New York Drug Possession Defense
A New York City desk appearance ticket charging drug possession can result in serious penalties upon conviction. If you were arrested and given a desk appearance ticket for the possession of a controlled substance including prescription medications, you should immediately seek legal representation. The police often scrutinize people going to bars/nightclubs, people attending concerts, drivers, and people in a drug prone location for this type of offense. Being arrested does not necessarily mean you'll be convicted but this could depend on what steps your lawyer takes. Going to court with an experienced criminal defense attorney is very important. Avoiding conviction is critical because any conviction, whether by guilty plea or because you get convicted after trial, is generally irreversible.
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 7th Degree, Penal Law 220.03
Under Penal Law (P.L.) 220.03, the knowing and unlawful possession of a controlled substance is a misdemeanor criminal offense.
Possession of a controlled substance can be charged for the following forms of possession:
- Drugs found on your person
- Drugs that you allegedly dropped
- Drugs that you intentionally had near you or just bought
- Drugs that you had control over, i.e. drugs in your car or locker
If you are given a desk appearance ticket for the criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, then you could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor and you could face these penalties:
Consequences of a misdemeanor controlled substance conviction:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Probation
- Jail and probation
- Drug treatment
- Fines
- A permanent criminal record
- Permanent employment, immigration and travel problems
- Driver's license suspension
Avoid conviction. The Law Office of Lance Fletcher can help.
Don't face the criminal justice system alone. If you've been ticketed for the unlawful possession of a controlled substance, you could be facing serious penalties; but with our help, you may be able to avoid conviction. The Law Office of Lance Fletcher PLLC handles all types of drug possession cases, including possession of cocaine, ecstasy, heroin, ketamine (Special K), methamphetamine, PCP, prescription medications, and all other types of controlled substances. Mr. Fletcher will analyze your case, explore possible defenses, and discuss possible ways to resolve the charges without a conviction.
Contact the firm today to learn more about the possible defenses for your desk appearance ticket.