Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer in Somerset County, NJ — What Are Your Rights?
Possession of a controlled substance in Somerset County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, with penalties ranging from fines to years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges. If you need a possession of a controlled substance lawyer Somerset County, contact us as early as possible to protect your rights and future.
New Jersey Drug Possession Laws
In New Jersey, drug possession is governed by the full Drug Reform Act, specifically N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. The severity of the charge depends on the type and amount of the substance, as well as the location of the offense (e.g., near a school). A simple possession charge can escalate to a more serious crime like possession with intent to distribute based on circumstantial evidence.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand how prosecutors in Somerset County build these cases and how to challenge the evidence against you.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s drug possession statutes, visit the New Jersey Legislature website for N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. For local court procedures and information, refer to the Somerset Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court.
Local Court Process for Drug Charges in Somerset County
Drug possession cases in Somerset County begin with an arrest and are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division-Criminal Part. Prosecutors here often pursue strict penalties, especially for offenses involving certain substances or occurring in designated zones. An affordable possession of a controlled substance lawyer Somerset County can be critical in handling this process.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be processed, and a complaint will be filed. Your first court appearance will be scheduled.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable pre-trial intervention (PTI) program or a plea deal before the case goes to a grand jury.
- Indictment and Arraignment: If indicted by a grand jury, you will be formally arraigned on the charges in Superior Court.
- Discovery and Motions: Your lawyer will review all evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be based on statutory guidelines and any mitigating factors presented by your defense.
Potential Penalties for Drug Possession in NJ
In Somerset County, possession of a controlled substance carries penalties based on the drug’s schedule, from disorderly persons offenses to indictable crimes with significant prison time.
| 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 CDS (Schedule I-IV, e.g., cocaine, heroin) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $35,000 | 6-24 month suspension | Mandatory fines and penalties |
| Possession of CDS (Schedule V) | 4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $15,000 | Possible suspension | Court-ordered penalties |
| Possession within 1,000 ft of a School Zone | Enhanced Penalties | Mandatory minimum, often 1-3 years | Higher fines | Mandatory suspension | Parole ineligibility periods apply |
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. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients across our service areas. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom.
Our Approach to Drug Possession Cases
We focus on building a defense that challenges the prosecution’s case at every stage. This includes examining the legality of the traffic stop or search that led to your arrest, questioning the chain of custody of the alleged substance, and exploring all options for diversionary programs like PTI. Our goal is to seek a favorable resolution, whether that is a dismissal, reduction of charges, or an alternative sentence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Drug Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Somerset County. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206. If you are searching for a possession of a controlled substance lawyer near me Somerset County, we are here to help.
Neighborhoods Served: Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, Bedminster.
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
What should I do if I’m arrested for drug possession in Somerset 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 a controlled substance lawyer Somerset County as soon as possible to start building your defense.
Can I go to jail for a first-time drug possession charge?
It depends on the substance and amount. For marijuana under 50 grams, jail is possible but not mandatory. For possession of harder drugs like cocaine or heroin (a 3rd-degree crime), state prison time of 3-5 years is a statutory possibility, though first-time offenders may be eligible for probation or PTI.
What is the difference between a disorderly persons offense and an indictable crime?
In New Jersey, a disorderly persons offense is similar to a misdemeanor and is handled in Municipal Court. An indictable crime is similar to a felony and is handled in Superior Court. Most drug possession charges, except for small amounts of marijuana, are indictable crimes.
What is a school zone enhancement?
If you are arrested for possession within 1,000 feet of a school property, the penalties are significantly enhanced. This includes mandatory minimum prison sentences and higher fines, regardless of whether school was in session.
Is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) an option for drug possession?
Yes. PTI is a diversion program for first-time, non-violent offenders. If successfully completed, the charges are dismissed. Eligibility depends on the specific charge, your criminal history, and the prosecutor’s discretion. An attorney can advocate for your admission into PTI.
Internal Resources
For more information on related legal matters, explore our pages on federal criminal defense in Somerset County or DUI charges in Somerset County. Learn more about our firm-wide practice on our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Somerset 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 Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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 Somerset 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: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory · Bergen County NJ Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer · Hudson County NJ Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer · Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer Monmouth County.