There is no sure answer to the question posed above. Every individual’s case is unique because the circumstances always vary. Depending on the specific elements alleged in the formal complaint, charges in cocaine related cases in New Jersey can run the gamut from simple possession to more serious intent to sell and distribution.
The one thing that is certain is that the repercussions of a run in with the law are serious. A conviction for possession of even less than half an ounce of cocaine can bring a sentence of up to five years in prison and a fine of as much as $75,000. Penalties are harsher as the quantity involved increases. Consequences being what they are the depth and breadth of your attorney’s experience is bound to make a difference.
The way an attorney hones his or her skills is through direct practice. Law school may teach a student to look at both sides of a case and assess theory, but understanding every step of the legal process from the time a complaint is filed, through the variety of court appearances and possible trial is an education unto itself.
Because the legal system is an adversarial one, there’s much to learn about how each side operates. Not every attorney gets the opportunity to gain skills from directly practicing on both sides. That is not the case at The Law Offices of Anthony N. Palumbo. If you are facing drug-related charges, you will want to be confident that the attorney you consult with has a familiarity with the system gleaned from solid experience.