New Jersey's criminal justice system recognizes that not every drug offense warrants harsh penalties or a permanent criminal record. For many first-time and non-violent offenders, the state offers several drug diversion programs that focus on rehabilitation and second chances rather than punishment. Understanding these options is crucial for anyone facing drug charges in New Jersey.

If you are accused of a drug offense, you need a strong defense. Contact the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or schedule a consultation online for more information.

Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for First-Time Drug Offenders

The Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) program is one of New Jersey's most well-known diversion options for those charged with indictable (felony) drug offenses. PTI is typically reserved for first-time offenders who have not previously been convicted of a crime or participated in a similar program. The goal is to divert eligible individuals away from the traditional criminal justice process and into a period of supervised rehabilitation.

Participants in PTI may be required to complete community service, attend counseling sessions, undergo drug testing, and meet other court-ordered conditions. If the individual successfully completes the program, charges are dismissed, and they avoid a conviction. After this, they can petition to have the arrest and related proceedings expunged. PTI is valuable for those who have made a one-time mistake and want to turn their lives around.

Conditional Discharge for Minor Drug Possession Charges

For those facing less serious drug charges, such as possession of marijuana or drug paraphernalia, New Jersey offers the Conditional Discharge program. This option is available to individuals charged with disorderly persons offenses involving controlled dangerous substances (CDS), if they have no prior drug convictions or participation in PTI or conditional discharge.

Under this program, the defendant is placed under court supervision, usually for one year, and must remain arrest-free and comply with all conditions. If the participant completes the program without incident, the original charges are dismissed, at which point the offender can request an expungement of their arrest record. This path gives minor offenders the chance to avoid a criminal record.

Drug Court (Recovery Court) for Substance Abuse Rehabilitation

New Jersey's Drug Court (now called Recovery Court) is a program designed for individuals whose criminal behavior is driven by substance abuse. Unlike other drug diversion programs, Recovery Court is more intensive, requiring frequent court appearances, strict supervision, and mandatory participation in substance abuse treatment programs.

This path is often a last chance for repeat offenders or those facing more serious charges. However, once a participant successfully completes the program, they can request an expungement for their entire criminal record, including prior offenses, with some exceptions for the most serious crimes.

How the Lento Law Firm Criminal Law Team Can Help

If you or a loved one is facing drug charges in New Jersey, choosing the right defense attorney can make all the difference. The Lento Criminal Law Team is the premier New Jersey criminal law firm known for its strategic use of diversion programs to protect clients' futures. Our attorneys are skilled at negotiating entry into PTI, conditional discharge, and Drug Court, as well as guiding clients through the expungement process.

To learn more about how we can help, call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or schedule a consultation online.