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Our Attorneys Defend Drug Possession, Manufacture And Trafficking Charges

If you have been caught with illegal drugs in New York City, you are not alone. The New York City police department makes about 45,000 arrests per year for drug crimes ranging from misdemeanor marijuana possession to felony distribution of opioids.

Having any kind of drug arrest, much less a conviction, on your record can have serious repercussions such as jail time, fines, civil service disciplinary action and loss of future job opportunities.

At JOEY JACKSON LAW, PLLC., we understand how overwhelming it can feel to be caught up in the massive criminal justice system of New York City. With over 25 years of experience in New York City criminal defense law, attorney Joey Jackson knows how to work within the system to get results.

Having successfully handled many drug cases, our firm is well-versed in the latest laws. You can rely on us to prepare an aggressive defense for you and to be a powerful advocate for your best interests. Our team is dedicated to delivering the best possible outcome for every case, by either negotiating with the district attorney to reduce or dismiss charges or by taking your case to trial.

New York Laws On Drug Possession, Manufacture, Sale And Trafficking

See our page on drug possession for more details on the term “controlled substance” and on possession crimes.

JOEY JACKSON LAW, PLLC., is prepared to defend you on any criminal charges related to marijuana, heroin or other controlled substances, as defined in New York penal law sections 220–221, including:

  • Criminal possession of marijuana
  • Criminal possession of a controlled substance
  • Criminal sale of marijuana. The severity of this charge ranges from a class B misdemeanor for sale of one cigarette (2g or less) to a class C felony for sale of more than 16 ounces.
  • Criminal sale of a controlled substance. This offense ranges from a class D felony to a class A-1 felony, depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved.
  • Operating as a major trafficker. This crime, a class A-1 felony, occurs when an individual sells or possesses with intent to sell at least $75,000 worth of narcotics over a period of six months or less, or when a person directs an organization that sells $75,000 or more worth of any controlled substance(s) over a period of 12 months or less.

Drug offenses affecting or involving children include:

  • Criminal sale near a school. This class B felony occurs when certain drug sales take place on or within 1,000 feet of school grounds, on a school bus or on the grounds of a child day care facility.
  • Use of a child to commit a controlled substance offense. Using a child under 16 years old to conceal, carry, sell or support the sale of illegal drugs is a class E felony.
  • Criminal sale to a child. The sale of any controlled substance by someone over 21 years old to a child under 17 years old is a class B felony.

Other drug offenses include possession, use or sale of hypodermic needles; criminal use of drug paraphernalia, such as pipes or miniature spoons; offenses related to the production of methamphetamines; and criminal sale of prescriptions by a physician or pharmacist.

New York City law enforcement with respect to drugs has changed significantly in the past few years due to the opioid overdose epidemic. Their primary focus today is on locking up dealers and violent offenders. Nonviolent drug offenders may qualify for a treatment program rather than going to jail. An experienced drug treatment court attorney at JOEY JACKSON LAW, PLLC., can advise you on such options.

Talented And Highly Respected New York City Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with a drug crime, contact the attorneys of JOEY JACKSON LAW, PLLC., in our Manhattan office at 833-563-9522. We want to help you avoid a conviction that will have serious long-term effects on your life.