Nassau County Drug Possession Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Drug possession in Nassau County is a serious offense under New York Penal Law Article 220, with penalties ranging from a violation to a felony. A drug possession lawyer Nassau County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
New York Drug Possession Laws
New York classifies drug possession based on the type and amount of the controlled substance. The primary statute is New York Penal Law Article 220. Possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree (PL 220.03) is a Class A misdemeanor. Possession in the fifth degree (PL 220.06) is a Class D felony. The specific charge and potential penalties depend on factors like the drug schedule and weight.
Last verified: April 2026 | Nassau County Criminal 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 Article 220. For court procedures and information in Nassau County, visit the Nassau County Courts website.
Local Defense Strategy in Nassau County
Nassau County courts handle drug possession cases with specific local procedures. Following New York’s 2020 bail reform, most misdemeanor drug possession charges do not require cash bail, and defendants are often released on recognizance. An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a common outcome for eligible first-time offenses, skilled to dismissal after a period of good behavior. A skilled drug possession defense lawyer Nassau County will examine the legality of the search and seizure, chain of custody of the evidence, and potential for diversion programs.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a lawyer immediately after arrest or receiving a desk appearance ticket (DAT).
- Arraignment: Your attorney will represent you at your first court appearance, argue for release, and enter a plea.
- Investigation & Motions: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence if the search was unlawful and review all discovery.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney will negotiate for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program, or prepare for trial if necessary.
- Resolution: Work toward a final disposition, such as an ACD, plea, or acquittal, and address any sealing eligibility.
Penalties for Drug Possession in Nassau County
In Nassau County, drug possession penalties vary from a violation with no jail time to a felony with years in prison, plus fines and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Possible suspension | Felony record, parole, loss of rights |
| PL 221.05 (Marijuana) | Violation | None | Up to $200 | None | Fine only (for amounts under 3 oz) |
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. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. We understand the local Nassau County court system and how to build an effective defense against controlled substance charges.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local case counts are not published, SRIS actively practices in Nassau County. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and acquittals. Our approach focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence and seeking alternative resolutions like ACDs where appropriate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Nassau County Drug Possession Lawyer Near Me
Our New York location serves clients throughout Nassau County. We are accessible via I-495 (LIE) and the Northern/Southern State Parkways. If you need a drug possession defense lawyer Nassau County near Mineola, Garden City, Hempstead, or elsewhere in the county, we can help.
Communities Served: Mineola, Garden City, Hempstead, Long Beach, Valley Stream, Hicksville, Levittown, Freeport, Rockville Centre, Glen Cove, Oyster Bay, Great Neck, Massapequa, Syosset.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
By appointment only.
Drug Possession Defense FAQs
Does New York have cash bail for drug possession?
No, not for most cases. NY’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanor and non-violent felony drug possession charges. Most defendants in Nassau County are released on their own recognizance or with non-monetary conditions.
What is an ACD for a drug charge in Nassau County?
An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a common disposition for first-time, low-level offenses. The case is adjourned for 6-12 months and automatically dismissed if you have no new arrests. An experienced controlled substance charge lawyer Nassau County can advocate for this outcome.
Can I get a drug possession record sealed in Nassau County?
It depends. New York offers conditional sealing under CPL § 160.59 for up to two qualifying convictions after a 10-year waiting period. Records from ACDs are automatically sealed. Eligibility depends on the specific offense and your criminal history.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor drug possession charge?
A Class A misdemeanor drug possession charge in Nassau County carries a maximum penalty of up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. However, with effective representation, the goal is to avoid jail time entirely.
Is marijuana possession still a crime in Nassau County?
No, not for adults 21+. The Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) legalized possession of up to 3 ounces of cannabis for adults. Possession of larger amounts or other controlled substances remains illegal.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New York Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters like family law and immigration in Nassau County. Learn more about Mr. Sris.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your drug possession charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. directly.