Possession of CDS Lawyer in Bergen County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) in Bergen County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, with penalties ranging from fines to years in prison. A conviction can derail your future. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing these charges in Hackensack and Paramus courts.
New Jersey Law on Drug Possession
In New Jersey, the term “Controlled Dangerous Substance” (CDS) includes illegal drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, as well as the unlawful possession of prescription medications. The severity of a possession of CDS charge depends on the type and amount of the substance, your prior record, and the location of the arrest (e.g., near a school). Defending these charges requires a detailed understanding of the law and local court procedures.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s drug possession statutes, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For information on court procedures in Bergen County, visit the Bergen Vicinage website.
Handling a CDS Case in Bergen County
In the Bergen County Superior Court, prosecutors handle a high volume of drug cases. An early and strategic defense is critical. The court operates under specific local rules and case management tracks that can affect the timeline and strategy of your defense.
- Post-Arrest Consultation: Contact a possession of CDS lawyer Bergen County as early as possible after arrest to protect your rights during questioning and arraignment.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all police reports, lab results, and body-cam footage to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: A key step is filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure, which can lead to charge dismissal.
- Negotiation & Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, diversion program like PTI, or prepare for trial.
- Resolution: The case concludes through a negotiated plea, successful completion of a diversion program, or a trial verdict.
Potential Penalties for CDS Possession in NJ
In Bergen County, penalties for possession of CDS vary widely, from disorderly persons offenses with up to 6 months in jail to indictable crimes with multi-year prison terms.
| Substance / Circumstance | Charge Level | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marijuana under 50g | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible 6-24 month suspension | Drug education, community service |
| Heroin/Cocaine (small amount) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $35,000 | Mandatory 6-24 month suspension | Mandatory fines and penalties |
| Possession near School Zone | Enhanced 3rd Degree | 3-5 years (mandatory min.) | Up to $150,000 | Mandatory suspension | Parole ineligibility, enhanced fines |
| Prescription Drugs (unlawful) | 3rd or 4th Degree Crime | Up to 5 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible suspension | Professional license implications |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in New Jersey Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled thousands of criminal matters, developing a focused approach to defending drug charges. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands the strategies used by the state.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. While every case is unique, our approach is case-specific to seek a favorable result, whether that is a dismissal, reduction, or alternative sentencing.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Bergen County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 334-7465
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Bergen County courts in Hackensack. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17. If you are searching for a possession of CDS lawyer near me Bergen County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. We serve communities including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m arrested for drug possession in Bergen County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not answer questions or consent to any searches without an attorney present. Contact a possession of CDS lawyer Bergen County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Can I get a drug possession charge dismissed in NJ?
It depends. Dismissals are possible if your attorney successfully challenges the legality of the traffic stop, the search of your person or vehicle, or the handling of the evidence. An experienced affordable possession of CDS lawyer Bergen County can identify these procedural defenses.
What is the difference between a disorderly persons offense and an indictable crime for drug possession?
In New Jersey, a disorderly persons offense (e.g., under 50g of marijuana) is handled in Municipal Court with a maximum 6-month jail sentence. An indictable crime (like possession of heroin) is a felony-equivalent handled in Superior Court with potential state prison time.
Am I eligible for a diversion program like PTI?
It depends on your criminal history, the specific charges, and the county. First-time offenders charged with certain lower-level CDS crimes may be eligible for Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
How much does a drug possession lawyer cost?
Legal fees vary based on the charge severity and the issues in dispute. Many firms, including ours, offer flexible payment structures. It is important to discuss fees upfront when consulting with an affordable possession of CDS lawyer Bergen County.
Related Legal Help
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI cases in Bergen County and federal criminal charges. For a broader view of our New Jersey practice, visit our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Atlantic County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Indictable charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division; disorderly-persons offenses are heard in the municipal court where the charge was filed. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Possession of Cds Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Possession of Cds Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.