What To Do if You’ve Been Arrested for Drug Crimes in New York

Being charged with a drug offense in New York can be stressful and frightening, especially if you do not know what to expect. Suddenly, you are being interrogated and you aren’t sure what your future holds. It can be useful to take some time to learn about your legal rights and think about what steps you should take if you ever find yourself facing drug charges in New York.

The Arrest

If the authorities place you under arrest for a drug-related crime, you will likely be placed in handcuffs and read your Miranda rights. It’s highly advisable that you remain silent until you have the chance to speak to an attorney. Law enforcement officers will try to get you to talk and admit your guilt, so try to remain as quiet as possible.

At the station, you’ll be booked and processed for your arraignment, where you’ll appear before a judge to receive your formal charges.

Contacting an Attorney

As soon as you can, reach out to a criminal defense attorney and follow their advice. Drug charges vary, and many prosecutors may try to turn a simple possession charge to a “possession with an intent to distribute” charge, which is a much more serious crime. Your attorney will go over the specifics of your arrest with you, looking for any violation of your rights or evidence that could be used to exonerate you.

Developing a Strong Defense

Depending on the specifics of your case, your attorney will determine the best legal strategy to take. In some instances, the charges will eventually be lessened or dropped altogether, while other situations may lead you to accept a plea bargain or go to trial. Each step of the way, your attorney will work with you to help you understand your options and advise you on the strongest path forward.

If you or a loved one is currently facing a drug-related charge in New City, contact the Law Office of Yvonne Garbett at (845) 290-2492 to speak to a dedicated and experienced criminal defense attorney.