Conditional Discharge of Marijuana Charges

The law in New Jersey provides individuals with one opportunity to avoid a conviction for simple possession of marijuana. This diversion is referred to as a conditional discharge. In order to obtain this relief, various conditions must be met by an individual and our attorneys are adapt in achieving qualification for our clients. If you or a loved one is exposed to a disorderly persons offense for possession of less than fifty (50) grams of marijuana, a lawyer from our firm, the Law Offices of Marshall, Bonus, Proetta & Oliver, can help you. We handle marijuana offenses statewide including Middlesex County, Union County, Monmouth County, and Ocean County. Our lawyers possess decades of experience handling marijuana charges and are available to assist you 24/7 at 1-877-450-8301.

New Jersey Conditional Discharge Law – N.J.S.A. 2C:36A-1

The guidelines for obtaining conditional discharge of a marijuana possession, marijuana use or marijuana paraphernalia charge are contained at N.J.S.A. 2C:36A-1. This law covers not only disorderly persons drug charges relating to marijuana but also depressants, stimulants and hallucinogenic drugs. Where this type of charge is involved, an application may be made by our attorneys to have an accused granted a conditional discharge thereby suspending proceedings for up to two years. If the accused completes the suspension period without any violations (e.g. new offenses), the original marijuana offense is dismissed. This process is referred to in New Jersey as a conditional discharge. In order to qualify for a conditional discharge, a defendant must present an application with the Court which demonstrates the following: (1) the defendant has no prior drug offenses; (2) the defendant has never been afforded a diversion of charges previously (e.g. Pretrial Intervention or Conditional Discharge); and (3) it is in the best interests of the community to afford the defendant the opportunity for a conditional discharge.

Although marijuana possession charges are less serious than scheduled narcotics and drugs, a conviction can nevertheless have long-term consequences. An experienced marijuana lawyer can certainly reduce the chances of any negative consequence. Please afford yourself the opportunity to speak to one of our attorneys before you make any decisions. Contact us today because initial consultations with our law firm are always free of charge and an attorney is available to speak to you now at 1-877-450-8301.