New York
Drug Crime Lawyer

A drug conviction in New York can have far-reaching implications on both your personal and professional lives. In addition to the legal ramifications, such as fines and imprisonment, drug convictions can lead to a permanent criminal record and other collateral consequences, such as disqualification from certain government benefits and programs.

Criminal Records and Their Implications

A criminal record can have a lasting impact on your life, hindering your ability to obtain:

• Employment
• Professional licensing
• Housing
• Educational opportunities

It’s important to recognize the far-reaching implications of a criminal record and work closely with an experienced drug crime attorney to minimize these consequences. By building a strong defense and exploring alternative sentencing options, you may be able to avoid a permanent criminal record and the negative impacts it can have on your life.

Collateral Consequences of Drug Convictions

In addition to a criminal record, drug convictions in New York may result in collateral consequences. These consequences can include loss of driving privileges, ineligibility for government benefits, and restrictions on firearm ownership.

The impact of these collateral consequences can be significant and far-reaching, affecting various aspects of your life. This further underscores the importance of having an experienced drug crime lawyer on your side who can help you navigate the legal system and potentially minimize these consequences through effective defense strategies and negotiation of plea deals and sentencing options.

A strong defense is crucial for anyone facing drug-related charges in New York. Legal defenses for drug crimes may include challenging the legality of searches and seizures, as well as asserting medical necessity or prescription drug defenses.

Challenging the Legality of Searches and Seizures

A strong defense strategy may involve challenging the legality of the search that led to the discovery of drugs. By questioning the legality of the search, your attorney may be able to suppress the evidence in court, potentially weakening the prosecution’s case against you. Common challenges to the legality of searches and seizures include the absence of probable cause, lack of a valid search warrant, or an unlawful search. An experienced drug crime lawyer can help you navigate these challenges and build a strong defense that could potentially lead to a reduction of charges.

Medical Necessity and Prescription Drug Defenses

Medical necessity and prescription drugs defenses can be used to argue that the possession or use of a controlled substance was for legitimate medical purposes. These defenses may involve demonstrating that the defendant had a valid prescription for the drug in question or that the drug was required to treat a medical condition involving controlled substances.

It’s important to remember that the success of these defenses is contingent upon the specific facts of the case. In some scenarios, the defense may be successful in obtaining the charges dismissed or reduced, while in other scenarios, the defense may be unsuccessful, and the defendant may still be subject to the original criminal charges.

Alternative Sentencing Options for Drug Offenders in New York

For some drug offenders, alternative sentencing options within the criminal justice system may provide a more rehabilitative and treatment-focused approach to addressing their drug-related issues. In New York, these alternative sentencing options include the Drug Court Program and the Shock Incarceration Program.

New York Drug Court Program

The New York Drug Court Program is a diversionary sentencing option for non-violent addicted offenders that requires strict adherence and fulfillment of treatment. Participation in the program is outlined in a contract between the defendant’s legal representative, the district attorney, the treatment coordinator, and the court.
Studies have demonstrated that the Drug Court Program can lower recidivism rates and substance use among participants. By providing an alternative to traditional incarceration, the program aims to address the root causes of drug addiction and promote long-term recovery and reintegration into society.

Shock Incarceration Program

The Shock Incarceration Program is an intensive boot camp-style alternative for eligible drug felons, with successful completion potentially resulting in early release. In order to be eligible for the program, an offender must be a first-time felony offender, have no prior felony convictions, and be sentenced to a minimum of one year in prison.

The program is a six-month commitment that is modeled after military basic training and includes physical training, educational classes, and counseling. Successful completion of the Shock Incarceration Program can yield early release from prison, as well as diminished sentences for those who are not entitled to early release.

Contact Our Experienced Drug Crimes Lawyers for a Free Consultation

Don’t face theft charges in New York City alone. Contact The Law Office of Gina M. Wicik for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options for defense. With our team of experienced attorneys, we can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, defend your rights, and strive for the best possible outcome in your case.

Call The Law Office of Gina M. Wicik at (516)253-4278 to receive a free consultation and take the first step towards protecting your future.