Learn more about Spodek Law Group and how we can help with your case.
As feared as the IRS is in the civilian world, there’s an agency within the Department of Justice that is equally terrifying for healthcare and drug manufacturing companies, pharmacies, and even biotech and science labs that produce and control certain substances. This is the Drug Enforcement Agency or DEA. This law enforcement agency focuses solely on the war on drugs and prosecuting individuals or organizations guilty of violating the Controlled Substance Act (CSA).
What is the Controlled Substance Act?
The Controlled Substance Act is a set of statutes that covers nearly every area of handling, processing, or prescribing a controlled substance. The act breaks down the drugs into five categories or schedules:
- Schedule 1 Drugs – Heroin, LSD, opioids, psilocybin and cannabis
- Schedule 2 Drugs – Cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, methadone, oxycodone
- Schedule 3 Drugs – Ketamine and anabolic steroids
- Schedule 4 Drugs – Xanax, valium, or any substance that can be used for legitimate medical treatment
- Schedule 5 Drugs – Substances with a limited use not available on the open market
Every person or entity that handles or prescribes drugs from Schedule 2 or higher must have a valid DEA registration. This includes dispensing and purity testing – even in very small amounts.
New Jersey DEA Process
One of the primary functions of the DEA is to register individuals and businesses. These regulations state that you must re-register with the DEA at least once every three years. You must provide extensive supporting documentation and background check information.
There are significant risks in failing a DEA inspection, application process, or even a routine audit. Failure can mean that your DEA registration could be revoked. Other penalties involve the loss of one’s medical license, debarment from federal healthcare programs, criminal charges, civil fines and penalties, and even prison time.
How New Jersey DEA Lawyers Can Help – Medicine
Situations that may trigger DEA investigation include:
- Requesting details about why a certain medicine was prescribed to a certain patient
- Allegations of malpractice or a wrongful death lawsuit
- Attempting to treat opioid dependency with other drugs
- Writing prescriptions without the consent of a patient
- Failure to make use of adequate pain protocols
- Operating a pill mill
- Giving out too many prescriptions
We are the Spodek Law Group
One of the most valuable parts of our courtroom team is the ex-DEA specialist agents and consultants we have working for us. With over forty years of agency experience, these individuals have acquired the knowledge necessary to understand the DEA’s specific policies and procedures. Our attorneys will use this knowledge as corroborating evidence when filing motions and litigating various motions or hearings.
If you find yourself or your business in this situation, you need to get a New Jersey DEA defense attorney. Contact us today.
Reduction in pretrial jail population since NJ bail reform implementation.
Source: NJ Judiciary Annual ReportApproval rate for properly filed expungement petitions in NJ.
Source: NJ Courts Statistical ReportCommon Mistakes to Avoid
Actually Stay Silent
Most people know they have the right to remain silent but still talk to police. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions until your attorney is present.
Bail Conditions Are Enforceable
Violating bail conditions, even minor ones, can result in immediate re-arrest and make it much harder to obtain bail again. Follow every condition to the letter.
Proven Track Record
Recent Case Results
*Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
SEE ALL CASE RESULTSWhat Our Clients Say
"When the federal government came after me, Todd and his team were the only ones who made me feel like I had a real chance. They understood the system inside and out and got my case dismissed."— Michael T., Federal Defense Client MORE REVIEWS
Lead Attorney & Founder
Todd Spodek
Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience to every case.
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Frequently Asked Questions
New Jersey reformed its bail system in 2017. Instead of a cash-based system, judges now use a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) to determine whether a defendant should be released pretrial. Most defendants are released with conditions, while those deemed high-risk may be detained. An experienced attorney can argue for favorable release conditions at your detention hearing.
No. You have the constitutional right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning. Anything you say to police can be used against you in court. Politely invoke your rights by saying "I want to speak with my attorney before answering any questions." This cannot be held against you.
Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of the case, the charges involved, and whether the case goes to trial. At Spodek Law Group, we offer transparent pricing and flexible payment plans. We provide a free initial consultation to discuss your case and give you an honest assessment of costs. Investing in quality representation often saves far more in the long run than choosing the cheapest option.
An arraignment is your first court appearance after being charged with a crime. The judge will read the charges against you, and you'll enter a plea (usually not guilty at this stage). The judge will also set bail or release conditions. Having an attorney at your arraignment is critical, as they can advocate for favorable bail terms and begin building your defense strategy from day one.
Why Clients Choose Spodek Law Group
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