Federal Criminal Charges in Nassau County

Drug charges in Nassau County may carry life-altering consequences, including prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, immigration and education (NYS Penal Law § 70.70). The sooner you visit a lawyer and build a defense, the better your chances of mitigating penalties or securing a dismissal. Time is critical—delaying legal action can weaken your case.

At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we act swiftly to challenge every detail, from illegal searches to flawed evidence handling. With deep knowledge of Nassau County courts, we craft tailored defenses to fight for reduced charges or dismissals. From day one, we are committed to protecting your rights and future. Let us stand with you.

The Importance of Hiring a Qualified Drug Crime Lawyer

When facing drug charges in Nassau County, having an experienced attorney by your side is crucial.

Drug laws in New York are among the strictest in the United States, and Nassau County enforces these laws with particular rigor. Prosecutors in Nassau County are experienced in handling drug-related cases and frequently seek severe penalties, especially for offenses involving controlled substances like cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl. 

For example, in April 2025, a major drug trafficker in Suffolk County, adjacent to Nassau, was sentenced to 53 years in prison for operating a large-scale cocaine and fentanyl trafficking ring, illustrating the severe consequences of serious drug offenses in the region. 

Compared to states with more lenient legislation, such as Colorado, where personal possession of small amounts of drugs like cocaine or heroin has been decriminalized for personal use, New York’s laws impose felony charges for even minor possession, with potential sentences ranging from one to seven years depending on the drug and quantity. 

This contrast highlights New York’s punitive approach and also shows the importance of having a good lawyer.

In addition, here is why having our team on your side is essential:

• Deep understanding of local laws: We know the intricacies of Nassau County’s legal system and how it applies to drug crimes. This knowledge allows us to build stronger defenses tailored to your specific situation.
• Experience in sentencing: New York’s sentencing structure for drug offenses is complex. We navigate these guidelines to pursue a good outcome for your case, whether that’s reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or case dismissal. While New York state cases are less regimented than their federal equivalents, sentencing in Nassau County drug matters is still complex and requires a lot of experience and knowledge. 
• Skilled negotiation with prosecutors: Our experience allows us to effectively negotiate with the District Attorney’s office, seeking plea deals or alternative resolutions to reduce potential penalties significantly. Alternative resolutions may be participation in a drug diversion program or attending in-patient or out-patient rehab. 
• Protection of your constitutional rights: We scrutinize every aspect of your arrest and the evidence against you. If law enforcement violated your rights during the process, we’ll fight to have evidence suppressed or precluded. This may result in a dismissal of your charges or dismissal of the most serious charges. 

Navigating collateral consequences: A drug conviction can impact more than just your freedom—it can affect your job, housing, immigration status and family. We work to minimize these long-term effects on your life.

2. Arraignment 

Within 24 to 48 hours of your arrest, you should appear before a criminal court judge for arraignment. This is where:

• The charges against you are explained. Most attorneys waive the public reading of the charges, but go over a copy of the charging instrument with you ahead of time. 
• You enter an initial plea (usually “not guilty”)
• The judge sets bail, orders remand or releases on your own recognizance. If you are released on bail or even if you are released without bail, the judge may order that you are supervised by electronic monitoring (i.e. location monitoring or e-bracelet).  

At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we move fast to be by your side at this critical stage. We argue for your release, or reasonable bail and work to ensure any bail conditions that are imposed are not onerous. 

3. Pre-Trial Proceedings

This phase involves several important steps:

• Discovery: We obtain and review all the evidence the prosecution has against you. We provide you copies of your discovery, if we are permitted to share the discovery under the protective order. 
• Pre-trial motions: We may file motions to suppress evidence, challenge sufficiency of the Grand Jury presentation (felony matters only) or dismiss charges if we find legal issues with your arrest, evidence collection, or Grand Jury presentation. 
• Plea bargaining: In some cases, we negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties.

During this stage, our team meticulously checks every detail of your case. We look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and try to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. No case is the same, each has its own arch in the criminal justice system. After seeing the discovery and identifying issues in the Government’s case, we develop case strategy. 

4. Trial

If your case goes to trial, here’s what to expect:

• Jury selection (in cases where defense did not waive a jury trial)
• Opening statements from both sides
• Government’s case – Presentation of evidence and witness testimony, cross examination by defense
• Defense case (if any)
• Government’s rebuttal case (only if disputing evidence presented in the Defense case)
• Closing arguments
• Judge’s legal instructions
• Jury deliberations
• Verdict

At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we prepare rigorously for trial. Our litigators will present a compelling case in your defense, challenging the prosecution’s evidence and protecting your rights throughout the proceedings. As a Firm, we try several cases a year in federal and state courts across the United States and are equipped to handle everything from a traffic 

5. Sentencing (if convicted)

If you are found guilty, a separate sentencing hearing will be held. Factors that can influence sentencing include:

• The charge that you were convicted of, including
  • The specific drug, and
  •  Quantity/weight of drug
• Your criminal history

Your Next Steps in Securing Legal Representation

When facing drug crime charges, selecting the right attorney can make a crucial difference in the outcome of your case. At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we understand the gravity of your situation and the importance of acting quickly. Here’s how to move forward in securing the aggressive legal representation you need:

1. Schedule Immediate Consultations: Don’t wait to start building your defense. Contact criminal defense attorneys like those at our firm immediately. At The Fast Law Firm, we offer same day, free consultations to assess your case and start strategizing your defense right away.
2. Prepare Key Questions: Before meeting with your potential attorneys, prepare a list of essential questions, such as their specific experience with drug crime cases and how they approach defense strategies.
3. Assess Their Experience and Track Record: Look for attorneys with a proven track record in drug crime defense. We have a proven track record of helping numerous clients across New York courts.
4. Evaluate Communication and Accessibility: You need an attorney who communicates clearly and remains accessible throughout your case. During consultations, please pay attention to how well the lawyer explains legal concepts and whether they seem committed to keeping you informed.
5. Discuss Fee Structures Upfront: Be clear about fee structures and payment expectations. We discuss payment options that work for your situation.
6. Trust Your Instincts: You should find an attorney you feel confident in and comfortable with. Your lawyer should inspire trust and demonstrate a genuine commitment to fighting for your rights.
7. Act Fast: Time is critical in drug crime cases. Evidence can disappear, and prosecution strategies can solidify quickly. The sooner you secure representation, the stronger your defense can be.

Take Charge of Your Future – Contact Us Today

Facing criminal charges demands immediate action. At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we combine aggressive defense strategies with a proven track record in New York courts. Whether challenging evidence, negotiating plea deals, or taking cases to trial, we help you.  

Time is critical, and the prosecution is building its case while you wait. Your first step toward a strong defense is a confidential consultation, where we’ll assess your case and outline a tailored strategy. Don’t let delays weaken your position.

Your future is at stake. Trust The Fast Law Firm, P.C. to stand with you—call now, and let us start building your defense today.