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Public Park & Housing Charges

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DISTRIBUTION OF MARIJUANA WITHIN A PUBLIC PARK OR HOUSING PROJECT AREA

When charged with distribution of marijuana, there are certain factors that can lead to an increased charge.  Every case is unique and comes with its own set of charges that arise from the specific factual scenario. For example, a person may be charged with simple possession of marijuana, or both simple possession and possession with intent to distribute for the same act.  An additional charge that often results when a person is charged with drug distribution is called ‘distribution within 500 feet of a public housing facility, park and building’. I have a lot of experience defending clients against this charge, and if you have been charged with distribution of marijuana and would like to speak with a skilled attorney about your options, please contact me for a free initial consultation at 1-866-664-8118, and I will answer your questions.

Having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side has great advantages in court.

The law firm of Palumbo & Renaud defend individuals charged with marijuana crimes throughout New Jersey in Middlesex County, Essex County and Union County including the towns of Elizabeth, Westfield, Cranford, Garwood, Mountainside, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, Roselle Park, Springfield, Kenilworth, Union, and Scotch Plains.

Public Park & Housing Law

Under N.J.S.A. 2C: 35-7.1, when a person is caught distributing less than 1 ounce of marijuana within 500 feet of a public park, public facility, or public housing, the distribution charge is upgraded to a third degree crime which carries 3 to 5 years in prison.  For more than 1 ounce of marijuana or any other drug, the charge is upgraded to a second degree crime which carries 5 to 10 years in prison.

Defending the Charge

Unfortunately, it is not a defense that the defendant was unaware of his location.  However, there are viable defenses against this charge.  One of the defenses against this charge is that the defendant did not have the intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance for profit, and that the situation did not involve distribution to someone under 17-years-old.  This is one of several complicated defenses that can be exercised on your behalf.  Dismissal of this charge alone can make a huge difference in the penalties you face so it is important to choose an attorney who is familiar with these defenses.

I have 39 years of experience assisting individuals who have been charged with distribution of marijuana within 500 feet of a public facility.  I know how the prosecution works, and I have the knowledge of which defenses are most effective in fighting your marijuana charge.  Contact me today for a free initial consultation at 1-866-664-8118.  You may have your consultation by phone or in person at your convenience.  I am always happy to answer any questions that you have.

I defend individuals throughout New Jersey in Middlesex County, Essex County, Somerset County, and Union County including the towns of Linden, Clark, Cranford, Elizabeth, Rahway, Westfield, Garwood, Mountainside, Plainfield, Roselle, Roselle Park, Rahway, and Hillside.

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I am Anthony N. Palumbo, an experienced and aggressive criminal and municipal defense lawyer, and I represent clients throughout North Jersey, including the communities of Berkeley Heights, Eatontown, Fanwood, Garwood, Kearny, Elizabeth, Woodbridge, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Westfield, Cranford, Roselle, Roselle Park, Springfield, Plainfield, Maplewood, Scotch Plains, Kenilworth, Summit, Union Township, Sayreville, Piscataway, Edison, New Brunswick, East Brunswick, North Brunswick, Perth Amboy and Newark; and other locations in Union County, Middlesex County, Somerset County, Hudson County, Essex County, Morris County, Ocean County and Monmouth County, New Jersey.

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Main Office:   190 North Ave. E.   |   Cranford, New Jersey 07016   |   Toll Free 866-664-8118   |   Map and Directions
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South Orange, NJ:   Serving Essex County   |   Call for an Appointment    Toll Free 866-664-8118  
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