Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer in Monmouth County, NJ
Possession of a controlled substance in Monmouth County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, carrying penalties from fines to years in prison. A conviction can derail your future. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges in Freehold and surrounding communities. Contact a possession of a controlled substance lawyer Monmouth County at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
What Is Possession of a Controlled Substance in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the crime of possession of a controlled substance is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. The law makes it illegal to knowingly or purposely obtain, possess, or use 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 classified by the state’s drug schedules.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Monmouth Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how prosecutors in Monmouth County build these cases. The state must prove you had control over the substance and knew of its nature. An experienced possession of a controlled substance lawyer Monmouth County can challenge the evidence on these precise points.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 (official New Jersey Legislature)
- Monmouth Vicinage Superior Court
Handling a Possession Charge in Monmouth County Court
If you are charged with possession in Monmouth County, your case will begin in the Superior Court, Criminal Division, in Freehold. The process is formal and moves quickly. Prosecutors here often seek standard penalties, but the right defense strategy can create use for a better outcome.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence and may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
- Negotiations: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Assistant Prosecutor for a reduction, PTI, or other favorable disposition.
- Trial or Resolution: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to trial. Otherwise, the agreed-upon resolution is presented to the judge.
Potential Penalties for Drug Possession in NJ
In Monmouth County, possession of a controlled substance carries a wide range of penalties, from disorderly persons offenses to indictable crimes, depending on the drug type and amount.
| Offense (Substance Type) | Classification | 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 (any amount) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $35,000 | 6-24 month suspension | Mandatory DEDR penalty, probation |
| Prescription Drugs (w/o Rx) | 3rd or 4th Degree Crime | Up to 5 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible suspension | Loss of professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
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 bring substantial knowledge to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. We focus on building a defense specific to the facts of your case and the procedures of the Monmouth County courts.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results in Monmouth County are not disclosed, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. We have secured dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions for clients facing serious drug charges. Every case is different, but our systematic approach to challenging the prosecution’s evidence is consistent.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Monmouth 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) 651-0900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Monmouth County courts in Freehold. We represent individuals from Freehold, Tinton Falls, Red Bank, Long Branch, Asbury Park, Middletown, Holmdel, Marlboro, Manalapan, Howell, Wall Township, Neptune, and Colts Neck. For an affordable possession of a controlled substance lawyer Monmouth County residents can trust, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation. Meetings are by appointment only. If you need a possession of a controlled substance lawyer near me Monmouth County, our local team is ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is possession of a controlled substance a felony in New Jersey?
Yes, possession of most hard drugs like heroin or cocaine is an indictable crime (New Jersey’s term for felony), typically a 3rd-degree offense. Possession of a small amount of marijuana may be a disorderly persons offense (similar to a misdemeanor).
Can I get PTI for a first-time drug possession charge?
It depends. Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is often available for first-time, non-violent offenders charged with 3rd or 4th degree crimes. However, admission is not guaranteed. The prosecutor can object, and the judge makes the final decision. A lawyer can advocate strongly for your admission.
What is the police find drugs in my car but they aren’t mine?
The state must prove you knowingly possessed the drugs. Mere presence is not enough. A defense can argue you lacked control or knowledge of the substance. This is a common and effective challenge to the prosecution’s case that requires detailed legal argument.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a drug conviction?
Yes. A conviction for possession of a controlled substance under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 carries a mandatory driver’s license suspension of at least 6 months, and up to 2 years, regardless of whether a vehicle was involved.
What are the long-term consequences of a possession conviction?
A conviction creates a permanent criminal record, affecting employment, housing, student loans, and professional licenses. You may also face difficulties with firearm ownership and could be subject to enhanced penalties for any future offenses.
Your case in Monmouth 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 Monmouth County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Monmouth Vicinage (9th Vicinage), 71 Monument Park, Freehold, NJ 07728, telephone (732) 677-4200, 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 Monmouth 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: Monmouth County NJ lawyers directory · Bergen County NJ Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer · Hudson County NJ Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer.