Drug Possession Charges in Nassau County: Your Legal Options

Drug Possession Charges: Your Legal Options

Facing drug possession charges in Nassau County can be overwhelming — but you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether it involves marijuana, prescription pills, or more serious controlled substances, the penalties depend on the type and amount of drug involved. Laura Mecklosky provides experienced legal representation to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome.

Types of Drug Possession Charges in Nassau County

Types of Drug Possession Charges

Possession of a Controlled Substance (Misdemeanor or Felony)

• Small quantities (under 100 grams of marijuana or under 500 mg of certain prescriptions): often classify as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine

• Larger quantities or repeat offenses: typically felonies, with steeper consequences

Intent to Distribute

• Accused of having enough drugs to suggest sale or distribution, even without cash or packaging

• Considered a felony, carrying several years in prison and large fines

Prescription Drug Charges

• Includes using, possessing, or sharing prescription medications without a valid prescription

• Often felonies, depending on substance type and quantity

Possession of Paraphernalia

• Less severe charge (e.g., glass pipes, scales) but still a misdemeanor involving fines or small jail time

What Kind of Case Are You Facing?

Penalties in Nassau County vary depending on the substance and amount:

  • Marijuana (under 100g) → Misdemeanor: up to 1 year jail, $1K fine

  • Prescription pills → Misdemeanor or Felony depending on dosage

  • Larger marijuana possession or controlled substances → Felony: possible years in prison, high fines

  • Paraphernalia → Misdemeanor: fines up to $250

Court outcomes can be swayed by circumstances: prior record, paraphernalia, or intent to distribute, all potentially turning a misdemeanor into a felony.

How Laura Can Help Defend You

1. Challenge Traffic Stops and Searches

If evidence came from a traffic stop or fingerprint, Laura may be able to suppress it if your rights were violated.

2. Negotiation for Reduced Charges

She can work toward reducing felony charges to misdemeanors or negotiating Diversion Programs or Drug Court alternatives.

3. Use of Expert Testimony

In certain cases, test results may be unreliable, lab errors or improper packaging can be challenged in court.

4. Representing You Throughout the Process

From arraignment to sentencing, Laura defends you every step of the way.

Local Experience in Nassau County Courts

Nassau County courts (in places like Hempstead, Mineola, and Freeport) may allow conditional discharge or drug treatment programs for first-time or low-level offenders. Laura uses her local knowledge to pursue these options whenever possible.

Albany & NY State Laws

 

  • New York classifies drug possession based on drug schedules and dosage.

  • For example, bulk marijuana is Class E felony for over 2 ounces (NY CPL § 221.05), with up to 4 years in prison.

  • NY’s Drug Charges & Penalties guide helps explain outcomes.

If You’re Charged in Nassau County

Don’t wait, the earlier you contact a lawyer, the better the outcome. Laura can help:

  • File motions to dismiss evidence

  • Negotiate plea deals or alternative sentencing

  • Represent you at court or DMV hearings

  • Fight for your future

Facing drug charges? You’re not alone. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case.

Helpful Resources