Prescription Drug Offenses

Understanding Prescription Drug Offenses in NJ

Due to their strong effects and high potential for addiction, prescription drugs are heavily regulated by both federal and state laws. These pharmaceuticals are considered Controlled Dangerous Substances in New Jersey, and there are severe penalties for obtaining, possessing, or distributing them without a valid prescription from a doctor. Commonly misused prescription drugs include:

• Oxycodone drugs including:
  • Roxicodone or Roxycodone
  • Oxycontin
  • Percocet
• Other Opioids including:
  • Morphine
  • Methadone
  • Fentanyl
  • Dilaudid
  • Pethidine
  • Vicodin
  • Codeine
• Xanax
• Adderall
• Ambien
• Nembutal
• Mebaral
• Valium
• Ritalin
• Klonopin

Penalties for prescription drug charges vary depending on the amount you are found in possession of and the means by which you obtained them. The act of forging a prescription or obtaining one by fraud or theft is a crime in itself, with penalties comparable to possession of the prescription drugs. Penalties also vary depending on the type of drug in question, but these are some general guidelines:

• Illegal Use of a prescription drug – a Disorderly Persons Offense or Misdemeanor. This includes being found under the influence of the drug or even possessing the drug in a different container than it was originally delivered in.
  • Up to 6 months in jail.
  • Fines of up to $1,000.
• Possession of 4 or fewer doses (such as pills) without a valid prescription – a Fourth Degree Crime
  • Up to 18 months in jail.
  • Fines of up to $10,000.
• Prescription Fraud, Forgery, or Theft – a Third Degree Crime
  • Up to 5 years in jail.
  • Fines of up to $50,000.
• Possession of between 5 and 99 doses – a Third Degree Crime
  • Up to 5 years in jail.
  • Fines of up to $200,000.
• Possession of 100 or more doses with intent to distribute – a Second Degree Crime
  • Up to 10 years in jail.
  • Fines of up to $300,000

Contact Us Today

If you are facing charges related to the illegal use, possession or distribution of prescription drugs, the lawyers at Schneider Freiberger can help. We have experience in defending clients in all manner of prescription drug offenses, and can get you the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to discuss your options.