Juvenile Drug Charges
People are arrested every single day in New York City for all kinds of drug crimes, but the seriousness of criminal charges becomes more dramatic for alleged offenders who are juveniles (children under the age of 16). New York State is currently one of only two states in the nation in which alleged offenders 16 years of age or older are automatically placed into the adult criminal system.
New York’s Criminal Court system has jurisdiction over youthful offenders aged 16-18 as well as alleged juvenile offenders aged 13-15 for designated offenses such as drug possession or sale of a controlled substance. It is important for minors without prior criminal records to understand that they may be eligible for diversion programs which allow them to avoid convictions and criminal records.
Lawyer for Juvenile Drug Charges in Nassau County, NY
If you or your child were arrested in New York City for an alleged drug crime, it is in your best interest to make sure that you retain legal counsel before making any kind of statement to authorities. Law Office of Stephanie Selloni defends juveniles facing criminal charges in Lynbrook, Mineola, Oyster Bay, Hempstead, Long Beach, and several other surrounding areas of Long Island.
Stephanie Selloni is an experienced criminal defense attorney in Garden City who will make every effort to protect your child’s future.
Call (516) 972-1212 today to have our lawyer review your case and help you understand all of your legal options during a free initial consultation.
New York Juvenile Drug Charges Information Center
- Which kinds of drug crimes are juveniles frequently charged with?
- Are there any diversion programs for juvenile offenders?
- Where can I find more information about juvenile drug charges in Garden City?
Types of Juvenile Drug Charges in Long Island, NY
A person younger than 16 years of age can be arrested and charged with any one of the same drug crimes that an adult may be prosecuted for. Some of the most common controlled substance offenses that juveniles are arrested for in New York include, but are not limited to:
- Drug Trafficking
- Possession of Methamphetamines / Meth
- Misdemeanor Marijuana Possession
- Felony Marijuana Possession
Treatment Courts for Juvenile Drug Charges in Garden City, NY
The Drug Courts of New York City Criminal Court operate in Criminal Court in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island. In order to successfully complete the Queens Misdemeanor Treatment Court (QMTC) program, an alleged offender will need to complete or be near completion of treatment, follow all program rules, participate in all required activities, and provide negative urine tests for a minimum of four months.
QMTC participants must participate in the court mandate for at least eight months. All participants must complete all three phases of the program, with the first phase lasting at least 30 days, the second phase lasting at least 60 days, and the third phase lasting at least 90 days.
Any violation of QMTC program rules can lead to one of numerous sanctions, including a possible public reprimand from the judge, additional court appearances, or possibly the imposition of the original jail sentence for the underlying offense. Certain felony offenders may also be eligible for participation in drug court programs.
Juvenile Drug Charge Resources in Nassau County
QMTC | New York State Unified Court System — QMTC is a program for misdemeanor offenders arrested in Queens who also abuse drugs. Instead of jail or probation, QMTC allows people to enter and stay in a drug or alcohol treatment program while making regular court appearances and being supervised by the QMTC judge. Read more about the mission of the QMTC and find answers to frequently asked questions.
Queens Misdemeanor Treatment Court
125-01 Queens Blvd.
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
(718) 298-0914
New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) — OASAS addresses the prevention, treatment and recovery needs of New Yorkers with drug, alcohol and/or gambling addictions. Use this website to access treatment, find a treatment provider, and learn more about recovery. You can also find information about regulations, laws, and recent news and notices.
Law Office of Stephanie Selloni | Garden City Juvenile Drug Charges Defense Attorney
Were you or your child arrested for any kind of alleged drug crime in New York City? You will want to refuse to say anything to authorities until you have first contacted Law Office of Stephanie Selloni.
Nassau County criminal defense lawyer Stephanie Selloni represents residents and visitors in communities throughout Long Island, such as Glen Cove, Massapequa Park, North Hempstead, Freeport, Garden City, and many others. You can have our attorney provide a complete evaluation when you call (516) 972-1212 or submit an online contact form to schedule a free initial consultation.