NJ Overdose Immunity Law

The state of New Jersey has been working in the past months to try and boost the awareness of the Overdose Prevention Act, which could result in less drug charges for users in an effort save many. This past May, the state passed and signed into law the Overdose Prevention Act, which is designed to give immunity to both those who could potentially be overdosing and those who are looking to alert health professionals in order to save their friends. In the past other drug users did not want to involve themselves in the act of calling 911 in order to seek help. For decades those who were at the scene of the drug overdose would be taken into custody for charges of drug use or possession, which kept many from potentially acting to save others lives due to the fear of imprisonment. As a result of consequences to those who report, many users of heroin, cocaine and other controlled dangerous substances (CDS) there have been an unreasonable number of deaths from drug overdoses. Because death is a frequent and tragic consequence of CDS use, this legislation has been enacted to encourage others to seek help when someone’s life could be in jeopardy. The Overdose Protection Act is written to protect both the user potentially overdosing and any others that are alerting the authorities from drug use or possession charges. Just weeks ago New Jersey’s Attorney’s General Office sent out a directive to all law enforcement agencies to remind them to implement the law properly in order for it achieve the results the state wishes. With the new act implemented the state is hoping for a sharp decrease in deaths due to drug overdoses. Possession, distribution or other drug charges in NJ have serious consequences. If you are facing any of these charges you should seek experienced legal counsel immediately to protect your rights. For more information on possession, distribution, prescription drug charges, CDS in a motor vehicle or other drug charges in New Jersey visit HeatherDarlingLawyer.com this blog is for informational purposes only and not intended to replace the advice of legal counsel.