Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) in a Motor Vehicle

Oceanport NJ Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) in a Motor Vehicle Defense Lawyers

In New Jersey, there are multiple charges that may arise from a situation in which you are found in possession of a controlled dangerous substance while occupying a vehicle. For example, while a law enforcement officer may charge you with possession of a marijuana, he or she may also issue you a motor vehicle summons for possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) in a motor vehicle. The latter charge is entirely separate from the former and entails significant penalties, including a mandatory 2-year period of driver’s license suspension. When faced with a situation of this kind, the best first step is to contact a knowledgeable defense attorney who can help to guide you through this ordeal and ultimately emerge on the other side without having to bear the full weight of potential consequences.

Notably, a charge for possession of CDS in a motor vehicle encompasses situations involving a variety of controlled dangerous substances, ranging from illegal drugs like cocaine and heroin to prescription drugs without a valid prescription. Regardless of the specific substance associated with the charge, a conviction for possession of CDS in a motor vehicle is punishable by a mandatory period of driver’s license suspension that extends for 2 years, in addition to financial penalties.

If you are found guilty of possession of CDS within a motor vehicle, the hardship of losing your license for 2 years may affect your life both personally and professionally. The attorneys at Chamlin, Uliano & Walsh will work tirelessly to help you avoid these life-altering consequences. Having accumulated a breadth of experience representing clients in cases involving both criminal offenses and motor vehicle violations in Monmouth and Ocean counties, these talented lawyers have the knowledge and dedication to serve as your advantage in court. If you receive a motor vehicle summons such as possession of CDS in a motor vehicle, contact a member of their legal defense at 732-440-3950 for an initial consultation.

Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) in a Motor Vehicle in Monmouth County: N.J.S.A. 39:4-49.1

New Jersey details all motor vehicle violations under Title 39, specifically addressing drug-related charges for Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle in N.J.S.A. 39:4-49.1. This statute provides:

(a)  No person shall operate a motor vehicle on any highway while knowingly having in his possession or in the motor vehicle any controlled dangerous substance as classified in Schedules I, II, III, IV and V of the “New Jersey Controlled Dangerous Substances Act,” P.L.1970, c. 226 (C. 24:21-1 et seq.) or any prescription legend drug, unless the person has obtained the substance or drug from, or on a valid written prescription of, a duly licensed physician, veterinarian, dentist or other medical practitioner licensed to write prescriptions intended for the treatment or prevention of disease in man or animals or unless the person possesses a controlled dangerous substance pursuant to a lawful order of a practitioner or lawfully possesses a Schedule V substance.

(b)  A person who violates this section shall be fined not less than $50.00 and shall forthwith forfeit his right to operate a motor vehicle for a period of two (2) years from the date of his conviction.

NOTE: the aforementioned penalties are to be imposed in addition to any other punishments associated with a conviction for criminal drug charges such as heroin possession or possession of drug paraphernalia.

Contact Belmar NJ Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) in a Motor Vehicle Attorneys for Help

If you or someone you love is facing a motor vehicle violation such as Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle in Monmouth County, New Jersey, contact the offices of Chamlin, Uliano & Walsh at 732-440-3950. One of the firm’s skilled defense lawyers will be happy to evaluate your case, to provide answers to your pressing questions, and to discuss the alternatives that may be available to you.