Codeine is an opiate that is a common prescription drug used to treat pain, and is often used in cough medicine and as an anti-diarrheal. It is typically meant for mild to moderate pain. While there are stronger painkillers, codeine has the potential to be abused and is classified as a schedule II drug under federal law when used in painkillers that have more than 90 mg of codeine per unit. In cough syrups it is classed as schedule III, IV, or V depending on the formulation.
Codeine can come in the following forms:
- Solutions
- Tablets
- Syrup
When used for its prescribed purpose, there is little chance of forming dependence. Those using the drug recreationally are at a risk for addiction.
What are the Penalties for Codeine Possession or Distribution?
As mentioned above, the DEA schedule classification for codeine varies depending on the form it is in. For the sake of this breakdown, we will be focusing on the schedule II classification which is for the painkiller medicine. Here are the penalties you may face if you are found in possession of an illegal quantity of codeine or you are found to be selling the drug illegally.
- Fourth Degree Codeine Possession (4 or fewer doses without a prescription)
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Up to 18 months in NJ State Prison
- Third Degree Codeine Possession (Between 5 and 99 doses)
- Up to $200,000 in fines
- Up to 5 years in NJ State Prison
- Second Degree Codeine Possession (100 doses or more)
- Up to $300,000 in fines
- Up to 10 years in NJ State Prison
- Obtaining a Codeine Prescription Through Fraud, Theft, or Forgery
- Up to $100,000 in fines
- Up to 5 years in NJ State Prison
- Disorderly Persons Offense: Codeine Possession
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Up to 6 months in the county jail
- Disorderly Persons Offense: Failure to Turn Over Codeine to a Police Officer
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Up to 6 months in the county jail
- Suspension of driver’s license for at least 6 months
- Learn about the NJ license restoration process.
Contact Us Today to Discuss Codeine Charges
Illegal codeine possession and distribution has severe repercussions in the state of NJ. At Schneider Freiberger, we have experience in defending clients with all levels of codeine charges as well as other prescription drug charges. Contact us today to discuss your options for getting the best result for your case.
