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3 Common Defenses For Drug Crimes

3 Common Defenses For Drug Crimes When you or a loved one is arrested or under investigation for drug crimes, it’s an undoubtedly serious and stressful situation. The state of New York carries some stiff penalties for drug crimes throughout the state, and finding a defense with the assistance of your attorney is your best chance of a fair trial and conviction. There are several different defenses that may be used in a drug crime case, and which will be the best fit for a particular case will depend heavily on the specifics of the individual case in question, but 3 common defenses for drug crimes are:

1. Lack of knowledge – If a controlled substance was found in a vehicle or on a person by way of a pocket or purse, a lack of knowledge defense may be used. With this defense, it will be argued that the defendant wasn’t aware that the substance was on their person or in their vehicle, and that they were placed or left there by another party without the defendant’s knowledge. This may be used if passengers were in the vehicle or the clothing or accessories were borrowed.

2. Possession for personal use – In instances of defending against the distribution of a controlled substance, an attorney may present the argument that the controlled substance was for personal use. Distribution charges in the state of New York are far more severe than charges that may be faced for controlled substances for personal use, which is why it’s important that if the substance was for personal use, the case is presented as such.

3. Infancy – If the defendant is under 16 years of age, an infancy defense may be used in controlled substance cases. This defense uses the defendant’s age and lack of wisdom as a means to lessen their charges and often get them controlled substance assistance rather than a harsh sentencing.

A strong defense is necessary in many drug crimes cases, and only a professional drug crimes attorney in the state of New York will be able to build this defense in a useful way. In cases of drug crimes, our attorneys at Naiburg, Obedin, and Weissman can help in crafting your defense in a way that works for you and your case. If you’re in need of a drug crimes attorney to present your defense, call us today to see what we can do for you.