Convictions For Drug Offenses in New Jersey Will Leave You Walking, Even If No Car In Involved.

Any drug offenses in New Jersey can cause you to lose your driving privileges

Some of the most common charges seen in the Municipal Courts in New Jersey are those under Chapter 35 and 36 of the New Jersey Code, which deals with possession and use of controlled dangerous substances, such as small quantities of marijuana, and the possession of drug paraphernalia.  In the Municipal Courts, these types of charges are considered disorderly persons’ offenses. Convictions carry with them the potential for incarceration for up to 6 months, a fine of up to $1,000. or both. It is also common to be placed on probation. However, many people may not realize that if you are convicted of any drug charge referenced in Chapters 35 or 36 of the New Jersey Code, you may also face a loss of your New Jersey driving privileges, whether or not the offense took place in a motor vehicle.  

N.J.S.A. 2C:35-16 states that a conviction under Chapter 35 or Chapter 36 will result in the suspension of your New Jersey driving privileges for six months to up to two years.  If the judge imposes such a suspension, it is absolute. New Jersey does not offer conditional licenses that would allow you to get to and from work. This consequence can be particularly devastating because without the ability to drive, most people can’t get to work and may end up losing their jobs.  Many find themselves unable to support minor children or even take their children to school. For parties with children governed by custody and parenting time arrangements, your parenting time could be impacted for so long as your license remains suspended.

It is possible to avoid a suspension only if the judge is satisfied that compelling circumstances exist that would warrant an exception to the suspension requirement.  Mere inconvenience may not suffice. The judge needs to be satisfied that losing your driver’s license represents an extreme hardship.

Our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyers can Assist You

We have appeared before dozens of courts across Northern New Jersey and have saved the driving privileges of countless people by convincing judges that such compelling circumstances exist.  When you are facing drug charges, it is imperative to have an experienced attorney to preserve your license, and in my instances, your job. If you are facing drug charges, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your options and see how we can help you.