Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer in Somerset County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
Unlawful 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. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges. An experienced unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer Somerset County can challenge evidence and seek reduced outcomes. Contact us for a case review.
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. This law makes it illegal to knowingly possess 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 drug involved. For example, possession of marijuana under 50 grams is a disorderly persons offense, while possession of heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine is typically an indictable crime (felony). The state’s drug laws are demanding and strictly enforced in Somerset County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, see N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and information, visit the Somerset Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for Drug Cases in Somerset County
If you are charged with unlawful possession in Somerset County, your case will begin in the Superior Court, Somerset Vicinage. The process is intensive. Prosecutors in Somerville often pursue standard penalties, but case specifics matter. An unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer Somerset County can identify procedural issues, such as problems with the stop, search, or chain of custody of the alleged substance. The firm’s experience with local practices is a key asset.
- Initial Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges against you in Superior Court and will enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your attorney will engage in discussions with the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, presenting defenses and negotiating for possible plea reductions or diversion programs like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI).
- Motion Practice: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were violated during the search or arrest.
- Resolution or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If a fair agreement cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare to defend you at trial before a judge or jury.
Potential Penalties for Drug Possession in NJ
In Somerset County, unlawful possession of a controlled substance carries penalties based on the drug schedule and amount, from 6 months in jail for a disorderly persons offense to 5 years in prison for an indictable crime.
| Offense (Substance) | 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 fines, probation |
| Prescription Drugs (w/o Rx) | Crime (degree varies) | Varies by schedule | Varies | Possible suspension | Criminal record, employment issues |
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, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. We understand that a drug charge can disrupt your life, affecting your job, family, and future. Our approach is to provide a strong, detail-oriented defense focused on protecting your rights and seeking a favorable resolution, whether through dismissal, reduction, or participation in a diversion program.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of advocating for clients facing drug charges. While results depend on the specific facts of each case, our firm-wide focus is on challenging the prosecution’s evidence and exploring all avenues for a favorable outcome. We have successfully argued for the suppression of illegally obtained evidence, negotiated for entry into diversionary programs like PTI, and secured reductions in charges for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Somerset County Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location represents clients throughout Somerset County, including those in Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, and Hillsborough. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206. If you need an unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer near me Somerset County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment at our Tinton Falls location. We serve surrounding neighborhoods like Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
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 discuss the case or consent to any searches. Contact an unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer Somerset County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Can I get a drug possession charge dismissed in NJ?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if your attorney successfully argues that your rights were violated, the evidence is insufficient, or you qualify for a diversion program like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI). An affordable unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer Somerset County can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the case against you.
Will I go to jail for a first-time possession charge?
Not necessarily. For a first-time disorderly persons offense (like small amount of marijuana), jail is often avoidable. For indictable crimes, an experienced lawyer can frequently negotiate for probation, PTI, or a county jail sentence instead of state prison. The specific facts are critical.
How much does a drug possession lawyer cost?
Costs vary based on the charge severity and the issues in dispute. Many firms, including ours, offer flexible payment plans. It is important to discuss fees during your initial consultation. Investing in a skilled unlawful possession of a controlled substance lawyer Somerset County can significantly impact the long-term consequences you face.
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, handled in Municipal Court with a maximum 6-month jail sentence. An indictable crime is similar to a felony, handled in Superior Court with potential state prison time. The type of drug and amount possessed determines the classification.
Related Legal Services in Somerset County
If you are facing other charges, our firm can help. We also handle DUI defense, federal crimes, and business law matters in Somerset County. For a broader view of our drug defense practice, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub page. We also represent clients in neighboring areas like Bergen 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 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 · Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer Bergen · Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer Hudson · Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Lawyer Monmouth County.