What are Opioids?
The abuse and possession of opioids, a class of drugs that act as pain relievers, has become an epidemic in New Jersey, with our state having one of the highest rates of emergency room visits related to opioids in the country. Although the opioid class includes the illegal drug heroin, the majority of opioids are prescription drugs.
Prescription Opioids
Prescription drugs that fall under the category of opioids include, but are not limited to:
- Morphine
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
- Methadone
- Oxycodone drugs including:
- Oxycontin
- Percocet
- Roxicodone
- Hydrocodone drugs including Vicodin
- Pethidine
- Dilaudid
Penalties for Charges Related to Possession of Opioids
Penalties for the illegal distribution or possession of opioids in New Jersey are severe.
Heroin is listed as a Schedule I drug by the DEA under the Controlled Dangerous Substances Act, having no legally acceptable use.
- Third Degree Heroin Possession
- Fines of up to $35,000
- Up to five years in prison
- Third Degree Heroin Possession with Intent to Distribute (½ ounce or less)
- Fines of up to $75,000
- Up to five years in prison
- Second Degree Heroin Possession with Intent to Distribute (Between ½ ounce and 5 ounces)
- Fines of up to $150,000
- Up to ten years in prison
- First Degree Heroin Possession with Intent to Distribute (Over 5 ounces)
- Fines of up to $500,000
- Up to twenty years in prison
Prescription opioids, like all prescription drugs, are listed as Schedule II drugs by the DEA. They have a legal medical use, but they have a high tolerance for abuse and addiction.
- Possession of 4 or fewer pills (or doses) without a prescription – a Fourth Degree Crime
- Up to 18 months in jail.
- Fines of up to $10,000.
- Obtaining a prescription by forgery or other fraud – a Third Degree Crime
- Up to 5 years in jail.
- Fines of up to $100,000.
- Possession of between 5 and 99 pills – a Third Degree Crime
- Up to 5 years in jail.
- Fines of up to $200,000.
- Possession of 100 or more pills with intent to distribute – a Second Degree Crime
- Up to 10 years in jail.
- Fines of up to $300,000
Contact Schneider Freiberger Today
If you are facing charges for the possession, manufacture, or distribution of opioids in New Jersey, you need an attorney who will make sure your rights are observed and work to minimize your penalties. Contact Schneider Freiberger today to discuss your opioids case.
