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Heroin Crimes in Hudson County, NJ
Heroin Crimes in Hudson County, NJ
A heroin epidemic has plagued Hudson County, NJ for the last decades. This has local law enforcement on a escalated alert for possessors and distributors of this controlled dangerous substance (CDS). Scan the Jersey Journal and you’ll be able to view numerous reports and press releases about heroin arrests. The problem is acute in Jersey City. This city ranks third for heroin overdoses in the State of New Jersey.
A charge in Hudson County for possession of heroin is a serious situation for various reasons. Getting convicted not only ends up in a felony record but also tens of thousands in possible fines and years in prison. It is a must that you enlist a seasoned criminal defense attorney if you were charged with heroin possession in Jersey City, West New York, Hoboken, Secaucus or another local municipality. Representation by a well-informed attorney will give you a fighting chance to avoid conviction and other negative results that come from this outcome.
If you are looking for a lawyer that listens, is aggressive where needed, and holds his word above all else, Todd is the best pick. I had hired multiple attorneys prior to hiring the Spodek Group for a white collar case. The first thing that stood out to me was the cost, as anyone going through the process and dealing with the system, money was tight at that time - especially after hiring and firing multiple lawyers. The cost was not as high as others which was definitely a plus. Todd's intake process was also unlike other attorneys. He took the time to actually listen. He cared. He was trying to put himself in my shoes while I was explaining the situation to him and he really took the time to understand the whole situation. Other lawyers will give you 15 mins and send you a retainer agreement. Not Todd, I think he spent almost two hours with me as I was explaining everything.Not only was he great during the onboarding process, he was supportive and very informative through the entire plea process and eventually sentencing. After hiring him, I asked if I should hire a prison consultant, he told me to save my money as he would do everything they would. He was right and held up to his word. Later on I would hear from others that went with the prison consultants that they were a waste of money - I am glad I listened to Todd!When it came time for sentencing, two days prior to sentencing, the prosecutor tried increasing my proposed prison time by almost double - apparently a normal move. Todd and his team worked with me non-stop through the weekend prior to sentencing to ensure that I was not given additional prison time. Again, he took the time to listen and came up with a strategy to explain the case with great detail.Unfortunately, I did plead guilty as that was my best option. Todd and his whole team wrote up nearly 300 pages of a summary of what happened and why I should not be given prison time. If I breakdown the amount I spent with Todd versus the amount of work that I saw being done, I am shocked I was not charged four times as much. The other benefit was, a lot of criminal defense lawyers were just a single attorney with a paralegal or two. Todd had a team of people that I dealt with (5-7 people that I interacted with), but he was ALWAYS accessible. It would never take him more than an hour to reply unless he was in court.I was sentenced to prison and I was emotionally distraught. Todd and his team did whatever they could even after sentencing to make sure I was alright. He personally stayed in touch with my family to ensure I was doing alright and offered support to them. Most lawyers would consider the job complete at sentencing, not Todd.After prison, Todd still spent time with me to make sure I was on the right track and avoiding any potential risks in the future. He has also been giving advice on how to navigate probation etc and has not been looking at the clock for billing.Although I wish I had never been arrested in the first place, I am glad I had Todd and his team in my corner. Without them I likely would have had to spend a lot more time in prison than I did.Thank you, Todd, and the entire Spodek Law team, for helping turn what was a nightmare into a manageable situation!
I am immensely grateful to the entire team at Spodek Law Group for their unwavering dedication and exceptional expertise throughout my case. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, their professionalism and tireless advocacy made all the difference. Their strategic approach and attention to detail instilled confidence in me every step of the way.Thanks to their hard work and commitment, we achieved a truly favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. Not only did they navigate the complexities of my case with precision, but they also provided invaluable support and guidance during what was undoubtedly a challenging time. I cannot recommend Spodek Law Group highly enough, especially attorneys Todd Spodek and Claire Banks; they are beacons of excellence in the legal profession.YSP.
Todd, Ralph and Alex are amazing. Helped my husband get from a double digit number with multiple charges to a single digit, by the time I blink he will be out. They very professional and help with all your needs. They dealt with my anxiety and worry very well and they understand that your family member needs to get home as soon as possible.
Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.
I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence.Thank you team!
I recently had Spodek Law Group represent me for a legal matter in NYC and I am thoroughly impressed with their services.Alex Zhik secured the best possible outcome for my case.It was a seamless journey from the initial consultation to the resolution of my legal matter. From the moment I spoke to Todd about my case, his enthusiasm to help was evident, setting a positive tone for the entire experience. The efficiency and professionalism displayed by the team is commendable.A particularly noteworthy aspect of their service is their user-friendly portal to upload your documents/evidence. This not only simplified the process, but showcases their commitment to streamline the client experience.Lastly, in an industry where legal fees can often be a concern, I found their pricing to be very reasonable, making needing legal assistance feel accessible and stress-free.I am grateful for their support and wouldn't hesitate to turn to them again in the future.
The statute pertaining to possession of heroin is N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1). It provides that:
It is unlawful for any person, knowingly or purposely, to obtain, or to possess, actually or constructively, a controlled dangerous substance or controlled substance analog, unless the substance was obtained directly, or pursuant to a valid prescription or order form from a practitioner, while acting in the course of his professional practice, or except as otherwise authorized by P.L.1970, c.226 (C.24:21-1 et seq.). Any person who violates this section with respect to:
(1) A controlled dangerous substance, or its analog, classified in Schedule I, II, III or IV other than those specifically covered in this section, is guilty of a crime of the third degree except that, notwithstanding the provisions of subsection b. of N.J.S.2C:43-3, a fine of up to $35,000.00 may be imposed;
One of the key details of this law is the fact that possession can be either actual or constructive. Actual possession is the most common basis for an arrest under 2C:35-10 and applies if the accused has direct physical control over the heroin. Constructive possession applies if heroin isn’t physically on the person of the accused but when he/she knows it’s present and has both the intention and ability to exercise control over it in the future.
Another important detail to bear in mind is that a defendant must knowingly or purposely possess heroin in order to be convicted for possession. In other words, an individual must know that the drug is present to be in violation of this law.
Which Elements Must The Hudson County Prosecutor Establish To Convict Someone For Possession of Heroin?
Three (3) fundamental elements that each must be established beyond reasonable doubt to convict for heroin possession. The model criminal jury charge for CDS possession obligates the state to prove that:
The evidence seized was indeed heroin;
The accused actually or constructively had the drug; and
The conduct of the defendant was knowing or purposeful.
What Penalties Are There for Heroin Possession?
Possessing heroin is a third degree crime. According to the New Jersey criminal code, a defendant convicted for third degree possession of heroin could get sentenced to up to five (5) years in state prison, fined up to $35,000 and open to a host of other penalties (such as 6-12 month driver’s license suspension). They would also have a felony criminal record for possession of heroin that will show up every time an employer, licensing board, immigration or another entity performs a background check.
Do Enhanced Penalties Apply When Heroin Is Possessed In A School Zone?
Yes, they do. Although possession in a school zone does not result in a separate charge like distribution in a school zone, it nevertheless results in enhanced penalties. Possession within 1,000 feet of school grounds in Harrison, Union City, Bayonne, Weehawken or another district triggers a requirement that a defendant must also serve a minimum 100 hours of community service.
Are There Diversionary Programs To Avoid A Conviction A Third Degree Offense For Possession?
A first time offender can apply for Pretrial Intervention (“PTI”). If the Hudson County Probation Department approves the application and the prosecutor doesn’t object, you can be admitted into PTI. The related charge is dismissed successfully upon completion of 1-3 years probation under the program.
Heroin Possession Defense Attorney in Jersey City
Indeed, the penalties for a New Jersey heroin charge can be life altering. Whether a motion to suppress an improper search or seizure, a motor vehicle stop unsupported by reasonable suspicion of traffic violation or some other basis, you can rely on the knowledge and skill of our lawyers to get you a favorable result. To discuss facts in your heroin case with a lawyer on our team, contact us anytime.
