What Is the Punishment for Possession of Oxycodone in New York City?

Over the past decade the drug "oxycodone" has become a particularly popular drug among drug users and addicts. Although oxycodone is a legal prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe chronic pain, possession of oxycodone in New York City without a valid prescription is a criminal offense. Because of the unique nature of a criminal prosecution, only an experienced New York City criminal defense attorney can review your case and provide you with individualized advice if you have been charged with possession of oxycodone. A broad overview, however, of the laws relating to possession of oxycodone in New York may also be helpful.

Oxycodone is an opioid pain medication that is typically prescribed to treat someone suffering from chronic moderate to severe pain. Oxycodone can be prescribed in an extended release form or a sort-acting form. The short acting form of the drug is what has become popular on the street.  Listed as a Schedule II drug under the federal Controlled Substances Act, the drug does have a currently acceptable medicinal use but also has a high potential for abuse.

Possession of any form of oxycodone in the State of New York without a valid prescription is generally a felony offense. This means that even if your well-meaning friend gave you a single pill because you were in a considerable amount of pain from an accident you had, possession of that pill may constitute a criminal offense in the State of New York.

The potential penalties for a conviction for possession of oxycodone will depend on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the following:

• The quantity of pills you had at the time of the arrest
• Whether there was any evidence that you were selling or transporting the drugs
• Your criminal history – specifically if you have previously been convicted of a similar criminal offense
• Whether you had a firearm or other weapon on you at the time of the arrest

In New York, possession of a controlled substance can be charged as anything from a seventh degree through a first degree offense, meaning you could be charged with a class A misdemeanor through a class A felony for possession of oxycodone. Consequently, the punishment you face can also range from a maximum of year in prison to an 8-20 year prison sentence along with corresponding fines.

If you have been charged with possession of oxycodone in the State of New York, consult an experienced New York City criminal defense attorney right away to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the prosecution of  your case and to begin formulating your defense. Contact the Law Offices of Adam Thompson today by calling 917-746-7584 to schedule your appointment.