Morristown OxyContin Defense Lawyer

Attorneys for Oxycodone Charges in Morris County, New Jersey

NJ OxyContin Lawyer 2C:35-10.5

OxyContin, also known as “Oxy,” is an opioid pain medication that is highly addictive and often described in conversations about the opioid epidemic in the United States. Many times, a person will be legally prescribed OxyContin following surgery, only to find themselves addicted to the drug after the prescription has been exhausted. Oxycontin is an incredibly popular “recreational drug” in New Jersey. It can even be a gateway drug, leading to abuse of other drugs. Often, people addicted to Oxycodone turn to heroin as a cheaper, more readily available high when the market for prescription painkillers drys up in an area. As a result, New Jersey prosecutors seek to impose the maximum punishments in OxyContin cases.

The prescription drugs defense attorneys at the Tormey Law Firm have successfully handled thousands of cases in New Jersey, in Superior and Municipal Courts. Travis J. Tormey, the firm’s founding partner, has extensive experience representing clients charged with drug offenses, including Possession of OxyContin, Possession of Synthetic Marijuana, Prescription Fraud, and Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle. Additionally, one of the firm’s partners, Mr. Christopher Perry was recognized as a Rising Star by SuperLawyers in the area of criminal defense in 2018. If you or someone you love has been charged with possession, distribution, or intent to distribute Oxycontin in Mount Olive, Montville, Parsippany, Morristown, East Hanover, Morris County, or elsewhere in New Jersey, you need to understand your rights and the defenses available to you. The prescription drug charges lawyers at The Tormey Law Firm have obtained positive results for countless clients in courts across the state. We are available at (908) 336-5008 to discuss your case or you can use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.

OxyContin Charges in New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.5

OxyContin, known as “Oxy,” “OC,” or “Oxycotton,” is an opioid analgesic supplied in 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, and 80 mg tablets for oral administration. The active ingredient of OxyContin is oxycodone hydrochloride, which is a pain reliever derived from opium and similar to morphine. OxyContin is simply a time-release version of oxycodone, while Roxycontin is not time-released, meaning that it acts almost immediately. Most basic drug urine tests that test for “opiates” detect morphine, which is the root of heroin, codeine, and OxyContin.

In New Jersey, it is illegal to carry prescription drugs and certain medications unless you are in possession of a valid prescription. As set forth by N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.5, possession and/or distribution of OxyContin is prohibited unless carried out by a licensed physician, dentist, veterinarian, or pharmacist. The Controlled Substance Act classifies OxyContin as a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (CDS). Schedule II drugs have an accepted medical use but a high potential for abuse that can lead to physical and psychological dependence. The penalties for possession and distribution of OxyContin vary, depending on the number of pills that are seized.

Second Degree OxyContin Possession, Distribution, Intent to Distribute

If caught with 100 or more OxyContin pills, a person can be charged with second degree intent to distribute OxyContin. If convicted of this charge, you could be looking at five (5) to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison, with a presumption of incarceration. Additionally, a conviction can result in a $300,000 fine.

Third Degree OxyContin Possession, Distribution, Intent to Distribute

In New Jersey, possession of between five (5) and 99 OxyContin pills without a valid prescription is classified as a third degree crime. If convicted of third degree possession of OxyContin, you could be looking at a sentence of between three (3) and five (5) years in NJ State Prison and a fine of up to $200,000.

Fourth Degree OxyContin Possession, Distribution, Intent to Distribute

If you possess four (4) or fewer OxyContin pills, it can be classified as a fourth degree felony. This is punishable by up to 18 months in state prison.

Disorderly Persons Offense: OxyContin Possession

In accordance with N.J.S.A. 2C:35-24, possession of four (4) or fewer OxyContin pills may also be classified as a disorderly persons offense. This means that if you are caught with a pill outside the bottle or container in which it was dispensed, you could be charged with disorderly persons possession of OxyContin. Even being under the influence of OxyContin in public without a valid prescription can be a disorderly persons offense. If convicted, you may be sentenced to six (6) months in the county jail and hit with a fine of up to $1,000.

Disorderly Persons Offense: Failure to Turn Over OxyContin to a Police Officer

Another related charge is failure to turn over OxyContin to a law enforcement officer. As set forth by N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10(c), failing to turn over drugs to police is a disorderly persons offense. Often, this will be a downgraded charge that prosecutors use in an OxyContin case. If convicted, you could still face up to six (6) months in the county jail, a $1,000 fine, and suspension of your driver’s license for at least six (6) months.

Contact a Mount Olive Prescription Painkillers Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you are facing charges for Possessing, Possessing With the Intent to Distribute, or Distribution of OxyContin in Morris County or New Jersey, there can be serious consequences. If convicted, you could face serious jail time, heavy fines, and lengthy suspension of your driving privileges. We have represented countless clients charged with OxyContin possession and intent to distribute OxyContin, so we have the advanced defense strategies needed to secure a win in your drug case. Do not delay in hiring legal representation. Protect your freedom and your rights. The Morris County prescription drug lawyers at Tormey Law Firm are available anytime to discuss your case. Contact us now at (908) 336-5008 for a free consultation.