Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer in Union County, NJ — What Are Your Rights?
A possession of a controlled substance charge in Union County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, carrying penalties from fines to years in prison. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients in Elizabeth, Westfield, and across Union County. If you need a possession of a controlled substance lawyer Union County, contact us as early as possible for a 24/7 consultation.
Understanding New Jersey Drug Possession Laws
In New Jersey, the crime of possession of a controlled substance is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. It is illegal to knowingly or purposely obtain, possess, or use a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) without a valid prescription. The severity of the charge and its penalties depend heavily on the type and amount of the substance, as classified in Schedules I through V of the New Jersey Controlled Dangerous Substances Act.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose experience on both sides of the courtroom informs our defense strategies.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 (New Jersey Legislature). For local court procedures and information, visit the Union Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court website.
Local Court Process for Drug Possession Cases in Union County
Most possession of a controlled substance cases in Union County begin with an arrest and are heard in the Superior Court, Criminal Division, in Elizabeth. Prosecutors in this vicinage actively pursue drug charges, making early and skilled legal intervention critical. An affordable possession of a controlled substance lawyer Union County can handle this process to seek a favorable outcome.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, allowing your attorney to begin building your defense.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer will review all evidence and may file motions to challenge the legality of the stop, search, or seizure.
- Negotiations & Diversion Programs: Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor, potentially seeking a plea deal, downgrade, or entry into a pre-trial intervention (PTI) program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to trial before a judge or jury in the Union County Courthouse.
Potential Penalties for Drug Possession in NJ
In Union County, possession of a controlled substance carries a wide range of penalties, from disorderly persons offenses for small amounts of marijuana to indictable crimes (felonies) for other drugs, with potential prison time.
| Offense (Substance/Amount) | 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 |
| Schedule I-IV CDS (e.g., cocaine, heroin, prescription drugs) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $35,000 | Mandatory 6-24 month suspension | Driver Responsibility Fees, permanent criminal record |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | 2nd or 1st Degree Crime | 5-20 years | Up to $500,000 | Mandatory suspension | Parole ineligibility, enhanced penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Union County Drug Charge
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands the tactics used by the state. We are committed to “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing relentless defense for clients across New Jersey. When searching for a possession of a controlled substance lawyer near me Union County, our local knowledge and extensive resources are critical advantages.
Our Approach to Drug Possession Cases
We challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s case, from the initial traffic stop or search warrant to the handling of evidence and lab reports. Our goal is to secure dismissals, reductions, or alternative resolutions like PTI to protect your future. With a firm-wide record of over 4,739 case results and a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%, our systematic approach is designed to protect your rights and future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Union 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 the Union County courts in Elizabeth. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, and I-78. If you need a possession of a controlled substance lawyer near me Union County, we represent individuals from Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Possession of a Controlled Substance in Union County
Is possession of a controlled substance a felony in New Jersey?
Yes, possession of most controlled dangerous substances (like cocaine, heroin, or meth) is an indictable crime, which is New Jersey’s equivalent of a felony. The degree (3rd, 2nd, or 1st) depends on the type and amount of the drug.
Can I go to PTI for a drug possession charge in Union County?
It depends. Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is often available for first-time offenders charged with a 3rd or 4th degree crime. Acceptance is not automatic; a strong application from your attorney highlighting your background and the circumstances is important for the prosecutor and judge’s approval.
What is the difference between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute?
The key difference is intent. Simple possession is for personal use. Intent to distribute is charged if circumstances suggest plans to sell (e.g., large quantity, baggies, scales, large cash). PWID carries far more severe penalties, including mandatory prison time for higher degrees.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a drug conviction in NJ?
Yes. A conviction for most drug offenses, including simple possession, triggers a mandatory driver’s license suspension of 6 to 24 months under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-16, regardless of whether a vehicle was involved in the crime.
How can an affordable possession of a controlled substance lawyer Union County help me?
An experienced lawyer can challenge the state’s evidence, negotiate for reduced charges or PTI, and advocate for you in court. The long-term cost of a conviction (fines, lost jobs, suspended license) far outweighs the investment in a qualified defense attorney.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI cases in Union County and federal criminal charges. For a broader view of our New Jersey practice, visit our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page. We also serve clients in nearby counties like Bergen County and Middlesex County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For current guidance on your specific situation, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Your case in Union 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 Union County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage (12th Vicinage), 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07207, telephone (908) 787-1650, 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 Union 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: Union 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.