Controlled Substance Lawyer in Ontario County, NY — What Are Your Defense Options?
A controlled substance charge in Ontario County is a serious matter under New York Penal Law Article 220, carrying penalties from fines to years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for possession, sale, and trafficking allegations in Ontario County Criminal Court. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results.
New York Controlled Substance Laws
New York classifies illegal drugs and certain medications as “controlled substances” under the Penal Law. Charges range from simple possession (Penal Law § 220.03) to criminal sale (Penal Law § 220.39). The severity depends on the drug type, amount, and alleged intent. For example, possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree is a Class A misdemeanor, while criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree is a Class B felony. The specific statute applied is critical to your defense strategy.
Last verified: April 2026 | Ontario County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of New York’s drug laws, refer to the official New York Penal Law (official NY Senate site). For local court procedures and forms, visit the Ontario County Courts website.
Local Court Process for Drug Charges in Ontario County
Most controlled substance cases in Ontario County begin with an arrest or a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT). Misdemeanor charges are handled in Ontario County Criminal Court, while felonies proceed to the Ontario County Supreme Court Criminal Term. New York’s bail reform laws often mean release without cash bail for non-violent drug offenses, but the case proceeds aggressively. An experienced controlled substance lawyer Ontario County understands that prosecutors here may offer programs like Judicial Diversion or an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for eligible first-time offenders.
- Initial Appearance: You will be arraigned in Ontario County Criminal Court, informed of the charges, and asked to enter a plea.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, lab analyses, and witness statements to challenge the legality of the search, seizure, or arrest.
- Negotiation & Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, diversion program, or favorable plea.
- Trial or Resolution: If a fair plea cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a bench or jury trial where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for Controlled Substance Offenses
In Ontario County, controlled substance penalties vary widely based on the specific charge, from up to 1 year in jail for a misdemeanor to 25 years to life for the most severe felonies.
| Offense (NY Penal Law) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PL § 220.03 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Possible driver’s license suspension | Criminal record, possible immigration consequences |
| PL § 220.06 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 5th | Class D Felony | 2-7 years | Up to $5,000 | Driver’s license suspension mandatory | Felony record, loss of professional licenses, federal aid ineligibility |
| PL § 220.39 – Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance 3rd | Class B Felony | 5-25 years | Up to $30,000 | Mandatory suspension | Severe felony record, lengthy parole, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand that a drug charge can upend your life, affecting your job, family, and future. We approach each case with a focus on protecting your rights, scrutinizing the evidence against you, and pursuing every available legal avenue to seek a dismissal, reduction, or alternative resolution. Mr. Sris personally oversees complex criminal defense strategies, ensuring a high level of attention to detail.
Documented Case Results
While specific Ontario County results are confidential, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements in drug-related cases. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Controlled Substance Defense in Ontario County
Our New York location serves clients throughout Ontario County and the Finger Lakes region, including Canandaigua, Geneva, and Victor. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and in-person meetings by appointment.
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
By appointment only.
Need an affordable controlled substance lawyer Ontario County? Call us anytime to discuss your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m arrested for a drug crime in Ontario County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a controlled substance lawyer near me Ontario County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Can I get bail on a drug charge in New York?
It depends. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most non-violent felonies and misdemeanors, including many drug possession charges. However, bail may still be set for certain sale or trafficking allegations. The court will decide based on the specific charge and your history.
What is an ACD for a drug charge?
An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a common outcome for first-time, low-level offenses. The case is adjourned for 6-12 months. If you stay out of trouble, the charges are dismissed and sealed. An experienced attorney can advocate for this resolution.
Will a drug conviction affect my driver’s license?
Yes. New York State mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension for most drug convictions, even if no vehicle was involved. Your attorney can petition the court for a conditional license or work to avoid a conviction altogether.
What’s the difference between possession and sale?
Possession means having a controlled substance on your person or under your control. Sale involves intent to distribute, which can be alleged based on quantity, packaging, or other circumstances. The penalties for sale are significantly more severe.
Related Legal Services in Ontario County
If you are facing other charges, we also provide representation for general criminal defense in Ontario County, DUI/DWI, and immigration matters. For a full overview of our criminal practice, visit our New York criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your controlled substance charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.