AS SEEN ON TV
When it comes to drug possession and marijuana offenses in New York City, the stakes could not be higher.
If you’re here, it’s likely you’re in legal trouble-or you’re worried you might be soon.
WE GET IT
At Spodek Law Group P.C., we understand how terrifying it is to face criminal charges for any controlled substance or marijuana offense. We know your future is on the line. We’ve been featured in major media outlets for defending high-profile clients-and we’re ready to fight for you, too.
NY DRUG OFFENSES: KEY PENALTIES & CODES
Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, New York’s drug laws are complicated.
Regardless of whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony, the impact on your life can be devastating.
Regardless of how hopeless it seems, we can help you.
If this is your situation
Stop reading. Start defending.
Let’s highlight some basic categories of drug crimes in New York:
- POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE
Under NY Penal Law Article 220, possession can be charged as anything from a misdemeanor (Class A) to a serious felony (Class A-I), depending on the type and amount of drug involved.
Example: Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree (NY Penal Law §220.03) is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail. - POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA
With New York’s evolving cannabis laws, many low-level personal marijuana possession offenses have been decriminalized or significantly reduced in penalty.
Still, large-scale possession or unlicensed distribution of marijuana is a major offense. Under NY Penal Law Article 222, possessing amounts above the legal personal limit can lead to significant fines or potential jail time. - INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE / SALE
Selling, or intending to sell, is a much bigger deal. Even giving marijuana away under certain circumstances can be charged as a “sale.”
For controlled substances like heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, or prescription drugs, distribution charges often carry mandatory prison sentences under NY Penal Law §220.39 and related statutes. - DRUG PARAPHERNALIA AND RELATED CHARGES
Possession of scales, baggies, or other items used to package drugs can lead to additional charges (NY Penal Law §220.50). Often, prosecutors pile on these charges to strengthen their case.
JUROR IN GHISLAINE MAXWELL MISTRIAL SCANDAL RETAINS ANNA SOROKIN’S LAWYER
We highlight major headlines like this because it showcases our experience taking on high-profile, complex legal battles. When the world is watching, you need attorneys who can handle the pressure-and win.
OUR STRATEGIES FOR DEFENDING DRUG CASES
EXPERIENCED
DEDICATED
We Fight to Get Evidence Thrown Out
Many drug cases depend on searches, seizures, and confessions. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, we’ll file motions to suppress that evidence. Without it, the entire case could crumble.
We Challenge the Weight/Quantity of Substances
Penalties often hinge on the exact amount of drugs. If lab results are inaccurate or if there’s a chain-of-custody issue, we’ll expose those flaws to reduce or dismiss charges.
We Investigate Entrapment or Police Misconduct
Were you coerced by an undercover officer? Did the police violate procedure? We make sure every step meets legal standards. If not, the charges may not stand.
We Leverage Treatment and Diversion Programs
New York courts sometimes allow alternative sentencing, such as treatment programs, for first-time or low-level offenders. Where appropriate, we push for these programs rather than jail time.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU’RE CONVICTED?
Penalties vary drastically based on the charge, your criminal record, and the type/amount of drugs:
- Jail or Prison Time
Class A felonies can mean life in prison. Even a misdemeanor can land you up to a year behind bars. - Heavy Fines
Fines can range from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars. - Probation
You might avoid jail but face years of supervision. Violating probation can trigger serious consequences. - Permanent Criminal Record
Even a lesser conviction can haunt you for life-affecting jobs, housing, immigration status, and more.
OUR TEAM STANDS BY YOU
NYC CRIMINAL LAWYERS
AVAILABLE 24/7
The legal system is harsh on drug offenses, even with recent marijuana reforms. But you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our criminal defense lawyers, led by Todd Spodek-a second-generation attorney who’s handled thousands of criminal cases-will craft a tailored defense for your situation.
OUR CLIENTS TRUST US
We’ve won major cases that other lawyers said were unwinnable. We understand the latest changes in New York’s marijuana laws. We also know how prosecutors build-and sometimes overreach-drug charges. We can help you, whether it’s a local or federal drug offense.
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EXPERIENCED
DEDICATED