Drug Crimes Lawyer in New York

Possession, distribution, and manufacturing controlled substances illegally are all considered to be drug crimes. While state drug charges usually result in a short-term sentence or probation, violation of federal drug laws will result in more severe penalties. 

Possession

Possession is the most common drug charge. Unlike DWI charges, someone can be charged with possession without there being proof that they were using the substance. For example, this may occur if illegal drugs are found in someone’s vehicle during a traffic stop. Having an illegal drug can result in a charge of “simple possession” or “possession with the objective to distribute.” Simple possession is defined as an individual with possession of a smaller scale of drugs. Having a greater amount of drugs can result in a charge of possession with the objective to distribute, and therefore result in more severe consequences.

Distribution

Drug distribution is considered to be a much more serious crime than possession because it involves the transportation of illegal substances. When someone is charged with the distribution of drugs, they have been accused of selling, delivering, or providing illegal substances to others. These charges may also be referred to as drug trafficking. Whether you intended to distribute drugs or not, you can still be charged with drug distribution, which is a felony and can result in a lengthy prison sentence. 

Manufacturing

Manufacturing is a drug crime, which includes any involvement in manufacturing or producing the illegal drug and substance. This charge applies to anyone involved in any step of the illicit drug production process. This can even include those who sell specialized equipment for the production process. Also, the delivery or supply of any illegal drug is viewed as a federal and state drug crime. Manufacturing is considered to be a felony and can result in prison time, fines, and probation. Manufacturing drugs near schools or playgrounds can result in even greater penalties. 

Paraphernalia 

According to federal law, drug paraphernalia is defined as “any equipment, product, or material of any kind which is primarily intended or designed for use in manufacturing, compounding, converting, concealing, producing, processing, preparing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body a controlled substance.” Drug paraphernalia charges are tricky because according to many courts, almost any item can be considered drug paraphernalia under certain circumstances. Under federal law, it is illegal to sell or offer to sell drug paraphernalia, mail drug paraphernalia, or import or export drug paraphernalia. Simple possession is not considered a federal crime, but some states consider it illegal to own such items.

In the states of New York and New Jersey, drug offenses can amount to numerous years behind bars if you are convicted, which is why being charged with a drug crime is such a serious situation. It is crucial that you trust an experienced criminal defense attorney with your case, so you receive the representation that you deserve. When you are arrested for a drug crime, police must follow proper procedures, and if your constitutional rights were violated, we will work towards the potential dismissal of your case. Talking to a professional criminal defense lawyer will provide you with defense and representation throughout every step of the legal process.

Learn more about drug crimes and what they entail, and explore the rest of our criminal defense blogs for insights into criminal defense in NY and NJ.

At The Gallucci Law Firm, Mario Gallucci and our associates are dedicated to fiercely advocating for clients who have been charged with a drug offense. You will gain representation from an attorney with extensive knowledge of the street drug scene and the legal system, along with years of experience defending against serious felony drug crimes, such as distribution, trafficking, and conspiracy. Working as a New York criminal defense lawyer allows lead defense attorney Mario Gallucci to consider all potential angles of defense, predict obstacles that may arise, and compose a powerful case for all clients. Contact The Gallucci Law Firm today to schedule a consultation so we can review and discuss your case.

The Gallucci Law Firm provides legal support for the following areas in New York and New Jersey: