(Last Updated On: October 17, 2023)Last Updated on: 17th October 2023, 10:57 pm
Brooklyn Methamphetamine Possession & Trafficking Lawyers
Dealing with a methamphetamine charge in Brooklyn can be scary. Meth is a serious drug with major legal consequences if your caught with it. But don’t panic – a good lawyer can help. I’m going to walk you through the meth laws here, what happens if your arrested, possible defenses, and how a Brooklyn meth lawyer can help you.
Meth Laws in Brooklyn
There’s a few laws in New York that specifically target meth:
- Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree – when you have a small amount for personal use. This is a misdemeanor.
- Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree – when you have a larger amount, over 500 milligrams. This is a felony.
- Criminal sale of a controlled substance in the fifth degree – when you sell any amount of meth. Also a felony.
- Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the first degree – for possessing huge amounts, 4 ounces or more. This is the most serious meth offense in NY.
So in a nutshell – small personal amounts are a misdemeanor, but anything over half a gram or any sales bumps you up to a felony. And large quantities can mean major prison time.
What Happens If Your Arrested for Meth in Brooklyn?
Ok, so you got caught with some meth. Here’s what goes down next:
- You get arrested and taken to the police station for booking.
- The police seize any meth and other evidence like scales or baggies.
- You’ll have a chance to make a phone call – this is when you should be calling a lawyer!
- In most cases you’ll be released, but you’ll have to show up for arraignment in criminal court within 24 hours.
- At your arraignment, you’ll be formally charged and can enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. The judge also considers bail.
- After that, there may be more court dates to negotiate a plea deal or take your case to trial.
Having an experienced meth lawyer with you right away is crucial. They can often get charges reduced or even dismissed before your case goes too far. Don’t wait!
Possible Defenses in Brooklyn Meth Cases
There’s a few common defenses that could get your meth charges dropped or reduced:
- Illegal search – If the police didn’t have probable cause or a warrant to search you, the evidence may get thrown out.
- Illegal stop – Similarly, if the police stopped you without reasonable suspicion, the case could get dismissed.
- Misidentified substance – The cops may have thought it was meth when it was really something else.
- No knowledge – You didn’t know the meth was there if someone else put it in your bag etc.
- Entrapment – An undercover cop pressured you into committing a crime you wouldn’t normally do.
A good lawyer will analyze the details of your case to craft the best defense strategy.
How a Brooklyn Meth Lawyer Can Help
Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side is crucial for meth charges. Here’s some of what they can do:
- Advise you on the law and possible penalties so you know what your facing.
- Negotiate with the DA for reduced charges or dismissal of the case.
- Identify any police mistakes or constitutional violations.
- Develop defense strategies based on the specifics of your case.
- Represent you in court, argue motions, cross-examine witnesses.
- Work out a favorable plea deal if needed.
- Take your case to trial for an acquittal if possible.
Having a lawyer who regularly handles Brooklyn meth cases is important – you want someone familiar with the courts and prosecutors here. Look for a Brooklyn meth lawyer with a proven track record of good results.
And make sure you feel comfortable with them – you’ll be working closely together, so it’s important to have a lawyer you trust and can be open with.
Finding the Right Brooklyn Meth Lawyer for You
If your facing meth charges, don’t go it alone – get a lawyer on your side immediately. Here’s some tips for finding the right one:
- Search for lawyers with specific experience handling meth and drug cases in Brooklyn.
- Read reviews and see what past clients say about them.
- Find someone who will give you a free consultation to discuss your case.
- Ask about their experience, track record with meth cases, and overall legal philosophy.
- Make sure they have time to dedicate to your case, not overburdened.
- Go with someone you feel comfortable with and can be honest with.
- Avoid lawyers who overpromise – no one can guarantee you’ll win.
- Be wary of lawyers pushing for a quick plea deal before assessing your case.
- Consider hiring a former Brooklyn prosecutor – they have inside experience.
Don’t panic if your facing meth charges – a good Brooklyn lawyer can help get your charges reduced or dismissed. Do your research to find the right one. The stakes are high, but with an experienced lawyer on your side, you have a fighting chance.
References:
https://codes.findlaw.com/ny/penal-law/pen-sect-220-03.html
https://codes.findlaw.com/ny/penal-law/pen-sect-220-06.html
https://codes.findlaw.com/ny/penal-law/pen-sect-220-31.html
https://codes.findlaw.com/ny/penal-law/pen-sect-220-21.html
https://www.nycourts.gov/judges/cji/2-Search_and_Seizure/2.03_Probable_Cause.pdf
https://civilrights.uslegal.com/reasonable-suspicion/
https://www.nycourts.gov/judges/cji/1-General/Defenses/CJI2d.Entrapment.pdf