High School Students in New Jersey Charged with Smoking Marijuana
A 17-year-old boy was charged with possession of marijuana after he and two other teenagers were allegedly found with the drug. According to The Hunterdon County Democrat, the incident occurred at North Hunterdon High School in Clinton Township. School administrators allegedly found a makeshift pipe and marijuana in the 17-year-old boy’s backpack. He faces juvenile charges for possession of under 50 grams of marijuana as well as possession of drug paraphernalia.
New Jersey statute 2C:35-10 makes it a disorderly person offense to possess 50 grams or less of marijuana. Juveniles charged with New Jersey marijuana possession may face a wide range of penalties. Depending on the circumstances, juveniles may face enrollment in mandatory drug treatment programs, required community service hours, fines and even detention in juvenile hall. The extent of the penalties may be related to the juvenile's prior record, the amount of marijuana found and whether or not the police believe the juvenile was planning on distributing the drug.
Having the right representation when dealing with New Jersey’s juvenile justice system may affect the penalties a minor could face. The New Jersey juvenile justice system is based on the adult criminal justice system but instead of focusing on penalties it focuses on rehabilitation. Experienced attorneys will make sure that this ideal is upheld and that your son or daughter receives that valuable second chance.
The aggressive Princeton marijuana defense attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein fight to protect the rights of juveniles of New Jersey. If your child is facing criminal charges in New Jersey, please contact our law offices at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help.
