Oxycodone Possession and Distribution Lawyers in Hackettstown NJ
New Jersey law enforcement and prosecutors have responded to the opioid epidemic by handing the illegal possession and distribution of drugs like Oxycodone very seriously.
Oxycontin is a prescription drug that is classified as an opioid, a drug used to treat pain. Also known as “Ox”, “Oxy”, “Oxycotton”, “40”, “80”, and even “hillbilly heroin,” Oxycontin is the same type of drug as heroin. The rise of prescription Oxycontin abuse and heroin addiction have become known as the opioid epidemic, a troubling crisis that has plagued communities around the United States in the last several decades. Experts have identified three “waves” of the opioid epidemic that began in the early 1990s. The most recent wave started in 2013. This crisis has devastated countless families with many individuals developing an addiction to prescription opioids like Oxycontin and later moving to more deadly drugs like heroin.
Due to the highly addictive nature of opioids, what may begin as a dependency on a painkiller that was prescribed to a patient, can quickly turn into an Oxycontin or heroin addiction, as the individual tries to chase the experience of their first high, perpetually increasing their dosage. This can often lead to an overdose and even death. Furthermore, as a result of the common presence of opioids in household medicine cabinets, teenagers and young adults who may not have otherwise had access to illicit narcotics or street drugs can easily get access to prescription opioids like Oxycontin and may downplay the dangers of these drugs, due to their regular use by physicians in pain management. Unfortunately, the law does not see Oxycodone as a minor item to have illegally, much less distributing it for monetary gain or even passing it along to someone else.
In New Jersey, a defendant can face years in prison for this drug, depending on the amount and the extent of the charges. This, coupled with fines, a criminal record, losing a driver’s license, even job loss, can deter the future that you planned for yourself. For this reason, you need a solid defense.
If you are facing charges for an oxycontin offense, contact us today at 973-755-1695 to go over the specifics of your case. Our criminal defense attorneys provide a free initial consultation for anyone arrested and charged with possessing, selling, or intent to distribute Oxycodone and other prescription drugs in Greenwich, Wantage, Phillipsburg, Hackettstown, Mansfield Township, Belvidere, and throughout Warren and Sussex Counties.
Charged with Possession of Oxycontin in NJ. What Punishments Am I Facing?
The penalties for possession of Oxycontin vary depending on the circumstances and, primarily, the number of pills in your possession. If you have a prescription for Oxycontin but you transport it in a different container, you can be charged with a disorderly persons offense, carrying up to 6 months in jail, and fines of up to $1,000.
If you do not have a prescription for Oxycontin or you are in possession of pills that were not prescribed to you, you can be charged with an indictable offense or a disorderly persons offense. It is a disorderly persons offense to possess 4 or fewer Oxycontin pills without a valid prescription, meaning the penalties can go as high as $1,000 fine and 6 months of jail time.
Possession of between 5 to 99 Oxycontin pills is a fourth degree crime. This offense carries a potential sentence of up to 18 months in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
What Are the NJ Penalties for Distribution of Oxycodone or Possessing with Intent to Distribute?
Distributing or intent to distribute more than 5 but less than 100 pills is a third degree crime, which increases the consequences for those convicted. A third degree criminal conviction for Oxycontin could mean anywhere from 3 to 5 years in state prison and a maximum fine of $200,000. In the most extreme cases involving higher quantities of opioids, possessing 100 pills or more of Oxycontin with intent to distribute is a second degree indictable offense that is punishable by up to 5 to 10 years in prison. The judge may also order you to pay up to $300,000 in fines.
DUI Charges with Oxycodone in New Jersey
In New Jersey, DUI charges not only apply to those who are driving while under the influence of alcohol but also those accused of driving under the influence of drugs that impair the driver, like Oxycontin and other opioid drugs. Even if you have a prescription, you may still be charged with drug DUI, if a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) determines that you are impaired. If you are charged with a DUI for driving under the influence of Oxycontin, your case will be heard before a municipal court judge in the town or city where you were arrested. The penalties could include 7 to 12 months with a suspended driver’s license, $300 to $500 in fines, between 12 hours and 2 days of IDRC classes, and up to 1 month in the county jail.
Contact Oxycontin Attorneys for Your Defense in Sussex and Warren Counties
If you have been charged with an Oxycontin offense in Vernon, Franklin, Newton, Sparta, Andover, Stillwater, Hopatcong, or elsewhere in Sussex and Warren County, do not try to face these charges alone. You need a seasoned and knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer at your side. Our lawyers at The Tormey Law Firm have obtained dismissals, reduced penalties, PTI and probation outcomes in many Oxycontin cases for our clients and would be happy to review your case. Get help by contacting 973-755-1695 and start your case off on the right foot with a free consultation.
