Synthetic Marijuana

Synthetic Marijuana Lawyers in Burlington County NJ

While new legislation may permit the manufacture and sale of marijuana in New Jersey, as of now, it is still illegal to either possess, distribute or manufacture marijuana or synthetic marijuana / synthetic cannabinoids. Synthetic marijuana has many street names, including K2, black mamba and spice. As a synthetic drug, the chemical breakdown can vary from batch to batch. Therefore, the effects of one batch could drastically differ from that of another. These drugs are typically labeled and identified based on images that correlate with the specific type of drug. Whether you are charged with possession of synthetic cannabinoids or distribution of synthetic cannabinoids, it is imperative that you contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer. If you were charged with possession under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.3a or distribution under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5.3a, our firm will gladly consult with you regarding the possible options and defenses available in your case. Our office can be reached at (609) 850-8284.

Mount Holly NJ Synthetic Cannabinoid Possession

As mentioned above, possession of synthetic cannabinoid is found under a different statute then distribution of synthetic cannabinoid. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.3, it is a criminal offense to purposely or knowingly possess or obtain a synthetic cannabinoid. The penalties for possession of a synthetic cannabinoid directly correlates to the amount of the drug involved. If you are caught in possession of more than 1/2 ounce of synthetic marijuana, then you are facing a third degree indictable felony offense. However, if you are in possession of anything less than 1/2 ounce of synthetic marijuana, then you are going to be charged with a fourth degree indictable felony offense.  A third degree crime carries between three (3) and five (5) years in a NJ State Prison while a fourth degree crime carries up to eighteen (18) months of incarceration. 

Distribution of Synthetic Marijuana Bordentown NJ

Distribution of synthetic marijuana is more serious offense than mere possession. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5.3a, it is a crime for any person to “knowingly or purposely to manufacture, distribute or dispense, or to possess or have under his control with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense substances containing: 4-methylmethcathinone (mephedrone, 4-MMC); 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV); 3,4-methylenedioxymethcathinone (methylone, MDMC), 4-methoxymethcathinone (methedrone, bk-PMMA, PMMC); 3-fluoromethcathinone (3-FMC); or 4-fluoromethcathinone (flephedrone, 4-FMC).”

Depending on the volume of the controlled dangerous substance involved, these penalties will either be a third degree or second degree offense. If the amount of synthetic cannabinoid / synthetic marijuana is less than one (1) ounce, then you are facing a third degree criminal offense. As a third degree offense, this distribution charge carries up to five (5) years in a NJ State Prison. Alternatively, if the amount of synthetic cannabinoid / synthetic marijuana is more than one (1) ounce, then you are facing a second degree criminal offense. As a second degree offense, this distribution charge carries up to ten (10) years in a NJ State Prison and a fine up to $150,000. 

Mount Laurel NJ Marijuana Attorneys

Whether you were charged with possession or distribution of synthetic marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, contact an experienced Burlington County Criminal Lawyer. Firm partner and former New Jersey Deputy Attorney General, William C. Fay, IV, will consult with you regarding you pending case or pending Pretrial Detention Hearing. For an immediate and complimentary consultation, please call (609) 850-8284.