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New Jersey Marijuana Charges Attorney

Marijuana Charges Defense Lawyer in Cherry Hill, NJ Represents Clients Charged with Marijuana Possession and Distribution in Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Throughout NJ

New Jersey has taken part in recent trends across the states reducing or eliminating criminal punishment for possession of marijuana. It is now legal for an adult to possess 6 ounces or less of marijuana. Only if you are found in possession of more than 6 ounces will you face marijuana charges. New Jersey marijuana charges attorney Michele Finizio can help you avoid criminal liability entirely or, in some cases, negotiate a reduced penalty. Call (856) 242-7300 to schedule a free consultation about your marijuana possession charges.

What is the criminal offense of possessing over the legal limit of marijuana, exactly? In New Jersey, you can be charged with the possession of more than 6 ounces of marijuana. It is considered a fourth-degree crime, and if you are found guilty, you may be exposed to penalties that include up to 18 months of imprisonment and $25,000 in fines. Like other drug offenses, a marijuana possession conviction will go on your permanent criminal record, which could hurt your future employment prospects.

If you’ve been charged with marijuana possession over the legal limit in Cherry Hill, Camden, Gloucester Township, or anywhere else in NJ, it’s important to get in touch with a skilled Marijuana Charges Defense Lawyer in Cherry Hill, NJ for further guidance.

Facing A Criminal Charge And Have Questions? We Can Help. Contact The Law Offices of Michele Finizio Today At 856-888-9059 Or Fill Our Our Convenient Online Contact Form For A Free Consultation About Your Case.

New Jersey Marijuana Charges Attorney Highlights Common Defenses to a Simple Possession of Marijuana Charges

New Jersey Marijuana Charges Attorney

There are a number of defenses that you may be able to utilize in order to avoid criminal liability for a marijuana charge in New Jersey.

Police Did Not Have Probable Cause

Law enforcement officers need probable cause in order to justify a legal search of your person or vehicle. If an officer does not have probable cause, and they conduct a search of your person or vehicle and find marijuana, then they will not be allowed to introduce such evidence into the case. As evidence of marijuana is core to the prosecution’s argument, this can result in the dismissal of the criminal case brought against you.

You Did Not Have Actual or Constructive Possession

A conviction for possession will not stand if you can show that you were not actually in possession of the marijuana. For example, if law enforcement officials find marijuana in your car — next to your friend — but it belongs to your friend (and you were unaware of the presence of marijuana), you could reasonably argue that the drugs were not in your possession.

Put another way: you cannot be held liable for the mere presence of marijuana, unless the prosecution can show that you possessed it.

The Evidence Was Mishandled

Evidence in NJ drug crimes cases is frequently mishandled. If law enforcement mishandles the marijuana evidence before it is lab tested, for example, then this could seriously affect the test results. By calling into question the legitimacy of mishandled evidence in your marijuana possession case, you can undermine the prosecution’s arguments and strengthen your defense.

★★★★★

I can honestly say that I am 100% satisfied with the outcome of my case. Michael handled my case very well. I would definitely recommend her to anyone who needs help with any court issues.

Lelany J.

★★★★★

Very realistic and professional. Great with communication and prompt with follow ups. Flexible with availability, responds to both texts and phone calls. I was very happy with the service I received.

Jerilyn N.

★★★★★

Michele is an amazing attorney. She goes above and beyond to help. She answers her phone at all times of the day and is eager to get you the answers and give you the advice and representation you need. Don’t hesitate to use her services!!!!

J. L.

The Conditional Discharge Option for Gloucester Township Marijuana Charges

Previously in New Jersey, If you were found guilty of a low-level marijuana charge like simple possession (less than 50 grams) for the first time, you could have been granted a diversionary program like conditional discharge in order to avoid the harsh penalties associated with drug crimes. Conditional discharge is an alternative form of sentencing. Instead of facing imprisonment and the prospect of having a stain on a permanent record with a drug conviction, the court gives certain defendants the opportunity to go on probation, get counseling, and/or perform community service as an alternative. If defendants conduct themselves in accordance with the terms of their probation, then they not only avoid imprisonment but the criminal conviction can also be erased from their permanent record.

However, due to the recent changes in New Jersey law with the legalization of cannabis, a conditional discharge is no longer applicable to marijuana charges as low-level crimes like simple possession are now legal. Legislation is still pending on cases where individuals are facing a new low-level drug charge for a different substance or disorderly persons charges but have already received a conditional discharge for a marijuana-related offense in the not-so-distant past.

Contact an Experienced New Jersey Marijuana Charges Attorney for Further Guidance

Michele Finizio, a marijuana charges defense lawyer in Cherry Hill, NJ, has spent over a decade representing New Jersey criminal defendants in a range of litigation, including cases that involve the possession of illicit substances (such as marijuana). Attorney Finizio understands that being charged with a drug-related crime like simple possession of marijuana can be an emotionally trying experience, and as such, she works closely with clients throughout the litigation process to ensure that they are kept well-informed about the developments in their case.

Call (856) 242-7300 today to speak with Attorney Michele Finizio about your legal issues, or contact her online. The initial consultation is free, and all communications are confidential. We look forward to hearing from you.

Get A Free Consultation With An Experienced New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorney. All You Have To Do Is Call 856-888-9059 Or Fill Out Our Online Contact Form.

Reviews Matter

*Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.

"I am extremely grateful for the exceptional legal services provided by my lawyer (Michele Finizio) in handling my charges. Their expertise and dedication played a pivotal role in achieving positive outcomes for my case. Very Grateful.”
- Enrique R.

“Had a case and hired the team. Recieved a better outcome than anticipated. The process was smooth and relaxed. Definitely recommend! Thank you everyone!”
- Yashar E.

"I was facing some serious charges and Michele and Kevin made me feel comfortable and at ease throughout the whole process. Very professional, understanding, courteous, and diligent. Michele’s firm was highly recommended to me by a friend who has used her a few times. 10/10 highly recommend. Thank you so much Michele and Kevin!!!!"
- Samantha O.

“I highly recommend this law firm. They were easy to contact and very knowledgeable. I will definitely work with them again.”
- Stevey M.
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