Drug Possession Lawyer New York County (Manhattan) | SRIS,
Drug Possession Lawyer New York County (Manhattan) — What Are Your Defense Options?
Drug possession in New York County (Manhattan) is governed by New York Penal Law Article 220, with penalties ranging from a violation to a felony. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges.
New York Drug Possession Laws and Penalties
Drug possession charges in New York are defined under the New York Penal Law. The severity depends on the type and amount of the controlled substance, your criminal history, and whether the charge involves intent to sell. Possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree (NY PL § 220.03) is a Class A misdemeanor. More serious charges, like criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree (NY PL § 220.16), are Class B felonies. Understanding the specific statute you are charged under is the first step in building a defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s drug laws, refer to the New York Penal Law (official NY Senate site). For local court procedures and information, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Handling a Drug Possession Case in Manhattan
The procedural path for a drug possession case in Manhattan depends on whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanors are handled in New York County Criminal Court, while felonies proceed through the New York County Supreme Court, Criminal Term. A key local fact is that New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies, meaning many defendants are released on their own recognizance. also, an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a common outcome for eligible first-time offenses, where charges are dismissed after a period of good behavior.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea (not guilty, guilty, etc.) in Criminal Court (misdemeanor) or Supreme Court (felony).
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the District Attorney’s office for a possible plea deal, such as a reduction or an ACD.
- Trial or Resolution: If no acceptable plea is reached, your case will proceed to a bench or jury trial. If a plea is accepted, the case is resolved per the agreement.
Potential Penalties for Drug Possession in New York
In New York County (Manhattan), drug possession penalties vary widely, from a violation with no jail time to a felony with years in prison.
| Offense (NY Penal Law) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PL § 220.03 (7th Degree) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, possible probation |
| PL § 220.06 (5th Degree) | Class D Felony | 1 to 2.5 years* | Up to $5,000 | Likely suspension | Felony record, parole, loss of certain rights |
| PL § 220.16 (3rd Degree) | Class B Felony | 1 to 9 years* | Up to $30,000 | Likely suspension | Mandatory post-release supervision, severe collateral consequences |
*Sentences may be determined under New York’s sentencing guidelines. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand that a drug charge in Manhattan can upend your life, affecting employment, housing, and family. Our approach is to provide a strong, case-specific defense focused on protecting your future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case counts for New York County are integrated into our firm-wide results, SRIS, P.C. has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in drug possession cases across our practice jurisdictions. Our strategies often focus on challenging the legality of searches, the chain of custody of evidence, and negotiating for alternatives to incarceration such as treatment programs or dismissals.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Manhattan Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (716) 229-5880
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients at courts throughout the state, including the New York County Supreme Court at 60 Centre Street. We are accessible via major routes including the FDR Drive and all subway lines. We provide representation to individuals across Manhattan, including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, the Upper East and West Sides, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, the East Village, the Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood. For a drug possession lawyer near Manhattan courts, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession still a crime in New York?
No, for adults 21 and over. The Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) legalized possession of up to 3 ounces of cannabis and 24 grams of concentrated cannabis for adults. Possession of larger amounts may still be penalized.
What is an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD)?
It depends on the case and your history. An ACD is a common disposition for first-time, low-level offenses. The case is adjourned for 6 to 12 months. If you are not arrested during that period, the charges are automatically dismissed and sealed. It is not a conviction.
Can evidence from an illegal search be used against me?
No. If your attorney successfully argues that the police conducted a search without a warrant or probable cause, the evidence found (like drugs) can be suppressed and may not be used in court, often skilled to dismissal.
What is the difference between simple possession and possession with intent to sell?
The charges and penalties are vastly different. Intent to sell (or criminal sale) is a more serious felony, often based on factors like the quantity of drugs, packaging materials, scales, or large amounts of cash found. A Drug Possession Law Firm New York will fight allegations of intent.
Will a drug conviction affect my professional license?
It is very likely. Many professional licensing boards in New York (for law, medicine, nursing, real estate, etc.) require reporting criminal convictions and may suspend or revoke a license, especially for felony drug convictions.
For more information on related legal matters, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Kings County (Brooklyn) and Queens County. If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI cases in Manhattan.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.