Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer in Gloucester County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
Unlawful possession of a controlled substance in Gloucester County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, with penalties ranging from probation to years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense representation for these charges. If you need an unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer Gloucester County, contact us as early as possible for a 24/7 consultation.
New Jersey Law on Drug Possession
In New Jersey, the charge of unlawful possession of a controlled substance is governed by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. The law prohibits knowingly or purposely obtaining or possessing 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 involved, as drugs are classified into schedules by the state.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 (New Jersey Legislature). For local court procedures and information, visit the Gloucester Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for Drug Possession Cases
In Gloucester County, unlawful possession cases are heard in the Superior Court, Criminal Division. The process typically begins with an arraignment where you enter a plea. New Jersey’s bail reform laws mean a pretrial detention hearing may occur shortly after arrest to determine if you will be released. The case then proceeds through discovery, potential plea negotiations, and possibly a trial.
- Secure an unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer Gloucester County immediately after arrest.
- Attend the arraignment and detention hearing in Superior Court.
- Review all discovery evidence with your attorney.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, PTI, or other favorable disposition.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Unlawful Possession in NJ
In Gloucester County, unlawful possession of a controlled substance carries penalties based on the drug schedule, from a disorderly persons offense for small amounts of marijuana to indictable crimes (felonies) for other substances.
| Substance (Example) | 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 |
| Cocaine, Heroin (any amount) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $35,000 | 6-24 month suspension | Mandatory Drug Court or probation, fines |
| LSD, Peyote | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $35,000 | 6-24 month suspension | Mandatory parole, DEDR penalty |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a drug possession charge and work to protect your future.
Our Approach to Drug Possession Cases
We challenge the legality of the stop, search, and seizure that led to the arrest. We scrutinize the chain of custody of the alleged substance and the procedures used for field testing and lab analysis. Our goal is to seek case dismissal, reduction to a lesser offense, or entry into a diversion program like PTI to avoid a permanent criminal record.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Gloucester County Drug Possession Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Gloucester County, including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, and Glassboro. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with unlawful possession in Gloucester County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact an unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer near me Gloucester County as early as possible. We can advise you on the detention process and begin building your defense.
Can I get a drug possession charge expunged in NJ?
It depends on the degree of the offense and your prior record. Most disorderly persons offenses and some indictable crimes are eligible for expungement after a waiting period (typically 3-5 years). An attorney can review your eligibility.
What is the difference between possession and possession with intent to distribute?
Possession is for personal use. Intent to distribute is a far more serious charge, requiring evidence you planned to sell the drugs. Factors include quantity, packaging, scales, or large amounts of cash. An affordable unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer Gloucester County can fight the intent element.
Is Pretrial Intervention (PTI) an option for a first-time drug charge?
Yes, PTI is a common option for first-time, non-violent offenders charged with a 3rd or 4th degree crime. Successful completion results in dismissal of charges. An attorney’s advocacy is important for PTI admission.
How long does a drug possession case take?
A disorderly persons offense may resolve in a few months. An indictable degree crime can take a year or more, depending on motions, negotiations, and whether the case goes to trial.
Related Legal Services in Gloucester County
If you are facing other charges, we also assist with DUI defense, federal crimes, and traffic violations. For a broader view of our New Jersey practice, visit our NJ criminal defense hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Camden County and Burlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Gloucester 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 Gloucester County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage (15th Vicinage), 70 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096, telephone (856) 853-3200, 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 Gloucester 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: Gloucester County NJ lawyers directory · Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer Bergen · Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer Hudson · Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Lawyer Monmouth County.