Somerville Drug Possession Lawyer

Somerville Drug Possession Attorney

When you find yourself facing drug possession charges in Somerville, New Jersey, you may feel scared and overwhelmed. There are several intimidating penalties you might face if you are convicted, and the impact a conviction can have on your reputation could be devastating. For these reasons, it’s wise to seek the counsel and representation of a Somerville drug possession lawyer.

For over three decades, the team at Wronko & Loewen has been fighting for the rights of clients just like you. Whether your case is to be held at the Somerset County Superior Court or the Somerville Municipal Court, it’s vital to have a local attorney on your side who is familiar with these court systems, along with the judges and prosecutors operating inside. At Wronko & Loewen, we are here to protect your rights and your future.

An Introduction to Drug Possession in Somerville

In New Jersey, convictions for drug crimes can carry some unreasonable and lengthy punishments. Only an experienced criminal defense lawyer should be trusted with such important cases; the difference between a good lawyer and a great one can mean the difference between many years in prison and complete exoneration.

The lawyers of Wronko & Loewen have more than 80 combined years of experience helping people accused of all kinds of drug crimes, including drug possession and drug distribution. We have achieved success in many complex, large-scale criminal cases and we help clients with any drug charge, including possession, sale and intent to distribute, transport and trafficking, manufacture, and cultivation. We offer free initial consultations to anyone with a case pertaining to any controlled substance, from marijuana and prescription drugs (oxycodone) to cocaine, heroin, fentanyl and methamphetamine.​​​

Successfully defending against drug crimes is often a matter of investigating a case thoroughly to find any breaches of police procedure. An experienced lawyer can tell whether police broke any of the many laws pertaining to search and seizure or arrest; if so, your case can be thrown out of court.

Possession Charges in Somerville

In 2024, over 4,600 warrants were issued in New Jersey for drug-related arrests. Drug possession charges are typically dependent on the type and quantity of the drug or the controlled dangerous substance (CDS) involved in the case. If you have been arrested for possessing a drug of any kind in Somerville, the penalties you might face if convicted can change your life in many negative ways.

In New Jersey, it is illegal to possess several types of CDSs without a valid prescription. The penalties that might result from a conviction will vary depending on the amount found in your possession and the drug itself. The most common offenses related to illegal drugs or controlled substances in Somerville include:

• Possession of a CDS in Schedule I, II, III, or IV. If you are convicted of possessing a controlled dangerous substance that appears in these categories, such as MDMA, LSD, methamphetamine, heroin, or cocaine, you could face penalties for a third-degree crime, which may include several years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines.
• Possession of a CDS categorized as Schedule V. In New Jersey, being found in the possession of a Schedule V drug is considered a fourth-degree crime. These drugs typically have a lower potential for abuse than others and have some kind of accepted medical usage. They can include codeine, methylmorphine, opium, and diphenoxylate.

In addition to these crimes, you may also be convicted of possession of CDS or drug paraphernalia. You could face penalties like jail time, fines, and community service.

Common Defenses for New Jersey Possession Charges

At the time of your drug possession arrest, the police may act as though you have already been convicted. Despite what these law enforcement officers tell you, you are considered innocent until proven guilty under the law. It is your attorney’s job to maintain your innocence. The prosecution attached to your case will need to prove you are guilty in order to achieve an official conviction.

In Somerville, there are many reasons why drug possession charges are reduced or dismissed, and defendants are often acquitted. At Wronko & Loewen, we can review the details of your case and determine which avenue of defense will be most effective. Common drug possession defenses can include:

• The evidence being used against you was only obtained through an illegal search and seizure by law enforcement officers.
• The police did not have probable cause to stop you in a traffic stop and search your vehicle.
• You were not properly and promptly made aware of your Miranda rights while you were being arrested.
• Malfunctioning lab equipment or a break in the chain of custody has caused the evidence to become faulty.
• The drugs did not belong to you.

FAQs About Somerville, NJ Drug Possession Laws

Is It Considered a Felony to Be in Possession of Drugs in NJ?

Many drug possession charges in New Jersey are similar to felonies. The specifics of your criminal charge, however, will ultimately depend on the circumstances following your arrest. Having an attorney on your side can help you better understand whether you’re facing criminal charges and how to correctly defend yourself against them.

Will I Go to Jail if This Is My First Drug Possession Offense?

In Somerville, even if this is your first time being convicted of a drug possession offense, you may still face time in jail. The consequences you can face are all dependent on the type and amount of drugs found in your possession. However, with the right attorney’s legal counsel and representation, you may be able to avoid jail time, especially in cases when this is your first offense.

Why Should I Hire an Attorney for a Drug Possession Case?

Being successfully convicted of a drug possession crime can carry legal penalties like jail time and fines. It can also severely damage your personal and professional reputation, your life, your relationships, and even your career. For these reasons, it is vital that you retain the services of an attorney. A strong defense may be the only thing that keeps you from a conviction.

Will I Need to Enter Rehab if I’m Convicted of Drug Possession?

Some people convicted of drug possession charges may be required to attend drug rehabilitation programs, depending on the circumstances of their case and the drug involved. Heroin is often the most common drug that warrants the need for rehabilitation programs, with 32,779 cases of rehab admissions for this substance in 2021.

Speak With a Trusted Drug Possession Lawyer Today

If you or a family member has been arrested for a drug possession crime in Somerville, New Jersey, now is the time to reach out to the attorneys at Wronko & Loewen. We understand that you are likely feeling scared and overwhelmed, especially if this is your first time being arrested for charges of this nature. Thankfully, you do not need to face the legal system alone. Instead, contact our offices today and allow our team to fight for your rights.