Camden Federal Drug Crime Lawyer

Camden Federal Drug Crime Attorney

While being accused of any crime in Camden can be frightening, federal drug charges can be especially serious. The consequences of a federal drug crime conviction can be far-reaching, including jail time, fines, and long-term social and financial effects. If you are in the Camden area and facing federal drug charges, do not wait to seek legal representation and support from a skilled Camden federal drug crime lawyer.​

About Tim Anderson Law

At Tim Anderson Law, we approach every case with the care, compassion, and empathy our clients deserve. Our lead attorney, Tim Anderson, has over 30 years of experience defending clients against state and federal charges. He is particularly skilled in pre-trial representation and combines that experience with extensive legal knowledge to fiercely protect his clients’ rights. Our office is located on Broad Street in Red Bank, making it easily accessible to Camden clients.

​Understanding Federal Drug Charges in Camden, New Jersey

​Drug use is an unfortunately common problem across the United States. In Camden County alone, 1,930 people were treated at hospitals in 2023 for drug-related illnesses. Additionally, the state reported 2,564 deaths attributed to drug overdoses that same year, 326 of which were in Camden County. That figure comes out to a death rate of 52.9 per 100,00 residents of Camden County.

While most drug offenses are tried at the state level, certain charges with elevated stakes may be classified as federal drug crimes. These crimes are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and convictions can result in long-term penalties.​

What Constitutes a Federal Drug Crime?

​Not every drug crime in Camden is categorized as a federal drug offense. The exact nature of a charge and its circumstances, such as the amount of a drug the defendant was carrying, and the defendant’s intent, can all impact whether a drug crime is prosecuted at the state or federal level.

The following are common federal drug crimes:​

• Moving Illegal Drugs Across State or International Borders: Drug offenses, including minor drug trafficking, usually fall under the jurisdiction of the state in which the illegal activity occurs. If a person moves illicit substances across state lines or national borders, however, federal-level prosecution is much more likely.
• Committing Drug Offenses With or Involving Federal Property: Any and all property owned by the United States government is subject to federal regulation. Therefore, if a person is caught with drugs on federal property, whether it is simple possession or the more serious charges of distribution or trafficking, jurisdiction over the case automatically goes to the federal government.
• Possessing Large Quantities of Illegal Substances: If the amount of the illegal substance in question is significant enough, federal charges may be warranted. When a person is found to possess these quantities of a controlled substance, law enforcement assumes that the defendant intended to sell or otherwise distribute the substance. Therefore, penalties are more severe than state penalties for simple possession.

Possible Consequences of Federal Drug Charges for Camden Residents​

Possible consequences for federal drug charges can be severe, ranging from significant fines to lengthy prison sentences. The thresholds for mandatory minimum prison sentences are set by the federal Controlled Substances Act. Potential penalties for federal drug crimes include:

• ​Prison time ranging from a few years to a life sentence
• Mandatory minimum sentences of 5 years or 10 years, depending on the type and amount of drug involved
• Multi-million-dollar fines
• Permanent criminal record
• Potential asset forfeiture

The type of federal drug crime a defendant is convicted of will impact their minimum mandatory prison sentence. For example, if a person possessed one kilogram of heroin or more, the minimum mandatory prison sentence is ten years, but a judge can impose up to a life sentence. The defendant may also be fined up to $10,000,000. However, for possessing five grams of methamphetamine, the minimum prison sentence is five years, with fines up to $5,000,000.

​Hire a Federal Drug Crime Lawyer in Camden

​If you think you may be facing federal charges for drug-related offenses in Camden, it’s imperative that you hire a federal drug crime lawyer. A skilled criminal defense lawyer who has experience with federal criminal trials can be an invaluable resource as you navigate complex legal proceedings, as they can protect your rights and build a powerful defense on your behalf.

At Tim Anderson Law, our founding attorney combines his extensive criminal defense knowledge, insight into federal court procedures, and passion for justice to advocate for his clients and their futures.

​FAQs

​How Is Drug Trafficking Different From Drug Possession in New Jersey?​

The difference between drug trafficking and drug possession in New Jersey lies mainly in the amount of substances involved. Simple drug possession usually involves small amounts of an illegal substance. In contrast, drug trafficking involves larger amounts of a substance, making it possible for law enforcement to assume that the intent was to move the drugs to be sold or distributed. Possessing large amounts of illegal substances can lead to federal drug charges.

​What Qualifies as a Controlled Substance in New Jersey?​

Controlled substances are defined at the federal level, meaning they are the same in every state. Essentially, controlled substances include plants, chemicals, or compounds that the government believes have high potential to be abused or addictive. Substances are divided into five classes, or schedules, based on their addictive potential and legitimate uses, or lack thereof. Most controlled substances are highly addictive and can range from heroin to opioids.

​Does Possession of Marijuana in New Jersey Come With a Prison Sentence?

​No, simple possession of marijuana in New Jersey does not carry a mandatory federal prison sentence, especially in the absence of prior convictions. The Controlled Substances Act states that if a person possesses less than 50 kilograms of marijuana, a judge can impose a prison sentence of up to five years, but there is no mandatory minimum. There are mandatory minimum sentences for larger amounts that indicate intent to distribute or traffic.

How Can a Camden Drug Crime Attorney Help Me?

An experienced Camden drug crime attorney can benefit a federal drug crime case in a myriad of ways. Skilled drug crime lawyers have the knowledge needed to not only build a strong defense on your behalf, but they can also work to scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, identify any violation of your rights, and advocate to protect your future. They can also help you better understand the charges you’re facing and what legal options are available to you.

Contact Tim Anderson Law Today

​If you are facing federal drug charges in Camden, you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Tim Anderson Law today to secure compassionate and effective legal representation as you navigate your case.