Possession or Distribution of Marijuana in West Long Branch NJ
West Long Branch has a large number of marijuana charges every year as the home of Monmouth University. Most of the charges involve possession of 50 grams or less although the municipality has a number of marijuana distribution cases. If you or a loved one has been charged with possession of marijuana or intent to distribute this form of CDS in the Borough of West Long Branch, our criminal firm is equipped to assist you. The defense team at The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall is the largest in Monmouth County and features several former prosecutors among our eight highly experienced attorneys. A lawyer with the knowledge and expertise necessary to effectively defend your West Long Branch drug offense is ready to speak to you in a free consultation. Call us anytime 24/7 at 732-450-8300.
West Long Branch Marijuana Possession Charge
The biggest block of charges filed in West Long Branch are possession of 50 grams or less of marijuana. This variety of violation is a disorderly persons offense with jurisdiction resting with the West Long Branch Municipal Court. Do not be mistaken in thinking, however, that this offense is something to take lightly. A conviction will leave you with a record, a fine that can reach $1,000, up to six months in the county jail, and result in a suspension of your license for 6-24 months. When the quantity of marijuana possessed is 50 grams or more, N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 makes this violation a fourth degree crime. Fourth degree marijuana possession can only be dealt with in Freehold at the Superior Court and carries the potential for up to 18 months in state prison and a fine of as much as $10,000.
Distribution of Marijuana in West Long Branch
Manufacturing, selling, distributing or possession with intent to distribute marijuana is criminalized under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5. This law makes it a fourth, third, second or first degree crime to engage in any form of trafficking marijuana in West Long Branch. If the quantity involved is 25 pounds or more, the offense is a first degree crime that results in up to a $300,000 fine and 20 years in prison. Distribution of at least 5 pounds but less than 25 pounds is a second degree crime that carries maximum penalties that include a $150,000 fine and 10 years in prison. Third degree possession with intent to distribute marijuana applies where the quantity is one ounce or more but less than 5 pounds and triggers a potential fine of $25,000 and up to 5 years of incarceration. Distributing a quantity of less than one ounce in Long Branch is a fourth degree crime that can cause you to be fined up to $10,000 and serve 18 months in prison. The 6-24 month driver’s license suspension previously set forth also applies in the case of distribution of marijuana.
West Long Branch Marijuana Possession Attorney
Serious problems can obviously be created by a conviction for possession of marijuana or, worse yet, distributing this drug. While individuals tend to view marijuana less seriously than CDS like cocaine or heroin, reality is that New Jersey law continues to take a hard line on this drug. You need to accept this fact along with the bona fide risk of significant consequences if you fail to successfully defend the charge. Hiring a savvy attorney will be your natural reaction if you appreciate these circumstances. The lawyers at The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall are ready to assist you in this capacity. Call us at 732-450-8300 for an immediate free consultation.
