There are many different controlled substance charges that people can face. These charges fall under the realm of criminal charges and have major associated penalties.  If you have received a controlled substance charge, you need to call a New Jersey attorney, such as Leon Matchin, as soon as possible. By working with an attorney, your charges can be reduced. Here are three different charges related to controlled dangerous substances (CDS). 

Loitering for CDS

Loitering for CDS is a disorderly persons offense. New Jersey law defines loitering as “wandering, remaining or prowling in a public place with the purpose of unlawfully obtaining or distributed a controlled dangerous substance.” Loitering for CDS comes with hefty penalties. Because of this, you will be fined up to $1,000, stay in jail for up to 6 months, receive probation, and have a permanent criminal charge on your record.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Another charge also related to CDS is the possession of drug paraphernalia. New Jersey also says it is “unlawful to possess for use drug paraphernalia (with the intent to grow, harvest, prepare, store, or ingest a dangerous controlled substance).” As a result, penalties include up to 6 months in jail, a fine of anywhere between $500-$1,000, and suspension of your driver’s license for up to two years. Remember, you can be charged even if drugs are not present. Because of this, simply possessing something like a pipe or syringe with the intent to use with drugs can lead to a charge.

Under the Influence of CDS

Under the influence of CDS is also a criminal charge. New Jersey law states that it is “illegal for a person to use or be under the influence of controlled dangerous substance unless it is for the purpose of treatment of sickness or injury as prescribed by a physician.” In addition, there are many penalties associated with this charge. These can include fines up to $1,000, jail time of up to 6 months, probation, and license suspension for a minimum of six months. In addition, you will also have a permanent criminal charge on your record. 

Contact A New Jersey Attorney For Your Controlled Substance Charges

CDS charges come with several penalties and leave a mark on your permanent record. As a result, this can make it hard to get into college, apply for jobs, and join the military. A New Jersey attorney, such as Leon Matchin, is very experienced in defending those who have been charged with CDS-related crimes. Your lawyer can help get the charges reduced. You can also talk to your lawyer about expungement of past charges. Call Leon Matchin at 732-887-2479 or contact him via email at [email protected] for more information about controlled substance charges.