Charged with a Drug Offense in New Jersey? We Fight for Your Freedom and Future

Drug arrests in New Jersey can lead to serious consequences—even for a small amount of marijuana, prescription pills, or paraphernalia. A conviction can carry jail time, fines, loss of driving privileges, and a criminal record that affects employment, education, and immigration status.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we defend clients throughout Cherry Hill, Camden County, and South Jersey against state and municipal drug charges. Whether you’re facing possession, distribution, or intent to distribute, we build a strong defense focused on protecting your rights, limiting penalties, and keeping your record clean.

Types of Drug Charges We Defend

We represent clients charged under N.J.S.A. Title 2C, including:

• Possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS)
• Marijuana, cocaine, heroin, MDMA, methamphetamine, or fentanyl
• Prescription fraud (Adderall, Xanax, Oxycodone)
• Distribution or intent to distribute drugs
• Drug possession in a school zone or public park
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Possession with intent to distribute near schools (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7)
• CDS in a motor vehicle (2C:35-10 and Title 39)
• Synthetic cannabinoids or designer drugs
• Juvenile drug charges

We also defend related charges such as resisting arrest or obstruction that often occur during a drug stop.

Penalties for Drug Convictions in New Jersey

Drug penalties vary based on the type, quantity, and location of the alleged offense:

• Disorderly persons offense (misdemeanor): Up to 6 months in jail, fines, probation, license suspension
• Third-degree indictable offense (felony): 3–5 years in prison, up to $35,000 in fines
• Second-degree offense: 5–10 years in prison, enhanced sentencing for school zone or public area
• First-degree offense: 10–20 years for large-scale trafficking or production

A conviction can also result in ineligibility for public housing, student loans, and some professional licenses.

Diversion Programs and Alternatives to Conviction

For eligible clients, we pursue non-criminal outcomes such as:

• Conditional Discharge (for first-time disorderly persons offenses)
• Pretrial Intervention (PTI) for certain indictable charges
• Drug Court for those with addiction issues and multiple offenses
• Downgrades to municipal ordinance violations
• Expungement for past drug offenses after the statutory waiting period

Our goal is to protect your record and avoid long-term consequences whenever possible.

Where We Handle Drug Cases in South Jersey

We defend drug charges in:

• Camden County Superior Court – Criminal Division
• Cherry Hill, Pennsauken, and Gloucester Township Municipal Courts
• Burlington and Gloucester County courts
• Juvenile courts for minors accused of possession or use
• Expungement proceedings for drug-related records

We handle pre-indictment negotiations, detention hearings, motion practice, and trial.

Drug Charges FAQs for South Jersey Defendants

What charges could I face if drugs are found in my car during a traffic stop?
You could be charged with both drug possession and a Title 39 traffic offense like possession of CDS in a motor vehicle. If police searched your car without a warrant or probable cause, we may be able to suppress the evidence.

Is it still a crime to have marijuana in New Jersey without a license?
Yes. While recreational marijuana is legal for adults over 21, unlicensed sale, distribution, or possession of large quantities remains illegal. Charges are still filed against minors and unauthorized sellers.

Can I be arrested for having someone else’s prescription pills on me?
Yes. Having prescription drugs like Adderall, Xanax, or Oxycodone without a valid prescription can lead to a felony possession charge—even if it’s a small amount or someone else’s medication.

What are the penalties if I’m charged with intent to distribute drugs in Camden County?
Penalties depend on the type and quantity of drugs involved. Even without large amounts, packaging materials or text messages may be used to charge you with felony distribution. These cases carry 3–10 years in prison and significant fines.

Will I qualify for a first-offender program if I’ve never been arrested before?
Most likely. First-time offenders charged with drug possession may be eligible for Conditional Discharge or Pretrial Intervention (PTI), which can help avoid a conviction and expunge your record later.

Contact a Cherry Hill Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Today

Drug charges don’t have to define your future. At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we provide experienced criminal defense for clients accused of drug crimes across Cherry Hill and South Jersey. From minor possession to felony distribution, we challenge unlawful searches, suppress weak evidence, and fight for alternatives to conviction.

To schedule a confidential consultation, call (856) 209-3111 or email [email protected]. We act quickly to protect your rights and defend your freedom.