Possession of less than 2 ounces of cannabis in a non-public dwelling is considered illegal possession, punishable by a fine of up to $100. A second offence may result in a fine of up to $200. A third offence is punishable by a $250 fine and 15 days in jail.

An arrest for possession of less than two ounces of marijuana in a public place is classified as criminal possession of marijuana in the fifth degree, a Class B misdemeanor punishable by three months in prison. Nonetheless, it is strongly advised that you must hire a private defense attorney to handle your case, as convictions can result in the loss of a job or certain privileges.

Distinctions between State and Federal Laws

This page cannot cover the entire range of scenarios and potential punishments for each illegal substance. The problem is exacerbated by New York State’s ever-changing legal landscape. Looking at marijuana will give us an idea of the range of consequences that a convicted person may face.

Federal Penalties for marijuana crime

• A first conviction can result in a year in prison.
• A second conviction can result in 15 days to two years in prison and a $2,500 fine.
• A third conviction is punishable by 90 days in prison and a maximum of three years in prison.
• Penalties (Fines, Sentences) in New York State for Marijuana-Related Offenses

A $100 fine is imposed for possessing less than 2 ounces of marijuana in a public place. A second offence carries a fine of up to $200. A third offence may result in a $250 fine and 15 days in jail. An arrest for possession of less than 2 ounces of marijuana in a public place is punishable by 90 days in jail.

Drugs Trafficking

Drug trafficking has existed since people began using drugs. Drug smugglers have continued to innovate in their attempts to outwit law enforcement. Meanwhile, police must try to keep up. Billions of dollars are spent in an attempt to combat trafficking, and the smugglers get smarter day by day. According to a Drug Enforcement Agency report from 2012, the agency believes it can stop half of the drugs entering the country.

With the volume of drugs entering America from the north and the amount of money entering from the south, even a drug interception rate of 50% leaves a lot of drugs on the streets. The United States’ legal authorities are fighting drug trafficking and enforcement in two ways.

If you have been wrongfully accused of smuggling, contact our drug trafficking attorneys at Us Legal Law firm to discuss your specific case.

Are you arrested in NY on drug charges?

Call us today if you are facing a drug charge in New York, such as a cocaine charge or any other type of Federal possession of a controlled substance. Our Drug Defense Attorneys in Long Island, NY believe that addicts and substance abusers require assistance and treatment rather than punishment! We work hard to find a solution through the courts that does not require you to spend time in jail. Please contact us if you or a family member is struggling with addiction and in trouble with the law. The legal law firm long island possess one of New York’s top ranked criminal defense attorneys, frequently praised for being not only capable legal advocates, but also compassionate and non-judgmental listeners.