Charged with Drug Possession in New Jersey?

The United States of America is still known around the world as a land of opportunity and promise, which makes it attractive for millions of immigrants to come to the States every year. Whether you came here through family or through a student visa or maybe an employment opportunity, America still is a land of dreams and a wonderful place to pursue them. 

As an immigrant in the United States, however, you are subject to increased attention and scrutiny by the U.S. government.  This is shown through the fact that your immigration status can be negatively affected with certain crimes and violations that are committed in the U.S.  Immigrants do not have the same full range of legal protection and rights that are available to a U.S. citizen.  As a result, criminal behavior on the part of an immigrant can have profound consequences.

What Other Consequences Can I Face With A Drug Possession Charge In The United States?

Drug possession carries serious punishments in many parts of the United States, and can ruin the lives of any person in America.   Jail time and steep fines are often involved. For a non-citizen, being caught with drugs is even more disastrous. A relatively minor drug offense can lead to either inadmissibility to prospective immigrants or deportation for current non-citizen residents. A misdemeanor, an expunged offense (in the states that allow expungement) or a lack of a conviction doesn’t mean you’re in the clear either.

Even having a green card does not afford protection from these outcomes, and if you are found to be involved with drug use, possession of trafficking it can result in being barred from citizenship status or continued residence within the United States.  As you can see, you can very easily jeopardize your future as a US citizen or immigrant by any sort of involvement with narcotics.

What Should I Do If I Am An Immigrant And Being Charged With A Drug Crime?

If you’ve just been charged with a drug offense, be it simple possession or a more serious federal crime, it’s easy to feel as if the sky is falling on your head. Although many aspects of the legal system can be scary and have significant consequences, hiring the right attorney can go a long way. With the help of a lawyer with experience in criminal and immigration law, you may be able to avoid the worst outcomes in favor of something more manageable. In some cases, you might even be able to get your charges reduced or even dismissed.

Don’t go this alone. The legal system is complicated and very difficult to manage if you don’t have some legal expertise. Every word you say, every document you sign and every minute you spend without a lawyer advising you may inadvertently lead you down a wrong path.  Having someone by your side who understands these matters will increase your chances of returning back to the life you knew – or the life you want.

If you are in need of a qualified attorney with experience in Immigration law, contact Rosenblum Law today. We are available to assist you every step of the way and will defend you capably and effectively.