Bastarrika, Soto, Gonzalez & Somohano, L.L.P. | Attorneys at Law

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Bastarrika, Soto, Gonzalez & Somohano, L.L.P. | Attorneys at Law
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Finding Creative Solutions To Your Legal Challenges

Experienced Defense Against Drug Charges

New York City and New Jersey law enforcement take drug crimes very seriously. The consequences of a drug crime conviction can have a profound effect on your job, your liberty and your livelihood. It is essential that you retain an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and aggressively pursue an outcome that serves your best interests.

At Bastarrika, Soto, Gonzalez & Somohano, L.L.P., our attorneys are not only highly experienced in drug crime defense, but we also have experience serving as public defenders and prosecutors on both the municipal and state levels. We understand what you are facing and what detail must be explored in order to form a strong case that supports the most favorable outcome. We also have experienced immigration law attorneys on staff who will assist in advising on the potential immigration consequences of any guilty plea or sentence.

Understanding Different Drug Charges In New Jersey

Although New Jersey recently legalized marijuana use for adults over the age of 21, other substances remain illegal and can result in harsh penalties if caught.

We work with individuals throughout the five boroughs of New York City and New Jersey who have been charged with drug crimes involving the following drugs:

  • Cocaine
  • Pharmaceutical drugs
  • Xanax and Percocet
  • OxyContin and Oxycodone
  • Vicodin, Ritalin and more
  • MDMA

Drug charges can include:

  • Possession of a controlled substance
  • Trafficking
  • Conspiracy
  • Possession of paraphernalia

Regardless of the complexity of your case, we are focused on minimizing the negative impacts it has on your life and your future. Our criminal defense lawyers are committed to developing strong, trusting relationships with our clients so they feel comfortable sharing their stories with us and putting their future in our hands. Should you require treatment support, we are available to guide you in the direction of your choosing.

Cocaine Possession Laws In New Jersey

N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 states that possession of any amount of cocaine is a violation of the law – and is classified as a third-degree felony. It’s important to note that this is true even if the person has not used cocaine or transferred it to another individual. Mere possession is still a felony that could result in serious charges. Those who have been accused must understand exactly what legal defense options are available.

Conviction on a third-degree felony cocaine possession charge can lead to a prison term that lasts between three and five years. Additionally, a conviction may lead to a driver’s license suspension for six months and a monetary fine of up to $35,000.

Some alleged offenders are tempted to plead out to get the process over with as fast as possible, but this may not be the best tactic. After all, in addition to the ramifications listed above, a conviction on these serious criminal charges could lead to a permanent criminal record. This can make it harder to get loans or find a place to live, limit potential educational opportunities and have a major impact on a person’s career. For instance, an executive at a major corporation who loses their job due to a violation of cocaine possession laws could lose far more in annual lost wages than the maximum $35,000 fine.

For first-time offenders facing charges, it’s important to note that New Jersey has a drug court program. Some offenders are allowed to complete treatment programs aimed at addressing addiction and use disorders, which may have been the root cause of the possession charge. In general, though, these offenses must be nonviolent in nature to qualify for the diversion program.

This is just one of the reasons why it’s critical to work with an experienced cocaine possession lawyer. At Bastarrika, Soto, Gonzalez & Somohano, L.L.P., our experienced team can help you explore all of your options and work to protect your future.

Contact Bastarrika, Soto, Gonzalez & Somohano, L.L.P., To Get Started On Your Defense

To learn more about how our Bergen County and Passaic County drug charge defense attorneys can help, call 973-370-0997 or email us. We offer free consultations on all criminal cases.