Accused of Possession Of Marijuana With Intent to Distribute in Rockingham County? Get Aggressive Legal Defense Now
If you’re facing charges for Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, it’s essential to have a criminal defense attorney who understands the law, the courts, and how to protect your future. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we represent individuals charged with drug crimes across Rockingham County, from Brentwood, Candia, Derry, Hampton, Portsmouth, or Salem, with a strong focus on realistic outcomes and effective legal strategy.
Our team includes aggressive trial attorneys and a former prosecutor who brings valuable insight into how the state builds drug cases. We don’t just look at the charges. We look at the facts, your rights, and every possible path toward the best resolution. Whether that means fighting the charges in court or negotiating for reduced consequences, our goal is to help you move forward and not let one mistake define your life.
Understanding the Law: Marijuana Possession With Intent in New Hampshire
Under New Hampshire law, marijuana is still considered a controlled drug, even though some personal use has been decriminalized. When law enforcement believes that you possessed marijuana with the intent to distribute, they can charge you under RSA 318-B:2.
Possession with intent is treated more seriously than simple possession. It doesn’t require that you were caught in the act of selling. Prosecutors may try to infer your intent based on:
- The amount of marijuana
- Packaging (multiple baggies)
- Presence of scales, ledgers, or cash
- Communications on your phone or social media
Potential Penalties
If you’re charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute under RSA 318-B:26, the penalties depend on the amount and your prior criminal history. Even though attitudes toward marijuana have changed in recent years, New Hampshire law still treats distribution or intent to distribute as a felony offense in most cases.
Possible consequences may include:
- A felony conviction on your record
- Significant fines
- Probation or prison time
- Impact on employment, housing, and education
- Loss of your driver’s license
If you’ve been charged, it’s not just about what happened—it’s about what comes next. Our firm is here to guide you through the legal process and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
How Our Firm Helps
Our approach to criminal defense in Rockingham County focuses on preparation, smart strategy, and communication. Every case is different, so we don’t use one-size-fits-all solutions. We’ll take the time to understand what happened and how we can best defend you.
When defending clients facing drug crime charges in New Hampshire, including marijuana-related offenses, we take a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Reviewing how the evidence was gathered
- Challenging unlawful searches or traffic stops
- Evaluating whether the “intent to distribute” claim is supported
- Identifying weaknesses in the state’s case
- Exploring alternatives to conviction or incarceration
- Preparing for trial, if needed
We’re based right here in the region and have handled numerous cases in Rockingham County courts. From Portsmouth to Derry, we understand how local prosecutors and judges handle these charges, and we use that insight to your advantage.
Why Local Experience Matters
Having a defense attorney who practices in Rockingham County gives you a practical edge. We know how to navigate the local court system, how prosecutors build drug cases, and how to negotiate with credibility. We’ll give you honest feedback about your situation and work with you to build a strong defense.
Being accused of a crime doesn’t make you guilty, and it doesn’t make you a bad person. Our job is to protect your rights, fight for your future, and help you through this process with clarity and confidence.
Areas We Serve in Rockingham County
Contact Us Now to Set Up a Strategy Session
Facing these kinds of drug crime charges is serious, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We’re here to provide trusted legal representation in Rockingham County and help you take the next step with purpose.
Contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson today to set up a strategy session. We’ll review your case and walk you through what to expect and what can be done to protect your record and your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana still illegal in New Hampshire?
Yes, marijuana possession for personal use has been decriminalized in small amounts, but it remains illegal to possess or distribute larger amounts. Possession with intent to distribute is still a felony under state law.
Can I be charged with intent to distribute even if I didn’t sell anything?
Yes. New Hampshire law allows prosecutors to infer intent based on factors like the amount of marijuana, packaging materials, scales, or messages related to distribution.
What should I do if I’m charged with marijuana possession with intent?
You should speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help protect your rights and assess whether the state’s evidence supports the charge.
Will I go to jail for marijuana possession with intent in Rockingham County?
It depends on several factors, including the amount involved, your criminal record, and how strong the prosecution’s case is. Jail is possible, but alternatives may be available, especially with a skilled defense attorney.
How do I find the best criminal defense attorney in Rockingham County for drug charges?
Look for an attorney who has local court experience, focuses on drug crime defense, and offers a strategic approach. At our firm, we combine local insight with aggressive representation tailored to your case.