Criminal Defense Lawyers

NYC Drug Penalties Lawyers

New York has some of the toughest drug laws in the country. Many drug charges in the state are prosecuted as felonies, meaning the convicted individual could face a minimum one-year prison sentence on top of additional penalties. Huge fines and a tarnished name are also risks of a drug conviction. There is little wonder why a person facing a drug charge anywhere in the state fears the outcome of their court appearance. Although you cannot take back what’s already been done, there are ways to fight the drug charge and reduce the worries that the charge will turn life as you know it upside down when it is time to appear in court before a judge.

Types of Drug Crimes in NY

In New York, a number of different types of drug crime charges may be bestowed upon a person. Each type of crime carries its own set of penalties and consequences, with minimum mandatory sentences required in certain criminal drug cases. Types of drug crimes in New York include:

– Drug Possession: Although marijuana is now decriminalized in the state, possessing more than two ounces of the drug is still a criminal offense. Possession in any amount of other types of drugs is a crime in the state. Depending on the amount of drugs found in your possession, it may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony crime.
– Sales of a Controlled Substance: Selling a controlled substance is a felonious crime in New York, regardless of the type of drug or the amount. However, sentences are stiffer for conviction of stronger controlled substances such as heroin than for a drug such as marijuana.
– Drug Trafficking: Producing, distributing, or selling controlled substances across state/country boundaries is one of the worst types of drug crimes an individual may face in the state of New York.

This is not a complete list of the potential types of drug crimes an individual may face in New York but does look at the most common.

What Affects Drug Penalty Consequences?

The penalty for the crime and the type of crime you are charged with vary. Many circumstances influence the sentencing guidelines the courts follow for the prosecution of a drug crime. This includes:

– Amount of substance
– Were you using the drug, selling the drug, or manufacturing the drug?
– Were you in possession of a firearm at the time the drug crime occurred?
– What type of criminal history do you have? Have you been convicted of a prior drug crime? – Does your criminal record include felonies or violent felonies?

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Drug Crime Penalties in New York

Possession of less than two ounces of marijuana is decriminalized in New York, like many other states. This means a person found in possession of 28 grams of marijuana or less is guilty of unlawful possession. These individuals are not arrested but receive a citation and fine instead. The fine for up to one ounce of marijuana is $50 and the fee for possession of one-two ounces is $100.

The state isn’t so lenient when it comes to other types of drugs. The seriousness of drug possession is intense when a person is found in possession of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine or similar drugs. These drugs pose a greater risk of addiction, overdose, and death which stiffens the penalties of a conviction if you are found in possession, selling or otherwise dealing with illegal narcotics.

Penalties for drug crimes in New York range from fines, probation, or house arrest to time in jail or prison. Stiffer penalties are enabled for people who sell and traffick drugs into the state. An experienced drug crimes attorney may be able to work out a plea agreement for a diversion program for his client, depending on the severity and circumstances of the charge.

Talk to an Attorney About Your Drug Charges

Facing drug crime charges in New York is scary, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the matter. Lawyers offer free consultations to discuss the specific details of your case and help decide the next best steps to take in the case. Take advantage of the consultation and learn why it’s so important that an attorney is by your side every step of the way. Appearing in court to answer a drug charge of any type is a bad idea in the state of New York.