Simple Possession Lawyer in Middlesex County, NJ — What Are Your Defenses?
Simple possession of a controlled substance in Middlesex County is a disorderly persons offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10(a)(1), carrying up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges, emphasizing personal use and procedural rights. A skilled simple possession lawyer Middlesex County can challenge evidence and seek alternatives like conditional discharge.
New Jersey Drug Possession Law
In New Jersey, drug possession is governed by the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, specifically Title 2C. Simple possession, defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, is typically charged as a disorderly persons offense for most controlled dangerous substances (CDS). This classification applies when the amount possessed is consistent with personal use rather than distribution. The state must prove you knowingly possessed a CDS. Defenses often challenge the legality of the search, the chain of custody of the evidence, or whether you had actual or constructive possession. A drug possession defense lawyer Middlesex County examines these elements closely.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Middlesex Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 (New Jersey Legislature). For local court procedures, visit the Middlesex Vicinage website.
Local Defense Strategy in Middlesex County
Middlesex County courts handle simple possession cases in Municipal Court. New Jersey’s conditional discharge program under N.J.S.A. 2C:36A-1 is a critical option for first-time offenders charged with simple possession. Successful completion of supervision results in dismissal. A personal use defense lawyer Middlesex County will also scrutinize police reports for Fourth Amendment violations, as improper stops or searches can lead to evidence suppression. The court at 56 Paterson Street in New Brunswick sees many such cases.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or summons.
- Your attorney will review the complaint and police reports for constitutional violations.
- If eligible, file a formal application for Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) or conditional discharge.
- Negotiate with the municipal prosecutor for a favorable disposition, potentially avoiding a criminal record.
- If necessary, prepare for trial and challenge the state’s evidence.
- Upon successful completion of any program, file for an expungement after the statutory waiting period.
Potential Penalties for Simple Possession
In Middlesex County, simple possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) is a disorderly persons offense with penalties of up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine, plus mandatory fees and driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession of CDS (Personal Use) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | 6-24 month suspension | Drug Enforcement and Demand Reduction (DEDR) penalty, court costs, conditional discharge possible. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a foundational understanding of how drug cases are built and challenged. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years, with a documented record of favorable outcomes. We approach each case with a focus on protecting your rights and exploring every legal avenue, from pre-trial motions to negotiated resolutions.
Case Results
While specific results are confidential, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in drug possession cases across our practice areas. We have secured dismissals, reductions, and successful entries into diversionary programs like conditional discharge for clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation in Middlesex County
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 throughout Middlesex County. We are accessible from New Brunswick, Edison, Woodbridge, and surrounding communities via the NJ Turnpike and Route 18. As a simple possession lawyer Middlesex County residents can consult, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is simple possession a felony in New Jersey?
No. Simple possession for personal use is typically a disorderly persons offense, which is New Jersey’s equivalent of a misdemeanor. It is not an indictable crime (felony).
What is conditional discharge for drug possession?
It is a diversion program for first-time offenders charged with simple possession. If you complete a period of supervision, the charges are dismissed. A drug possession defense lawyer Middlesex County can file the application on your behalf.
Can I get a possession charge expunged in NJ?
Yes, after a waiting period. A disorderly persons offense like simple possession can generally be expunged three years after completion of your sentence, provided you have no other convictions.
What should I do if I’m charged with simple possession?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a lawyer as early as possible to discuss your case and protect your rights. An early intervention by a personal use defense lawyer Middlesex County can be important for exploring diversion programs.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a drug possession conviction?
Yes. A conviction for simple possession 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.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing charges in Middlesex County, you may also need information on DUI defense or New Jersey criminal law. For charges in a neighboring area, consult a criminal defense lawyer in Somerset County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Middlesex County cases are handled by our New Jersey simple possession practice, where the whole process is set out.
If your case reaches beyond Middlesex County, our page on simple possession cases across Virginia sets out what to look for at each stage.
Your case in Middlesex County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Middlesex County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Middlesex Vicinage (6th Vicinage), 56 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, telephone (732) 981-3000, 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 N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (aggravated sexual assault) within the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Middlesex 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: Middlesex County NJ lawyers directory · Simple Possession Lawyer Essex County, NJ.