Long Island's Premier Criminal & DWI Defense Law Firm
Suffolk County Drug Crime Lawyer (PL 220.03, 220.16)
Drug charges in Suffolk County often start with a traffic stop on the Long Island Expressway, Sunrise Highway or a local road, followed by a search. Misdemeanor possession cases are handled at the First District Court in Central Islip or an East End town court. Felony possession and sale cases go to Suffolk County Court. Richard Hochhauser of Hochhauser Criminal & DWI Defense, PLLC is a former prosecutor who defends drug charges across Suffolk County.
Free Consultation
In person, by video call or phone call
On over 230 reviews
Former Prosecutor
Brings years of experience from both sides to every case.
Charged with a drug crime in Suffolk County?
Call before your first court date. We answer 24/7, and the first consultation is free, in person, by video call or by phone call.
Drug charges in Suffolk County
Possession, 7th degree
Any amount of a controlled substance, including pills without a prescription. A class A misdemeanor.
Felony possession
Larger amounts, or possession with intent to sell, charged as class D, C or B felonies.
Sale of a controlled substance
Selling, or offering to sell, drugs. Charges and sentences are serious, but some cases qualify for diversion.
Drugs found in a car
New York law can presume everyone in a car possessed drugs found in it, but there are exceptions, and the presumption can be challenged.
Treatment can change the outcome. An early drug evaluation, and treatment if it’s recommended, often leads to a better offer. Some felony drug cases qualify for judicial diversion, which can end in a dismissal. For the full charge table, see our Long Island drug possession lawyer page.
Which Suffolk court will my case be in?
Central Islip
First District Court
Misdemeanor cases and arraignments from Babylon, Huntington, Islip, Smithtown and Brookhaven. Cohalan Court Complex, 400 Carleton Avenue, Central Islip.
East End
Town & village justice courts
Arrests in Riverhead, Southampton, East Hampton, Southold and Shelter Island, plus some village arrests.
Felonies
Suffolk County Court
Felony possession and sale cases after indictment.
What happens after a drug arrest in Suffolk
- Arrest or desk appearance ticket. Small possession cases often start with a ticket. Felony cases usually mean you’re held for arraignment.
- Lab testing and discovery. The prosecution must test the substance and turn over the stop and search video. We look for suppression issues.
- Evaluation or treatment. Getting evaluated early shows the prosecution you’re taking the case seriously.
- Resolution. Many first-time possession cases end in an ACD or a reduction to a violation. Felony cases may qualify for diversion.
Recent Suffolk County results
See our recent drug results on the Long Island drug possession lawyer page, including several 2026 cases that ended in an ACD.
Areas we serve in Suffolk County
Our offices are in Hempstead and Garden City. Suffolk clients can meet with us in person, or skip the drive with a free video call or phone call. We answer 24/7.
- Amityville
- Babylon
- Bay Shore
- Brentwood
- Central Islip
- Commack
- Coram
- Deer Park
- Huntington
- Islip
- Lindenhurst
- Patchogue
- Riverhead
- Ronkonkoma
- Shirley
- Smithtown
- Southampton
- West Babylon
- Wyandanch
Suffolk drug charges: frequently asked questions
Is possession of a small amount of drugs a crime in Suffolk County?
Yes. Possessing any amount of a controlled substance, like cocaine or pills without a prescription, is a class A misdemeanor. Many first-time cases can be resolved with an ACD.
Can the police search my car during a traffic stop?
Only in certain situations, such as with your consent, a warrant, or probable cause. If the search was illegal, the drugs can be suppressed and the case can be dismissed.
Is marijuana legal in Suffolk County?
Adults 21 and over can legally possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis in New York. Larger amounts, sales without a license and driving while impaired can still be charged.
How much does a Suffolk County drug lawyer cost?
It depends on the charge and how far the case goes. Hochhauser Criminal & DWI Defense, PLLC charges a flat fee, quoted after your free consultation.
Talk to a former prosecutor today
Free consultation in person, by video call or by phone call. We answer 24/7. The earlier we start, the more options you have.
Our Offices
Garden City Office
1225 Franklin Ave #325
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (516) 939-1529
Appointments Only
See What Our Clients Are Saying
During what was one of the scariest times of my life, he gave me all of the knowledge and support possible to help me get through it. Not only did I end up getting a great outcome for my case, but Richard helped make it a very smooth process and was always there when I had...
Mr. Hochausser worked hard on my behalf.. so hard that he achieved what seemed impossible. He always communicated with me honestly and earnestly, which is rare in any profession these days. He was prepared and forthright every step of the way. I hope to never need his services...
Best Criminal Attorney in New York. Richard explains each detail slowly and carefully so it’s easily understood. He handles each case as if it’s the most important. Highly recommend!
Best DWI lawyer in New York!
Mr. Hochhauser was incredible. I was consulted immediately after the first call. Richard was easy to keep in touch with and would answer all of my emails, phone calls, and even texts regarding my concerns. Guided me through the whole process, made sure I understood everything...
Richard explained the matters of my case thoroughly and was professional and effective in dealing with the charges I was facing, ultimately getting the docket dismissed in its entirety. I would highly recommend procuring his services.
Was in a bad spot but Richard Hochhauser got me great results on my DWI case in Nassau County. Highly Recommend!!!
Can't thank Richard enough. He went aobve and beyond for me. Never had any issues with the law before and he made sure I had no record. Great Criminal Attorney!!!
Was never really in trouble before. And just googled best criminal attorney near me. Feel so lucky that Richard was the one I called. He really fought for me was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend!!
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