Passaic County NJ Drug Charges in a School Zone Defense Attorney

Paterson NJ Defense Lawyer for Drug (CDS) Distribution and Possession With Intent to Distribute in a School Zone

Skilled criminal defense lawyer Alissa D. Hascup represents clients throughout New Jersey who have been charged with a number of criminal offenses, including theft by deception, unlawful possession of a weapon, and witness tampering in Paterson, Wayne, Ringwood, and Little Falls.

She has successfully handled thousands of cases in New Jersey, in Superior Court (indictable/felony level offenses) and Municipal Court (disorderly persons/misdemeanor level offenses). Ms. Hascup is a former Morris County Assistant Prosecutor and Special Deputy Attorney General, who handled a variety of serious drug-related cases during the course of her distinguished career. She knows what it takes for the State to prove a drug case beyond a reasonable doubt – and will use that knowledge to defend, and potentially beat, the charges filed against you.

Being charged with a drug crime, such distribution/possession with intent to distribute in a school zone, can have serious consequences, including hefty fines and a term of incarceration. Having an aggressive, experienced defense lawyer to guide you through the legal process is invaluable. Ms. Hascup is prepared to attack the State’s case and put you in a position to achieve the best possible result. Contact her office anytime for an initial consultation, which is always provided free of charge.

Controlled Dangerous Substances Near or On School Property in New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7

N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7 sets forth:

Any person who violates subsection a. of N.J.S.2C:35-5 by distributing, dispensing or possessing with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance or controlled substance analog while on any school property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board, or within 1,000 feet of such school property or a school bus, or while on any school bus, is guilty of a crime of the Third Degree (punishable by a term of incarceration between 3 and 5 years in New Jersey State Prison) and shall, except as provided in N.J.S.2C:35-12 (Waiver of Mandatory Minimum and Extended Terms), be sentenced by the court to a term of imprisonment.

Where the violation involves less than one ounce of marijuana, the term of imprisonment shall include the imposition of a minimum term which shall be fixed at, or between, one-third and one-half of the sentence imposed, or one year, whichever is greater, during which the defendant shall be ineligible for parole. In all other cases, the term of imprisonment shall include the imposition of a minimum term which shall be fixed at, or between, one-third and one-half of the sentence imposed, or three years, whichever is greater, during which the defendant shall be ineligible for parole. A fine of up to $150,000.00 may also be imposed upon any conviction for a violation of this section.

NOTE: Distribution/Possession With Intent to Distribute in a School Zone is a violation subject to sentencing under the “Brimage Guidelines,” which eliminates the defense attorney’s opportunity to argue for a downward departure at the time of sentencing.

Contact a Paterson NJ School Zone Drug Charges Attorney Today

If you are facing charges for Distribution/Possession With Intent to Distribute in a School Zone, there are serious consequences associated with a conviction, including hefty fines and exposure to jail time. Don’t delay in hiring legal representation to protect your freedom and your rights.

Alissa D. Hascup is anytime to discuss your case. Call us or fill out her convenient contact form now to request your free consultation.