Drug Manufacturing Crimes in NJ

Trust the Firm with Over Two Decades of Experience

The Bureau of Justice Statistics found that over a million drug crimes took place in the United States in just one year. This high statistic only means that law enforcement officials are imposing increasingly harsh penalties for those convicted of crimes involving illegal substances, including manufacturing.

For over 25 years, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. has been fighting for the rights of accused individuals throughout New Jersey. Our Union County drug crimes attorney knows how important it is to act quickly and can begin preparing your defense the moment you contact our firm. Our firm's founder and lead attorney has unique experience as a prosecutor, which could be the advantage your case needs.

How are drug manufacturing crimes penalized?

According to New Jersey's law, any person who is involved in the manufacturing of illegal substances can be convicted, even if they participated unknowingly. Both well-known drugs and the substances used to make them are considered illegal.

• The following penalties may apply for anyone convicted:
• First degree: Fines up to $500,000, state prison exposure between 10 and 20 years subject to a mandatory period of parole ineligibility under Brimmage
• Second degree: Fines up to $150,000, state prison exposure between 5 and 10 years subject to a period of parole ineligibility under Brimmage
• Third degree: Fines up to $75,000, state prison exposure between 3 and 5 years
• Fourth degree: Fines up to $25,000, state prison exposure of 18 months

Punishments may increase if the offense occurred within 1,000 feet of school property, 500 feet of public housing or park. Prior drug distribution convictions on an individual's criminal history (CCH) may trigger mandatory and/ or discretionary extended terms under the criminal code. An extended term basically doubles the sentencing exposure.

For example, a person with a prior drug distribution conviction who is thereafter convicted of a third-degree drug distribution offense faces a range of incarceration between 5 and 10 years in state prison under an extended term instead of a 3- to 5-year range.

Can your Union County drug crime attorney help me?

Many firms make empty promises without any verifiable information to back those promises up. We begin with a free consultation, which allows us to give you the most informed counsel possible. Our team would be honored to represent you and is always willing to address any concerns you may have.

If you are looking for an attorney with a track record of success, look no further. Contact Clifford E. Lazzaro today!