New York Drug Possession Lawyer
Let a Former Prosecutor Fight for You
Have you been charged with drug possession? Face them with the confidence
of knowing you have an experienced and passionate legal advocate in your
corner. At the Law Office of Richard Southard, you can find a team of
New York drug crimes lawyers who are dedicated to defending the rights
of the accused with efficiency and aggressiveness.
The best defense is anticipating your opposition’s next move. As
a former prosecutor, Attorney Southard knows how the prosecution works.
He can use this unique insight to your advantage in the courtroom to directly
counter their arguments. With nearly 20 years of experience, he knows
what it takes to win and is ready to fight for you.
View our recent
case results to see what we have been able to do for our past clients.
What is possession?
In New York law, if you are found with illegal substances on your person,
you can be charged with drug possession. This is one of the most common
drug charges, and is challenging in that the prosecution does not have to prove that
you were using the drug. Additionally, you can be charged if you were
found in possession of objects and paraphernalia associated with drug use.
In order to be convicted of drug possession, the prosecution must prove that:
- You possessed the controlled substance with full knowledge and intention
- You did not have a valid prescription
- The amount was sufficient for personal use or distribution
These factors, however, allow for a number of defensive strategies. For
example, one of the most common defenses against drug possession charges
is simply that you did not know about the drugs. If the controlled substance
was found in your apartment, but they belonged to your roommate and you
were unaware of their existence, you cannot be convicted of possession.
Another possible strategy is the concept of diversion, which may allow
you to keep your record clean by completing a treatment program for substance
abuse. This option is available to first-time offenders who plead guilty;
if no other offense is committed within the diversion period, the guilty
plea may be vacated and the case dismissed.
Don’t Wait to Begin Building Your Case
You have too much at stake to settle for anything less than quality
criminal defense representation. At the Law Office of Richard Southard, you can trust that
your rights will be protected and your freedom defended. Our New York
drug crimes attorneys want to ensure that your reputation is upheld and
will do everything in our power to fight for you.
Take the first step and
contact our firm today.