Yes. New Jersey’s drug trafficking laws have severe penalties that do not exempt first-time offenders. Prison time is a likely outcome for a conviction, which is why having an experienced defense attorney is essential to fight the charges or seek a reduction.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also provides defense for federal crimes and weapons offenses in New Jersey.
Other Local Resources: For defense in nearby areas, see our pages for a drug crime lawyer Camden County and a drug crime lawyer Mercer County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (609)-983-0003 for current guidance.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.