Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer in Somerset County, New Jersey
Importation of controlled substances in Somerset County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. Title 2C, carrying severe penalties including mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Somerset County, providing dedicated representation for those facing these charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Understanding Controlled Substance Importation Charges in Somerset County
Importation of controlled substances is prosecuted under the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, specifically N.J.S.A. Title 2C. This offense involves bringing controlled dangerous substances into New Jersey from another state or country. In Somerset County, these cases are heard at the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage, located at 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876. The penalties for importation of controlled substances can include significant prison time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience. Advocacy Without Borders is the firm’s guiding principle, ensuring clients receive dedicated representation regardless of the complexity of their case.
Last verified: May 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statutes governing controlled substance importation in New Jersey, refer to the following government sources:
Insider Knowledge: How Somerset County Prosecutors Handle Importation Cases
In the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage, prosecutors routinely seek mandatory minimum sentences for importation of controlled substances. We have observed that early intervention and a strong defense strategy can significantly impact the outcome.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Contact a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Somerset County immediately.
- Preserve all evidence and documents related to your case.
- Understand the charges and potential penalties under N.J.S.A. Title 2C.
- Work with your lawyer to develop a defense strategy.
- Attend all court hearings at the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage.
In Somerset County, importation of controlled substances carries severe penalties under N.J.S.A. Title 2C, including mandatory minimum sentences based on the type and quantity of the substance.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Importation of Controlled Substances (1st degree) | 1st Degree Crime | 10-20 years (presumption of imprisonment) | Up to $200,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory minimum sentence; no parole; permanent criminal record |
| Importation of Controlled Substances (2nd degree) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (presumption of imprisonment) | Up to $150,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory minimum sentence; no parole; permanent criminal record |
| Importation of Controlled Substances (3rd degree) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $75,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Somerset County Case
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm’s commitment to Advocacy Without Borders means you receive dedicated representation regardless of the complexity of your case. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands how the state builds its cases and can develop effective defense strategies.
Your Legal Team
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Somerset County, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Tinton Falls is approximately 40 miles from the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage, with access via I-287, Route 22, Route 206, and Route 28.
If you are searching for a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Somerset County, we are here to help.
Serving the communities of Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Phone: (609) 983-0003
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Controlled Substance Importation Charges in Somerset County
Does New Jersey have cash bail?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in January 2017 under the Criminal Justice Reform Act. Pretrial release in Somerset County is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) — a computerized risk score, not money. There are no bail bondsmen in NJ. Cases heard at Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
No, New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017. Pretrial release is based on a risk assessment, not money.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) in Somerset County, New Jersey?
PTI is a diversionary program for first-time indictable (felony) offenders in Somerset County. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision results in complete dismissal of charges. Applications processed through Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage. Conditional discharge is the Municipal Court equivalent for first-time drug possession. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
PTI is a diversion program for first-time felony offenders. Successful completion leads to dismissal of charges.
Can I get my NJ criminal record expunged?
Yes. NJ allows expungement after waiting periods: 5 years for indictable crimes, 2 years for disorderly persons. NJ’s Clean Slate law expanded eligibility. PTI completions result in automatic dismissal. Petitions filed in Somerset County Superior Court. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Yes, New Jersey allows expungement after waiting periods of 5 years for indictable crimes and 2 years for disorderly persons offenses.
What is a disorderly persons offense in Somerset County, NJ?
A disorderly persons offense is NJ’s equivalent of a misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail/$1,000 fine. Heard in Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876). Petty disorderly persons: up to 30 days/$500. Indictable crimes (felonies) are heard in Somerset County Superior Court. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
A disorderly persons offense is New Jersey’s equivalent of a misdemeanor, carrying up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney and carry harsher penalties with no parole.
How does a lawyer defend against importation of controlled substances charges?
Defense strategies for importation of controlled substances may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under N.J.S.A. Title 2C to build the strongest possible defense.
Defense strategies include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, and negotiating with prosecutors.
What should I do if I am facing importation of controlled substances charges?
If facing importation of controlled substances charges, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under New Jersey law require prompt action.
Contact a lawyer immediately, do not discuss your case with anyone, and preserve all evidence.
Related Legal Resources
For more information about criminal defense in New Jersey, visit our Disorderly Persons Offense Lawyer New Jersey page.
Explore related practice areas in other localities:
Last verified: May 2026