In cases involving fourth-degree cannabis possession, how is the driver typically charged?

• A. Warrant
• B. Complaint-Summons
• C. Arrest with detention
• D. Citation

Answer: (B)

The method being tested is how New Jersey typically initiates charges for non-violent, lower-level drug offenses. For fourth-degree cannabis possession, the standard approach is to file a complaint-summons, which starts a criminal case and requires the person to appear in court. This keeps the driver free at the scene and brings them into court to answer the charge, rather than detaining them or escalating to a warrant. An arrest with detention would involve taking the driver into custody and holding them, which isn’t the usual path for a case like this. A warrant would be issued only if there were serious reasons to arrest someone, such as flight risk or danger. A simple citation is generally reserved for minor offenses or traffic violations that don’t require a court appearance.