Drug Crimes in New Jersey

Drug crimes are often charged based on their scheduled classification. Most drugs are divided into five different schedules, each of which affects the minimum sentencing and legal charges. Below, we will discuss each schedule of drug.

Schedule I Controlled Drugs

A Scheduled I controlled substance includes the most addictive drugs. This schedule also includes drugs that are not used for a medical purpose and that are not supervised by the government. These drugs often carry the most severe legal charges.

You will find the following drugs in Schedule I:

• GHB
• LSD
• Marijuana
• MDMA
• Peyote

Schedule II Controlled Drugs

Similar to Schedule I controlled substances, Schedule II drugs also have a high risk of substance abuse. Drugs and other medications that are approved for medical use may be included in Schedule II. Additionally, Schedule II drugs have the chance of psychological or physical addiction. Schedule II drugs require a prescription and only a one-time prescription is allowed for use.

You will find the following drugs in Schedule II:

• Cocaine
• Ritalin
• Amphetamines
• Opium
• Oxycodone
• Morphine
• Hydromorphone
• Barbiturates

Schedule III Controlled Drugs

Drugs found in the Schedule III Controlled Substances are drugs with a risk of abuse. These drugs also have an accepted medical use and a moderate to low risk of physical addiction and a high risk of psychological addiction. Schedule III drugs require a written or verbal prescription. Prescriptions are only good for six months and a maximum of five refills. These drugs carry fewer restrictions that higher scheduled drugs.

You will find the following drugs in Schedule III:

• Anabolic steroids
• Ketamine
• Hydrocodone
• Paregoric
• Benzphetamine HCI
• Fast-acting barbiturates
• Ergine
• Marinol

Schedule IV Controlled Drugs

Drugs in the Schedule IV have a low risk for abuse, have an accepted medical use, and ongoing use of the drug can lead to physical or psychological dependence. Schedule IV drugs have the same prescription requirements as Schedule III drugs.

You will find the following drugs in Schedule IV:

• Benzodiazepines
• Temazepam
• Chloral hydrate
• Tramadol
• Modafinil
• Carisoprodol
• Flunitrazepam
• Long-acting barbiturates

Schedule V Controlled Drugs

Schedule V controlled drugs have a low chance of abuse, an accepted medical treatment use, and a minimal chance of psychological or physical dependence. While the prescription requirements for Schedule V drugs are less strict than other classes, a prescription is still required.

You will find the following drugs in Schedule V:

• Cough suppressants with codeine
• Medications with small amounts of opium
• Some anticonvulsants
• Pyrovalerone

What to Know About the Controlled Substance Schedules

You might wonder what the different schedules of drugs mean to you. Depending on a drug’s schedule, it can be more difficult to obtain, even if you have a medical need. Additionally, if you are charged with possession of an illegal substance, the legal charges that you face will be dictated by the drug’s schedule.
Drugs that fall into Schedule I will carry larger fines and potential jail time. Drugs in Schedule V do not have as strict of legal requirements. Depending on your charges and the schedule of drugs you had in possession at the time of arrest, it may be necessary to work with a criminal defense lawyer.

Contact an Experienced Summit Drug Defense Attorney About Your Drug Crime Charges in New Jersey

Have you been charged with a drug related offense in New Jersey? A drug crime conviction can carry with it heavy fines, jail time, and driver’s license suspension! That is why it is imperative that you speak with a qualified drug defense lawyer about your case. Zegas Law represents clients charged with use, possession, production, distribution, and related drug offenses in Summit, Murray Hill, Green Village, Short Hills, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 379-1999 or fill out our confidential online contact form to schedule a consultation about your case. We have an office located at 60 Morris Turnpike, Summit, NJ 07091.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.