Misdemeanor Drug Charges Defense

Facing Misdemeanor Drug Possession Charges in New York State?

New York takes an aggressive stance on drug possession, the least serious being a misdemeanor drug charges. But, do not let a misdemeanor charge fool you into thinking it is not a serious matter.

You may not serve as much time in jail, but a misdemeanor drug conviction can be as destructive as a felony drug conviction. Every aspect of your life will likely be impacted, including work, family life, family court proceedings, college loans, grants, scholarships, federal housing or food assistance, access to government training programs, or housing for seniors – even if the conviction was years ago. Keep in mind, a drug conviction is not always required for your life to be impacted.

Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree

NY Penal Law 220.03 
A person is guilty of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree when he knowingly and unlawfully possesses a controlled substance. Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree is a Class A Misdemeanor.

Do Not Delay – Secure a Criminal Defense Attorney

Conviction of a Class A Misdemeanor for criminal possession of a controlled substance could result in up to 1 year in jail. The criminal defense attorneys at E. Stewart Jones Hacker Murphy are ready and able to defend your misdemeanor drug cases.

It should be noted that if the possession charge is accompanied by another misdemeanor or felony charge, or preceded by previous charges or convictions, time in jail or prison can increase significantly. Our attorneys will work hard to present a strong defense to minimize time in jail, fines and or penalties.

Factors Influencing Misdemeanor Drug Convictions in NY

There are many tactics used by law enforcement to justify a drug possession charge, the process from the moment an arrest or “DAT” (Desk Appearance Ticket) is issued will be critical to the outcome of your case.

While law enforcement sends the substance recovered from you to the lab to determine what it is, and whether the amount you had on your person is enough to charge you with a felony drug charge, you should be working actively with your criminal defense attorney before the first appearance.

Fighting Against a Criminal Record

Our attorneys are dedicated in using every opportunity available to prevent a criminal record for our clients. Every case is different, and the outcome of one case does not imply success for others. However, with the legal team of E. Stewart Jones Hacker Murphy on your side, you know you are in good hands.

We have been in the criminal defense business since 1898, and we have seen just about everything. Our lawyers are passionate about winning and genuinely care about the people they represent.