Prescription Drug Distribution

Skilled Lawyers For Those Charged With Distributing Prescription Drugs in New Jersey

It is illegal to distribute a prescription legend drug in New Jersey unless you are a licensed physician, veterinarian, dentist or other practitioner authorized by law to prescribe medication. Selling or possessing prescription drugs in violation of this law results in severe consequences that include the possibility of a stiff prison sentence. This is why it is so important for an individual charged with prescription drug distribution in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Union County, Mercer County or another jurisdiction in the state to retain a highly qualified lawyer.

Here at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, our team of criminal attorneys have over a century of combined experience. Most of the lawyers are also former prosecutors, including one who served as a Drug Task Force director and another as supervisor of Drug Court. An attorney with the skills to dismantle the distribution case against you is on our staff. Contact our office at 877-450-8301 for a free consultation.

Charged With Selling, Distributing or Possession With Intent to Distribute Prescription Drugs

There are many controlled dangerous substances (“CDS”) that fall into the category of a prescription legend drug. The most frequently encountered drugs of this nature are Xanax, Suboxone, Percocet, Valium, Oxycodone, Hydrocodone and Adderall. It is unlawful to distribute prescription drugs such as these unless you are a doctor. Distribution of medications without a license to do so results in a crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.5 of the second degree, third degree or fourth degree depending on the quantity involved.  The headings below outline the grading and penalties for distribution of prescription drugs under this law:

  • Second Degree Crime. It is a second degree crime to distribute 100 or more dosage units for a prescription legend drug. The penalties for second degree prescription drug distribution include a fine of up to $300,000 and 5-10 years in prison.
  • Third Degree Crime. Selling or possession with intent to distribute at least 5 but less than 100 dosage units of Vicodin, Oxycontin, Roxycontin, Alprazolam, Demerol, Klonopin or another pharmaceutical is a third degree crime. A conviction for third degree prescription drug distribution carries a fine of up to $200,000 and up to 5 years in prison.
  • Fourth Degree Crime. Distributing 4 or fewer dosage units is a fourth degree crime that subjects a defendant to a fine of up to $10,000 and up to 18 months in prison. Fourth degree prescription drug distribution is reduced to a disorderly persons offense if the drugs are provided without any compensation or pecuniary gain.

Charges of prescription drug distribution should be taken seriously since, as you can see, the penalties can be stiff. It does not matter if you did not actually use any drugs yourself, or were legally prescribed the drug — you cannot sell or dispense prescription medication to another person.

New Jersey Prescription Drug Distribution Lawyers

The lawyers at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall include former county prosecutors, public defenders and skilled litigators that have defended countless prescription drug charges over the last several decades. We know how to effectively defend these charges to obtain the best result possible, including securing a dismissal, downgrading the offense or reaching another favorable resolution.

To get the best legal help possible, you need to talk to an experienced trial lawyer as soon as possible. We believe the lawyers at our firm have the level of expertise that you are looking for with over 100 years practicing in the Superior Court. To schedule an appointment with an attorney on our team, call our law office 877-450-8301 for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout New Jersey including Passaic County, Somerset County, Bergen County, Hudson County and Camden County.

Related Information

Prescription Drug Crimes and Charges in New Jersey
Prescription Drug Glossary
List of Controlled and Dangerous Substances