New York Drug Trafficking Attorney

Defending Drug Trafficking & Distribution Charges in Suffolk & Nassau Counties

The State of New York has some of the harshest drug distribution and drug trafficking laws in the country. Not only are these laws notoriously severe, they are also extremely complex. To make matters worse, New York prosecutors are infamous for aggressively pursuing drug-related charges to uphold their “tough on drugs” reputation.

When the odds are stacked against you, you can level the playing field by retaining the counsel of Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP, a firm that has a national reputation for results. Our New York drug trafficking lawyers have represented thousands of clients at the state and federal level. Our team includes renowned legal professionals who are known as thought leaders in their respective fields, and we have diverse experience as former prosecutors, legal aid attorneys, and even judges. Barket Epstein has the resources and experience to take on any type of drug crime case, at any level.

For a free consultation and review of your drug trafficking or distribution case, call (888) 779-0267 or contact us online to speak with our New York drug trafficking attorneys.

What is a Drug Distribution Charge in New York?

To be guilty of the criminal sale, or distribution, of a controlled substance or marijuana in New York, a person must knowingly and unlawfully sell a controlled substance or marijuana. New York law provides an extensive list of controlled substances, with the most common being: cocaine, ecstasy (“molly”), GHB, heroin, ketamine, LSD (“acid”), methadone, methamphetamine (“meth”), PCP, prescription drugs, and psilocybin mushrooms (“mushrooms” or “shrooms”).

You can face different charges for the same general activity of selling controlled substances or marijuana. The specific charge is dependent upon the circumstances of the alleged conduct, including what was sold, how much, and the recipient and environment.

In the most serious allegations, prosecutors may charge someone with “operating as a major drug trafficker.”

What is Drug Trafficking in New York?

In New York, drug trafficking generally refers to the illegal distribution, sale, transportation, or importation of controlled substances.

Common forms of drug trafficking can include:

• Distribution and Sale: Selling or providing controlled substances to others, whether on a small scale or as part of a larger operation.
• Transportation: Moving illegal drugs from one location to another, often across state or national borders.
• Manufacturing: Illegally producing controlled substances, such as methamphetamine or illegal laboratories.
• Smuggling: Bringing illegal drugs into the country or across state lines, often through covert means.
• Conspiracy: Collaborating with others to engage in drug trafficking activities.
• Money Laundering: Concealing the proceeds from drug trafficking by making them appear to come from legitimate sources.

Penalties for drug trafficking in New York vary based on factors such as the type and quantity of drugs involved, the defendant's criminal history, and the circumstances of the offense.

The penalties can be severe and may include:

• Criminal Charges: Drug trafficking offenses can lead to criminal charges such as criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal sale of a controlled substance, or conspiracy.
• Imprisonment: Individuals convicted of drug trafficking may face significant prison sentences. The length of imprisonment depends on the specific charges and the severity of the offense.
• Fines: Convicted individuals may be required to pay fines as part of their punishment. The amount of the fines can vary and is typically influenced by the type and quantity of drugs involved.
• Forfeiture of Assets: Authorities may seize assets, including money, property, or vehicles, believed to be connected to drug trafficking.
• Mandatory Minimum Sentences: In some cases, mandatory minimum sentences may apply, requiring the court to impose a specific minimum term of imprisonment.
• Probation and Parole: Instead of or in addition to imprisonment, a court may impose probation or parole, subjecting the individual to supervision and certain conditions.
• Professional Consequences: A drug trafficking conviction can have long-lasting consequences, affecting one's professional and personal life, including employment opportunities and professional licenses.

Additionally, if the drug trafficking operation occurred in more than one state besides New York, or more than one country, then you may face federal drug trafficking charges. A federal conviction is punishable by harsher sentences, including lengthier prison terms and fines worth hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars.