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Get Defense from Our Proven New York Attorney

New York is known for having some of the strictest drug laws in America. Most controlled drug offenses are felonies. An accusation of criminal drug possession and other controlled substances can have a huge impact on someone’s life. It can make it difficult for a person to get a job, a place to live, or apply for school programs. These offenses can also result in huge fines, and often lengthy prison sentences.

 

At Lebedin Kofman LLP, criminal defense attorney Russ Kofman and his team of New York drug crimes attorneys understand the difficult terrain of the justice system. Criminal charges often leave a devastating effect not only on the defendant’s life but also on their families. This is why having the legal advice of an experienced defense attorney is very important.

 

Call Lebedin Kofman LLP at (646) 663-4430 to discuss your drug charges with our experienced drug crimes lawyers.

Drug Possession in New York

Drug charges in New York can arise from a number of different scenarios. Drug possession, sale, and conspiracies involving drugs and other narcotics-related crimes are all dealt with in federal and New York courts. There are many drug crimes that carry maximum life sentences. Many cases have mandatory prison sentences, even for those who have only been charged with small quantities of drugs.

 

One development in the drug laws in New York is that both state and federal law enforcement focuses on the drug possession and sale of pills like Vicodin, OxyContin, Codeine, and performance-enhancing drugs such as steroids and human growth hormones.

 

If you are facing criminal charges for drug possession, it is important to have the skilled legal assistance of an experienced drug crimes lawyer. An experienced defense attorney will be able to determine if there are legal grounds to challenge the search made by the police. A skilled New York City defense attorney will scrutinize the police conduct for any mistakes and try to suppress any evidence that may lead to your conviction.

Different Types of Drug Crimes in New York

The New York Penal Code generally lists drug offenses under two headings: marijuana offenses or controlled substances offenses. The majority of controlled substance offenses are related to the possession, sale, and manufacturing of controlled substances.

 

Prosecutors can ask for the punishment of anyone who is convicted of possessing a controlled drug under the New York Penal Code section 220. This includes heroin, cocaine, MDMA, and prescription drugs.

 

You can face charges for a wide range of drug offenses. The following are some examples of criminal drug charges in the state of New York:

  • Drug possession
  • Selling controlled substances
  • Drug Trafficking
  • Narcotics charges
  • Marijuana charges


The possession of certain drugs can be considered a serious threat to society and has been made a felony crime by the legislatures. These drugs include heroin, ecstasy, and cocaine.

 

If you are facing drug charges, it is important to seek the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney. An experienced defense attorney may be able to help you understand your rights and help you protect your freedom. The top-rated criminal defense lawyers at Lebedin Kofman LLP have years of experience when it comes to drug-related charges.

Type of Drug CrimeDescriptionPenalty
Drug PossessionFound with illegal drugsFines, probation, or incarceration
Selling Controlled SubstancesDistribution or sale of illegal drugsSubstantial fines, lengthy prison sentences
Drug TraffickingIllegal transportation or sale across bordersLengthy prison sentences, significant fines
Narcotics ChargesOffenses related to narcoticsVaries, includes fines and imprisonment
Marijuana ChargesOffenses related to marijuanaFines, probation, or incarceration

Our Process

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The attorney will call you to discuss your case, defenses, and possible outcomes.

2

You will be told the fee right away, as well as, potentially available payment plans and financing options.

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You will have the option of coming into our office to discuss further or we email you a retainer agreement and we can handle everything right from your phone without the need to go anywhere.

Penalties for Drug Possession Charges

New York classifies crimes involving drugs based on the severity of each criminal offense, which takes into consideration, the type and class of controlled substance a person is in possession of, the intent of that person, and whether there was a sale of the controlled substance or drug, and the number of prior violations that person may have.

 

The penalties for criminal offenses involving drugs depend on their classification. If you are convicted of class A-I or A-II felonies, your maximum sentence could be up to life imprisonment. Manufacturing, selling, and distribution of illegal drugs are the most severe offenses. Other penalties include the following for drug possession convictions:

 

  • Violation: Unlawful possession of marijuana is the only drug possession charge that is considered a violation. For a first offense, the fine can be up to $100. The second offense within 3 years can be fined $200. And a third offense can result in $250 in fines or 15 days imprisonment.
  • Class B Misdemeanor: Up to three months imprisonment and up to a $500 fine. Criminal possession of marijuana in the fifth degree falls under this category.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 1-year imprisonment and up to $1,000 fine. Both criminal possession of marijuana in the fourth degree and criminal possession of controlled substances in the seventh degree are class A misdemeanors.
  • Class E felony: 4 years imprisonment and up to $5,000 fine. Criminal possession of marijuana in the 3rd degree falls under this category.
  • Class D felony: 7 years imprisonment and up to $5,000 fine. Both criminal possession of marijuana in the 2nd degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 5th degree of controlled substances are class D felonies.
  • Class C felony: 15 years imprisonment and up to $15,000 fine. Both criminal possession of controlled substances 4th degrees and criminal possession of marijuana in the 1st degree are class C felonies.
  • Class B felony: 25 years imprisonment and up to $30,000 fine. Criminal possession of controlled substances in the 3rd degree falls under this category.
  • Class A-II felony: Life in prison with a maximum fine of up to $50,000. Criminal possession of controlled substances in the 2nd degree falls under this category.
  • Class A-I felony: Life in prison with a maximum fine of up to $100,000. Criminal possession of controlled substances in the 1st degree falls under this category.

 

Attorney Russ Kofman and his team of drug charges defense attorneys at Lebedin Kofman LLP understand how overwhelming it can be to face criminal offenses involving drugs. The impact of these charges on a defendant’s life can be immense. Don’t leave it up to chance. Call us today to schedule a free consultation regarding your drug charges.

The Drug Treatment Court in New York is a program that offers an alternative to traditional sentencing. The Drug Treatment Court is available to anyone who has been arrested for drug criminal offenses involving drugs that are a B, C, D, or E felony. The judge will have several options including reducing criminal charges against the defendant if they are able to complete the Drug Treatment Court program successfully.

The defendant must agree to participate in a court-supervised program for substance abuse rehabilitation. Drug Court Intervention Programs are only open to non-violent offenders. However, it is usually difficult to get into Drug Court. To graduate from the Drug Court program, strict compliance must be met. Once in, the defendant will be monitored by both a judge and probation officer. This is an extremely difficult program, but those who complete it successfully are proud of what they have accomplished.

To be qualified for Drug Treatment Court programs, a criminal defense lawyer must show that the defendant is eligible and will be able to benefit from participation in drug court. Oftentimes, there will be a health professional evaluation. It will still be up to the judge to approve participation even if a defense attorney negotiates a chance for the client.

The rules for drug court participation are set out in a contract that is signed by the defendant, the criminal defense attorney, and district attorneys, as well as the court. In some cases, successful completion may result in the dismissal of the criminal charges involving drugs and a fresh start for the defendant. Refusing to follow the guidelines, which include periodic drug testing, could result in the defendant being removed from the program.

Speak to an experienced drug crimes defense attorney at Lebedin Kofman today regarding your criminal charges involving drugs.

A conviction for drug charges can result in serious consequences. An experienced defense attorney with knowledge of federal and state drug cases will fight for your release on bail, bond, or personal recognizance. They can also fight to suppress evidence and get the charges against you dropped. Each case is unique, but you can challenge any criminal charges involving drugs with a variety of defenses.

They could include:

  • The substance was not an illegal drug. You may be charged with drug possession if you possess a substance that looks like an illegal drug, but it isn’t. For example, legal prescription pills may resemble illegal pills. The chemical laboratory test will show if the drug you have been found with is banned.
  • You were in legal possession of the drug. You can legally possess certain drugs if your prescription is valid. A police officer might assume you are illegally possessing Vicodin and OxyContin, for example. You are the legal owner of the drug if you possess a prescription.
  • Insufficient quantity. You may face a lower possession charge depending on how much of the drug you can prove you have.
  • The absence of the “knowing” element. You must “knowingly” have the drug in order to be charged with drug offenses. However, if you prove otherwise, it could help you defend against the drug crimes charge.
  • Witness to or victim of a drug overdose or alcoholism. You cannot be arrested for drug possession if you are seeking healthcare to treat a medical condition such as a drug overdose.
  • Unlawful search and seizure. Fourth Amendment searches and seizures are common in drug possession cases. Illegal search and seizure are prohibited by the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The police may seize drugs if they can be seen and used them in drug possession cases. However, drugs cannot be taken unless lawful searches are conducted.

 

Certain drugs, like methamphetamines, ecstasy, and cocaine, are considered illegal. Some drugs are considered illegal if they’re not prescribed for the specific medical condition they address. Examples include amphetamines that are used to treat Attention Disorder (ADD), opioid painkillers, and antidepressants like Xanax.

At Lebedin Kofman LLP, criminal defense attorney Russ Kofman and his team of defense lawyers are skilled at handling drug charges. We understand the impact of a conviction for criminal drug charges on a person’s life. We will fight for your rights and your freedom.

The Importance of a Drug Crime Attorney

Drug possession offenses can lead to severe penalties, which could include years behind bars without contact with family or friends. There are many options to fight drug crime charges. If you have been arrested for drug crimes, it’s important that you immediately consult an experienced attorney to defend your rights.

 

An experienced attorney may question the motivations of law enforcement to search the defendant when constructing a New York drug possession defense. The NYC defense attorney will ask about the methods used by the police to search the defendant, as well as whether or not the statements were taken legally.

 

A knowledgeable defense attorney can also help you build a strong defense strategy against drug possession charges in New York. A skilled New York attorney must also be able to learn the relevant cases which may set a precedent and the decisions by judges or the Court of Appeals throughout the State of New York. This information can help your attorney fight for you.

 

At Lebedin Kofman LLP, criminal defense attorney Russ Kofman and his team of drug crimes lawyers have dedicated their experience and skills to helping people fight for their rights. To schedule a free consultation with a defense lawyer, contact us today.

 

Drug possession offenses can lead to severe penalties, which could include years behind bars without contact with family or friends. There are many options to fight drug crime charges. If you have been arrested for drug crimes, it’s important that you immediately consult an experienced attorney to defend your rights.

 

An experienced attorney may question the motivations of law enforcement to search the defendant when constructing a New York drug possession defense. The NYC defense attorney will ask about the methods used by the police to search the defendant, as well as whether or not the statements were taken legally.

 

A knowledgeable defense attorney can also help you build a strong defense strategy against drug possession charges in New York. A skilled New York attorney must also be able to learn the relevant cases which may set a precedent and the decisions by judges or the Court of Appeals throughout the State of New York. This information can help your attorney fight for you.

 

At Lebedin Kofman LLP, criminal defense attorney Russ Kofman and his team of drug crimes lawyers have dedicated their experience and skills to helping people fight for their rights. To schedule a free consultation with a defense lawyer, contact us today.

Seeking the help of an experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer at Lebedin Kofman LLP

Drug crimes can have very different legal consequences. A lawyer can help you build a solid defense, and protect your freedom and your rights. As experienced criminal lawyers, our team at Lebedin Kofman LLP will make sure that your criminal case is thoroughly investigated. We will pursue justice for you if there was a violation of your rights.

 

At Lebedin Kofman LLP, criminal defense lawyer Russ Kofman and our team of New York drug crime lawyers are skilled and can handle any drug charges, no matter if you’re a first offender or a repeat offender. Our New York attorneys do not classify cases according to difficulty or ease. We treat every case individually and spend a lot of time and effort preparing for your defense.

Testimonials

Client Reviews

Joan Paterson
Joan Paterson
21 days ago
I hired Russ to represent me in a domestic violence/criminal case in Manhattan. From the beginning to end of the case, he was professional, supportive and dependable. He alleviated all of my concerns with the possible outcome of my case by assuring me the case would be dismissed. He was absolutely right and successfully got my case dismissed. He was always there, any time of the day or night to answer any questions or concerns. I highly recommend obtaining him as your attorney, he is the best you can find to have in your corner!!
Gwendolyn Dobson
Gwendolyn Dobson
21 days ago
I had the pleasure of using Lebedin Kofman LLP, i was greatly satisfied, my son had a very difficult case, assault on NYC police officer, and he got the case completely dismissed. They also work with you on payment plans, all in all i was very pleased, and would definitely use them again. But really hoping I won't need to! lol
Michael
Michael
21 days ago
I am writing this review to state Big Russ got me back Big Buck for my case.I thank God for Mr. Russ Kofman,and his fine team of lawyers and paralegals. That have the resources and knowledge to make the City and NYC Police Department Paid for what they did to me falsely arrested and falsely incarcerated me. Iam so Graceful ,Thankful and Well Please about the result of my case Mr.Kofman and that fine team of yours .All my plain and all my Suffering did not go away but it sure will help me along the way with that financial blessing.Its just fantastic and so amazing how much I got back. You guys guided me every step of the way.I appreciate all the time and all the effort it took for my result.You guys are heaven send. Thank You Mr.Russ Kofman an Team HALLELUJAH THANK YOU JESUS!!! God bless You Michael
Konkon Padios
Konkon Padios
21 days ago
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Saw this law firm online, based on good reviews, I contacted their office and Attorney Arthur Lebedin called me back outright and had given me consultations for free.  I went to his office and Atty. Arthur was so gracious listening to my woes with regards to my credit card debts.  He’s very knowledgeable of what he does and very professional too. Atty Arthur and everyone down the line - worked hand in hand to make things right for me sooner than I thought.  I paid just 1/3 of my outstanding obligations and saved over $9,200+ from the original amount I’m supposed to pay.  What an excellent settlement! So grateful to be represented by these amazing lawyers most especially to Attorney Arthur Lebedin, Attorney Stephannie Miranda and the rest of their team.  Needless to say, their professional fees are way too reasonable and fair with an option to pay it on an installment basis.  My case was settled/resolved in no less time.  Exceeded my expectations.  What a relief on my part for these settlement that they negotiated on my behalf.  Thank you very much.

Highly recommended!
Donald Morris
Donald Morris
21 days ago
I have been working with different law firms throughout my career. I have had a variety of experiences some good some bad. With that said, my experience with Lebedin Kofman LLP was stellar. They more than delivered. My experience could not have been better. Arthur and his team really had my back. I did alot of research upfront before selecting them and it really paid off. I cannot thank them enough.
Kurt R.
Kurt R.
21 days ago
We needed legal representation in NYC after our son got into some trouble at a nightclub with an overly aggressive bouncer. Living on the west coast, we were worried about getting the best representation for his case, being so far away. We took the leap and called up Russ Kofman based on the high reviews we saw on Yelp. He was very knowledgeable about the type of case and what could be hoped for in terms of trying to get the charges reduced from misdemeanor to violation. Although the hearing date was over 2 months out, we did not hear from the DA until almost the day before the hearing which was frustrating but out of our control. We then were assigned to work with Sahar Shams, an Associate at the firm that did a great job with last minutes planning and communication with us. Sahar had worked in the DA's office and so had a great insider's view of how they work. She was able to negotiate with the DA office to get the charges reduced even further than he hoped down to an ACD with additional favorable conditions which was a great relief for our son and us. Thanks to Sahar and Russ for the great service. We highly recommend them and the firm!
Coleman O.
Coleman O.
21 days ago
I have been blown away with the level of dedication, customer service and patience provided by this firm.  My husband had acquired a large amount of debt from school (an education he was unable to finish due to extenuating circumstances) and that debt was always hovering over him.  The debt collectors were offering ridiculous payment plans ($600 - $1200 a month when my husband only made $1000 a month).  Finding any resolution seemed hopeless, and then the loan went into default.  We knew we needed to seek help. My husband and I had a preliminary meeting with Arthur Lebedin to go over the details of the issues.  He was very understanding, patient and explained everything to us in terms we could understand.  He assured us that his firm has a good relationship with many debt collectors and they'd been successful in reaching agreements/payment plans that work for both parties. We had a lot of back and forth, but that's a good thing in this case.  They always kept us updated with what was going on.  We were dealing directly with Esta Kravets, a paralegal who went above and beyond the negotiate our debt agreement.  She worked with us over several months and assured us she would get us a deal that we could be comfortable with.  Anytime I was worried about the amount of time that had gone by, I was reassured that they were handling everything. And they did!  My husband ended up paying 1/3rd of his original debt.  That's amazing!  Resolving our debt paired with the overall professionalism and service they provided us during the entire process is what makes me give 5 stars.
Jennifer
Jennifer
21 days ago
Russ handled my domestic violence case which flowed into a very messy divorce. He guided me throw this very scary process and resolved the criminal case very quickly, then turned the tables on my husband and absolutely wiped the floor with his divorce lawyer. I was very happy standing next to him in court and I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a powerhouse lawyer. His fees were also very reasonable and the fact that you get a great team of lawyers working for you helps very much.
G-Check G.
G-Check G.
21 days ago
Going in for my DMV chemical refusal case, I was very anxious having my license being revoked for a up to a year. The odds were stacked against me, having little hope of any positive certainty. Russ Kofman explained in great detail of what I was facing and the fines that would accompany me in the near future. He showed me his plan and the research he had done. During the safety hearing I was able to witness the powerhouse that Russ Kofman is. He was able to dismiss my case and save tons of money on future fines. Leaving the court room I thought I was dreaming! Thank you Russ Kofman!
Matthew Rivera
Matthew Rivera
21 days ago
I have used them for my civil cases and my criminal cases they are very hard working and professional. They will stop at nothing to see that you get the justice you deserve and i highly recommend them to anyone who is in need of a great law firm. Lastly i would like to thank them for sticking by me and proving my innocence.
Kristen Kennelly
Kristen Kennelly
21 days ago
Amazing! I highly recommend Russ Kofman! My case was a difficult one and now I'm here without any criminal record thanks to Russ. He is highly skilled in DUI law and criminal defense law. I would recommend him to anyone. I'm so grateful that I chose him as my lawyer !! Very professional, if you're in need of a lawyer that truly is going to get you the best offer possible regarding a DUI, then I suggest Russ Kofman.
 Josh
Josh
21 days ago
Arthur was extremely kind and helpful when I first called him to get some advice on how to settle some credit card debt and student loan issues.

He was patient, understanding and clear and set my mind at ease about the entire situation. His team has been excellent in helping settle debts for substantially less than owed and have been an invaluable resource when it comes to helping get my financial house in order.

I would not hesitate to hire Arthur again and will do so if the need arises in the future.
Vasya I.
Vasya I.
21 days ago
I had a very tough felony cocaine possession and sale case in Queens. I was falsely accused and only Mr. Kofman believed in me. He worked non stop to get my case solved. The investigator he sent out found the evidence that later acquitted me. My family is forever grateful to this firm and I would tell you to call them if your family or friend is ever in trouble. They pick up the phone at any time even when my girlfriend called them at 2 or 3 am in an emergency. Kofman knows drug cases in and out and saved my family a ton of money on bail because he got me ror when the prosecutor was asking for a hundred thousand dollars bail bc of my history.
Satram P.
Satram P.
21 days ago
I was in a case of self-defense and Russ Kaufmann help me get my freedom back. They were trying to give me 2 - 7 years for something I didn't do and  Russ Kaufman believed in me and made sure that everything was going to be taken care of. After a few months of the court system delays the case was thrown out and i was a free man. thank you for everything. The professionalism the respect in the quality of care is superb. Hands down the best lawyer I have ever encountered.  A+ QUALITY FIRM. A definite recommendation to anyone.
Johnathan Franceschi
Johnathan Franceschi
21 days ago
Lebedin Kofman has been great to me. They were very understanding regarding my lawsuit and did everything in their power to help me. Kelsey Was amazing, answered back in a timely manner whenever I had Questions and never made me feel uncomfortable or like It wasn’t worth it. They worked hard and ended up getting me a nice sized lawsuit. I appreciate them for all of their work and would recommend to anyone looking for a lawyer who actually cares about you and your case.
James Garland
James Garland
21 days ago
Lebedin Kofman LLP is INCREDIBLE!!!!! Arthur and his team demonstrate exceptional professionalism and legal expertise. I was so scared when I received a letter from the court but, Arthur and his team took the time to carefully explain my options and they worked with me to find a solution. Not only did they solve the problem, they got the case thrown out. I can't praise their work enough.  I've never written a review in my life , but, I had to for Lebedin Kofman LLP.
Lain
Lain
21 days ago
I was charged with grand larceny. Russ Kofman and his team had all criminal charges against me dropped, I was found guilty of a minor violation. At all times Russ and his associates were available for me and were extremely helpful and professional. I hope that I never have a need for a lawyer again, however Russ Kofman would be my only choice should the need arise.
Sharone
Sharone
21 days ago
I had criminal charges against me and needed to hire a lawyer fast. I decided to call Russ Kofman and told him about my case. The cops locked me up and Russ and his team made sure that I was going to get out. Russ told me to keep calm and let him handle everything. Words can’t explain how Russ got me out less then 34 hours and to top it off he made the DA dropped the charges and had the case dismissed.After I got out Lebedin Kofman and I decided to file a lawsuit against the city, and they got me a great settlement.

Do not hesitate to call this firm because they will be right by your side every step of the way. They surely live up to their great reviews.
T M
T M
21 days ago
I contacted this firm after spending nearly a year worrying about the consequences of answering a bench warrant. After submitting my information online I was called later that day and spoke to the attorney. His professionalism and knowledge were immediately comforting and I knew I had made the right move. I appeared in court with an attorney from the firm who guided me every step of the way. I only wish I would I have contacted Lebedin Kofman earlier instead of letting fear of the justice system get the best of me. Thank you Lebedin Kofman for helping me get back on the right track, I would highly recommend this firm.
Dennis C.
Dennis C.
21 days ago
I had a very dicey refusal that could have gone very badly. Russ was able to get me the best deal possible. He represented me at the DMV refusal hearing, and got it dropped entirely. No fees, loss of license or points! Additionally, in the criminal charges, he worked diligently for months and got that dropped to a violation. When I contacted Russ, I was looking at a very long term loss of my license and a permanent criminal record. But his knowledge of the law and hard work got me the best results imaginable. I would highly recommend him!
Peter
Peter
21 days ago
I had such a great experience with Arthur. I was impressed with how quickly he worked on my case and delivered a result that was beyond what I had expected. He responded to all my questions quickly and allayed my worries. I was lucky to have found him and I would definitely consult him again if any future issues arise.
Jasper MIcheals
Jasper MIcheals
21 days ago
These guys are great! I am a student in college that made the mistake of drinking and driving. Needless to say, that will never happen again but the entire experience was traumatic. These guys were able to dismiss my criminal charges and find the best possible outcome for my situation. I highly recommend them for their dedication, expertise and professionalism!
Marie
Marie5 days ago
After previously hiring 2 law firms, I had almost lost hope of reaching an affordable settlement for a judgment when I came across the website of Mr. Lebedin. In my first conversation with him, Mr. Lebedin listened attentively and then gave a clear assessment of the case, where he explained several options. Because of his honesty, I hired his firm right away. His legal team updated me on their progress via email during several months of tough negotiations. Mr. Lebedin and his team identified stumbling blocks in the negotiations, which they resolved to get an acceptable settlement agreement. After the creditor received payment, Mr. Lebedin and his team followed through to make sure that the creditor and their counsel honored their part of the agreement. I cannot thank Mr. Lebedin and his staff enough for their commitment and persistence in resolving this case. The associate attorney on the case, Ms. Miranda, was outstanding. I highly recommend Mr. Lebedin and the law firm of Lebedin Kofman LLP.
Greg C.
Greg C.
21 days ago
I was charged with a DWI last year. I definitely did not know what to do. Until I did my research and found out about this law firm. Amazing lawyers who worked hard on my case and got it dismissed!! I would recommend Lebedin Kofman to anyone looking for a DWI lawyer in NYC!
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