Camden County Possession Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Drug possession charges in Camden County, NJ, are serious offenses under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, carrying penalties from fines to years in prison. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for these cases. An experienced possession lawyer in Camden County is critical to challenge evidence and protect your future. Contact us for a case review.
Understanding New Jersey Drug Possession Laws
In New Jersey, drug possession is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. The law prohibits the knowing or intentional possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) without a valid prescription. The severity of the charge depends heavily on the type and amount of the substance, as well as the location of the alleged offense (e.g., near a school zone).
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997, our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands the strategies used by the state.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and forms, visit the Camden Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court website.
Local Court Process for Possession Charges in Camden County
Possession cases in Camden County typically begin in the Superior Court, Law Division, Criminal Part. Prosecutors in this vicinage often pursue charges aggressively, especially for Schedule I or II drugs like heroin or cocaine. The process involves an initial appearance, pre-indictment conferences, possible grand jury indictment, and extensive discovery.
- Initial Appearance & Complaint: You will be formally charged via a complaint. The judge will review conditions of release.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor for a downgrade, dismissal, or PTI referral before the case goes to a grand jury.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: If the state proceeds, a grand jury will decide if there is probable cause to issue an indictment.
- Discovery & Motions: Your lawyer will obtain all evidence (police reports, lab tests) and file motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If a fair offer isn’t reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Diversion: If convicted, sentencing follows. Successful completion of PTI or another program results in dismissal of charges.
Potential Penalties for Drug Possession in NJ
In Camden County, drug possession penalties range from a disorderly persons offense with up to 6 months in jail for small amounts of marijuana to a first-degree crime with 10-20 years in prison for large quantities of Schedule I or II drugs.
| Offense (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Marijuana (under 50g) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible 6-24 month suspension | Drug education, community service |
| Possession of Hashish (under 5g) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible 6-24 month suspension | Drug education, community service |
| Possession of Other CDS (e.g., cocaine, heroin) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $35,000 | 6-24 month suspension | Mandatory DEDR penalty, lab fee |
| Possession w/ Intent to Distribute (varies) | 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Degree Crime | 5-20 years | Up to $500,000 | Mandatory suspension | Parole ineligibility, extended term possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Camden County Possession Case
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, we have a deep understanding of New Jersey’s criminal justice system. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients regardless of the complexity of their case. We focus on building a strong, fact-based defense from the moment you contact us.
Our Approach to Possession Defense
We begin every case by scrutinizing the legality of the stop, search, and seizure. Was there probable cause? Was your Miranda rights warning proper? We then challenge the forensic evidence, demanding lab reports and analyst testimony. For many clients, we seek admission into diversionary programs like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) or conditional discharge, which can lead to a clean record upon successful completion.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Camden County Possession Lawyers
If you need a possession lawyer near me Camden County, our New Jersey location serves clients throughout the area. We are accessible via I-76, Route 70, and the PATCO Speedline.
Neighborhoods Served: Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield, Collingswood, Pennsauken, Winslow, Haddon Township, Berlin, Lindenwold.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Possession Charges in Camden County
What should I do if I’m arrested for possession in Camden County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a possession lawyer as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Can I get a possession charge dismissed in New Jersey?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if your rights were violated during the stop or search, if the evidence is weak, or if you successfully complete a diversion program like PTI for eligible first-time offenders. An affordable possession lawyer Camden County can evaluate the specific avenues for dismissal in your case.
What is the difference between a disorderly persons offense and a crime for possession?
A disorderly persons offense for small amounts of marijuana is handled in Municipal Court with a maximum 6-month jail sentence. Possession of other drugs like cocaine is a 3rd-degree indictable crime, handled in Superior Court with potential state prison time of 3-5 years.
How can a lawyer help with a possession charge?
A possession lawyer can file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, negotiate for PTI or conditional discharge, challenge the state’s lab analysis, and advocate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing at trial. Early legal intervention is key.
What are the long-term consequences of a possession conviction?
Beyond jail and fines, a conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, suspension of your driver’s license, and ineligibility for federal student aid and public housing.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI cases in Camden County and federal criminal charges. For broader information, see our New Jersey criminal defense hub. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Burlington County.
Page Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.