New Jersey Criminal Defense Blog

A 55-year-old Boonton man faces up to seven years in prison after police discovered at least 50 marijuana plants growing in the man's basement during a welfare check, reports The Daily Record. A worried neighbor told police that the man's grass had not been cut, his mail was piling up and his car had not moved in three weeks. As the man walked up to his property, he found police searching his home.

Originally, the man was charged with a first degree offense of possession of marijuana with intent to sell, which carries a prison sentence of up to 20 years. The man entered into a plea bargain, which reduced the charge to a second degree crime.

New Jersey marijuana charges are serious offenses which can alter an individual's life significantly. Many factors go into determining the type of charges that can be filed, including the age of the suspect, whether or not there are prior criminal convictions, and the amount of the substance found on the person or in their home. In addition to fines and a permanent criminal record, individuals who are convicted of marijuana-related crimes can face significant prison sentences.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a marijuana crime in New Jersey, you would be well advised to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure that your rights are upheld in a court of law. Depending on the circumstances of your case, a dedicated Princeton marijuana defense attorney like those at Lependorf Silverstein may be able to get your charges reduced or your case thrown out. There are many questions that need to be answered before a conviction can be handed down. Was the arrest necessary and made according to all federal regulations? Did police follow all proper procedures when searching the person or property? Our attorneys will examine every detail of your case to ensure the best possible outcome. For a free consultation of your New Jersey marijuana crime case, please call Lependorf Silverstein at (609) 240-0040 today.