New Jersey Rethinks Marijuana Law as Tides Shift in the War on Drugs

July 14, 2012

New Jersey Rethinks Marijuana Law as Tides Shift in the War on Drugs

After four decades, 46 million arrests and $1.5 trillion in spending, America's "war on drugs" appears to have made little progress, according to a recent news report by The Daily Journal. The rate of drug addiction in the U.S. is holding stead today at 1.3 percent of the population, according to a quote from former New Jersey police lieutenant Jack Cole, which is the same as it was in when the war on drugs began in 1970 -- as well as nearly a century ago in 1914.

Lawmakers in New Jersey and around the country have begun to take note of the rising prison costs and lackluster progress attributed to existing drug laws, and many are trying a new approach. Recently, the New Jersey Assembly approved a bill that aims to decriminalize the possession of marijuana in small quantities. If passed, the new law would make New Jersey the 16th state to enact such a measure.

Under the proposed law, people found with up to half an ounce (15 grams) of marijuana would be charged with a civil violation more akin to a parking ticket than a criminal offense. Rather than serving criminal sentences, violators would be required to pay civil fines ranging from $150 to $500. Similar measures have been enacted in 15 other states.

Supporters of the bill believe that the existing penalties for marijuana possession are out of proportion with the severity of the offense, and that the proposed changes would free up law enforcement resources to focus on more serious crimes. However, according to news reports, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has stated that he will veto the bill if it reaches his desk, claiming that the law would send the wrong message to children about drug use and may pave the way to the eventual legalization of marijuana.

Under the existing law in New Jersey, possession of marijuana is a criminal offense punishable by fines, imprisonment and suspension of driving privileges. The conviction also appears as a disorderly persons offense on a person's criminal record and cannot be expunged for a minimum of five years.

If you are charged with a drug crime in New Jersey, be sure to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. A lawyer with background defending clients against drug charges will fight hard on your behalf and make sure your rights are protected.

Article provided by Heather J. Darling, Esq., L.L.C.
Visit us at http://www.heatherdarlinglawyer.com