Marijuana and Drug Possession Certified Criminal Trial Attorney

Despite the national trend of legalization of marijuana for both recreational and medicinal purposes, New Jersey’s marijuana laws are especially harsh. Possession of pot is a criminal charge and the ramifications can affect your life and livelihood for years. By federal classification, marijuana is a Schedule I drug putting it in the same category as heroin and cocaine.

Years of experience have taught Certified Trial Attorney Michael Rubas that every marijuana case is fact sensitive and that a complete, well-planned defense is required. Rubas Law Offices explore every marijuana case to identify any issues that can assist in defending and/or negotiating the best outcome for our clients.

Consequences of Marijuana Possession

In New Jersey, an individual who is caught in possession of marijuana under 50 grams will be charged with a disorderly persons offense. Pursuant to the Criminal Code of New Jersey, an individual convicted of this offense will face 6 months of incarceration, fines up to a maximum amount of $1,000, and the loss of driving privileges for a period of 6 months to 2 years. If an individual is caught with more than 50 grams of marijuana, it is considered a fourth degree criminal offense. A fourth degree conviction can result in a State Prison sentence of 18 months, up to $25,000 in fines, and the loss of driving privileges for a period of 6 months to 2 years.

There are also other consequences of a conviction for a marijuana related offense. In addition to the fines and loss of driving privileges, you will have a criminal records which will be readily accessible to any employer in a background search. A drug conviction could preclude you from receiving a professional license in the fields of medicine, nursing, law, accounting, or pharmacy.

Michael Rubas has a Monmouth County office in Manasquan that serves clients at the Jersey Shore including, but not limited to, the municipalities of Asbury Park, Belmar, Manasquan, Neptune, Sea Girt, Spring Lake, and Wall as well as all Ocean County municipalities. The Jersey City office  serves clients in all Northern New Jersey Municipal Courts.