Princeton University Drug Offense Lawyer

Charged With CDS Possession at Princeton University

Possession of drugs, also referred to as controlled dangerous substances (“CDS”), is an issue that confronts Princeton University just like any institution of higher learning. The University even has arrests for selling, distributing and possession with intent to distribute drugs. If you were charged with possession or distribution of cds, including marijuana, cocaine, MDMA (i.e. Ecstasy), LSD or prescription legend drugs, you need to consult a skilled lawyer immediately. Here at The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, we can offer quality representation from attorneys that have been defending charges in Princeton Municipal Court and the Mercer County Superior Court for literally decades. We will guide you through this complicated issue and aggressively work to save you from a conviction. An attorney, including one of our former prosecutors, will gladly provide a free consultation by contacting the Princeton Office at 609–683–8102.

Possession of Marijuana

Possession of 50 grams or less of marijuana under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 is the most common variety of drug charge at Princeton University. While this is a disorderly persons offense that is essentially a misdemeanor, the penalties include a fine of up to $1,000, up to 6 months in jail and a 6-24 month driver’s license suspension. Possession of more than 50 grams is a fourth degree crime, a felony, which carries up to 18 months in jail and a maximum fine of $25,000. A conviction for either of these grades of marijuana possession also result in a criminal record that can impact your ability to secure a job, professional license or gain admission into graduate school.

Possession of Cocaine, MDMA, LSD & Prescription Drugs

Personal possession of cocaine, MDMA and LSD are, for the most part, a crime of the third degree. The penalties for possession include a maximum fine of $35,000, up to 5 years in prison and the same mandatory driver’s license suspension discussed under the prior heading. Treatment of possession of prescription legend drugs is slightly difference. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.5, possession of 4 or few dosage units is a disorderly persons offense and a fourth degree crime if 5 or more units are possessed. A disorderly persons offense for possession of a prescription legend drug carries the same penalties as possession of 50 grams or less of marijuana. A fourth degree crime for possession of a prescription legend drug triggers a prison term of up to 18 months and a potential fine of $10,000.

Distribution of Drugs

Manufacturing, distributing or possessing drugs with the intention of distribution is illegal under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5. The severity of this violation hinges on the type and quantity of cds involved in the sale. The following bullets discussing the grading and penalties associated with distribution of some of the more common drugs.

• Marijuana. Distribution of marijuana results in a first degree crime where more than 25 pounds are involved, a second degree crime when the quantity is at least 5 pounds but less than 25 pounds, a third degree crime if at least one ounce but less than 5 pounds are involved and fourth degree crime for less than one ounce.
• Cocaine, Heroin & MDMA. Selling or distributing less than one-half ounce is a third degree crime, at least one-half ounce but less than 5 ounces is a second degree crime and 5 ounces or more is a first degree crime.
• LSD. Distribution of less than 100 milligrams of LSD is a second degree crime and it is a first degree crime to sell or distribute 100 milligrams or more.

Princeton University CDS Defense Attorney

Princeton University has many of the same issues of other colleges and CDS on campus is definitely one of them. For individuals charged with violating the law because of possession or distribution of drugs, a skilled attorney is an absolute necessity. Failure to avoid a plea or finding of guilt results in serious penalties, not to mention disciplinary sanctions. The lawyers at The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall can provide the relief you need from such an outcome. To speak to a lawyer at the firm immediately, call 609–683–8102.