Reducing the Consequences of a Drug Possession Arrest

Drug possession is a serious criminal charge. This is true even for a first offense and even for charges of marijuana possession. The police may try to convince you that the easiest solution is to confess to the crime and accept the citation and fine. They may try to convince you that drug possession charges are not serious by telling you that you probably won’t get any jail time.

If you are arrested or cited for drug possession, contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Do not talk to the police, do not admit guilt, and do not try to explain away the illegal drugs found in your house, in your car or on your person.

Understanding The Seriousness Of Drug Possession Issues

You owe it to yourself and your future to learn about the potential negative consequences of a drug possession conviction before deciding what to do after an arrest.

At The Law Office of Martin D. Kane, we have provided aggressive and intelligent criminal defense services in Queens County since 1971. We have watched carefully as law enforcement’s attitude toward drug crimes has changed over the decades, and we have adjusted our criminal defense strategies accordingly.

Some of the serious issues to consider if you have been arrested for drug possession are:

• Quantity: Did the cops find sufficient quantity to charge you with intent to sell or with drug distribution? Penalties for those crimes are far more serious than for simple possession of drugs.
• Consequences: Any criminal conviction for a drug crime can affect your ability to get federal financial assistance, including federal student aid and federal housing assistance. Your criminal record is a public document, viewable by your current or potential employer. Individuals charged with drug crimes, including the possession of marijuana, will have their driver’s license revoked for six months.
• Constitutional rights: One of the main responsibilities of a criminal defense attorney is to protect your constitutional rights. For example, if the police violated your Fourth Amendment right against illegal search and seizure, we may be able to get the evidence thrown out and the case dismissed.
• Diversion programs for drug crimes: Depending on the exact circumstances of your case, we may be able to get you admitted to a diversion program for drug offenders. If you successfully complete such a diversion program, which may include drug rehab and/or probation, then you may be able to avoid any jail time, may avoid a felony conviction, and may even get all charges dismissed.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Across From Queens County Criminal Court

To make an appointment for a private consultation, call (718) 793-5700 or contact our office by email. We offer free consultations to all potential new clients. If you are in detention and cannot come to our offices, we will arrange a consultation at the jail. Our offices are conveniently located directly across from the courthouse in Queens County. We accept all major credit cards.