Search Site
Menu

New York’s drug paraphernalia laws

When New Yorkers think of drug crimes, they probably think of drug possession and drug distribution. Although these are perhaps amongst the most common and most serious of drug offenses, there are a whole host of other drug=related laws that can leave an individual facing the potentiality of serious penalties should he or she be convicted.

Amongst these laws are those that pertain to drug paraphernalia. For example, under New York law it is illegal to possess a hypodermic needle when the possessor knowingly controls it for the purposes of committing a criminal offense. Therefore, if a syringe is possessed for the purpose of injecting illegal narcotics, then an individual can be convicted of this offense, which is a Class A misdemeanor. It is not illegal, of course, to possess a syringe so long as its use is legal, such as for the injection of diabetes medication.

New York has other drug paraphernalia laws, too. It is illegal, for example, to possess scales and balances for the purpose of weighing drugs. It is also illegal to possess capsules used to package drugs, as well as stimulants that can be used to mix drugs. These crimes are also a Class A misdemeanor, unless an individual has a prior paraphernalia conviction, at which time the offense is upgraded to a Class D felony.

The penalties for a drug paraphernalia conviction, while not as severe as drug possession or drug distribution, can still wreak havoc on an individual’s life. He or she may wind up serving jail time, paying a fine, and succumbing to a mark on their record that can affect their housing and employment. Fortunately, most of those who are confronting these types of charges have criminal defense options available to them. Those who wish to learn more about how to protect themselves in criminal proceedings should consider discussing their case with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

James L. Riotto Attorney Photo
James L. Riotto
Criminal Defense Lawyer

James L. Riotto is an accomplished criminal defense attorney serving clients in New York. With an extensive background in law enforcement and criminal prosecution, his approach to each case is unique and informed by years of experience with the New York criminal justice system. As a graduate from Albany Law School and before going on to start his own practice, James worked at the Albany County District Attorney's Office, where he helped prosecute many DWI offenses. His inside knowledge of the tactics used to gain convictions provides him with a particular advantage when defending against DUI and other criminal charges.

Adam D. Staier Attorney Photo
Adam D. Staier
Of Counsel

About Attorney Adam Staier has spent the last seven years practicing criminal defense law throughout upstate New York and the Capital Region. He began his legal career through internships in civil law, indigent legal representation and federal energy law regulation. Finding a passion in criminal law, Mr. Staier held internships handling both prosecution and defense…

William M. Swift Attorney Photo
William M. Swift
Associate Attorney

About William M. Swift is an associate attorney at the Law Office of James L. Riotto and brings 20 years of experience to our clients. His practice focuses on personal injury cases and criminal matters. He has successfully represented individuals in felony, misdemeanor cases. Additionally, he has extensive knowledge in DMV administrative proceedings involving suspensions…

  • What to do if pulled over for a DUI


    How to deal with a DWI traffic stop

    How you handle getting pulled over for a DUI/DWI can significantly affect your defense down the road. For instance, declining the officer's request to search your vehicle and avoiding specific answers when asked about any substances you may have consumed could help you when combating DUI/DWI charges in court.
    READ MORE
Reviews and Ratings
  • google
    5.0/5.0

    Professional and prompt. Good experience.

    Read more

    alexander simon

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    "I had an exceptional experience with the Law office of James L. Riotto in a traffic case. His professionalism and experience were evident from the beginning. He guided me through the legal process with clarity and tranquility, and in court, his abil...

    Read more

    Me da lo Mismo

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    With anything in life you get what you pay for, And when your family and life hang in the balance due to a miscarriage of the justice system these are the people you want by your side. Everyone in the office is understanding and makes sure you are pa...

    Read more

    Michael Waterhouse

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    I would highly recommend Mr Riotto and his law firm. Their experience, diligence and persistence led to my case being dismissed from town court. I wouldn't hesitate to use the practice again, but sure hope I never have the need :)

    Read more

    Sandra Newland

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    James Riotto help me with a traffic issue i had since november of 2023 the court kept pushing the dates back and making me extremely nervous about it but the partners of the law office helped me and i felt comfortable and i left it in their hand than...

    Read more

    Pete Pereyra

See all reviews
  • AV Rated by Martindale | Client Champion Platinum Award
    Avvo Client's Choice
    Lead Counsel Verified Badge
  • Superlawyers Rising Star
    Expertise Best Criminal Attorney in Rochester
    Justia 10.0 Rating

We Accept the Following Payment Solutions

Contact us

Quick Contact Form