Who are the best drug crime lawyers in Buffalo?

Robert Friedman and Michael Ranzenhofer of Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC are recognized as leading drug crime defense lawyers in Buffalo. With decades of criminal defense experience, they provide an aggressive and strategic defense for individuals facing all levels of state and federal drug charges, from simple possession to major trafficking.

What is the difference between drug possession and possession with intent to sell?

The difference lies in the evidence. Simple possession (CPCS 7th) is possessing any amount of a controlled substance for personal use. Possession with intent to sell is a more serious felony charge. Intent can be inferred from the quantity of the drugs, the way they are packaged (e.g., in individual bags), the presence of scales, large amounts of cash, or police observation of transactions.

What is 'constructive possession'?

'Constructive possession' is a legal theory used when drugs are not found on your person. The prosecution must prove that you exercised 'dominion and control' over the area where the drugs were found. This is common in car and apartment cases, and it is a highly defensible element of a drug charge.

What is the Automobile Presumption in New York?

New York law includes a legal presumption that if illegal drugs are found in a car, every person in that car is presumed to be in knowing possession of them. This makes it easier for prosecutors to charge every passenger, but it is a rebuttable presumption that a skilled defense attorney can challenge.

What should I do if the police want to search my car or home?

You should never consent to a search of your property. Politely but firmly state, 'Officer, I do not consent to a search.' The police generally need a search warrant or probable cause plus an exception to the warrant rule to legally search your property. Consenting to a search waives your Fourth Amendment rights and makes it much harder for your attorney to defend you.

What happens if I'm arrested for a drug crime?

You should immediately invoke your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Do not answer any questions from the police without your lawyer present. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Contacting a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible is the most important step you can take to protect your rights.

What is a motion to suppress evidence?

A motion to suppress is one of the most powerful tools in drug crime defense. Your attorney files this motion to ask the judge to exclude evidence that was obtained through an illegal search or seizure in violation of your Fourth Amendment rights. If the motion is granted and the drug evidence is suppressed, the prosecution's case is often dismissed.

Can I go to Drug Court instead of jail?

Yes, for many non-violent drug offenders, Drug Court or other judicial diversion programs are an option. These programs focus on treatment and rehabilitation rather than incarceration. Upon successful completion of the program, the original criminal charges may be reduced or even dismissed. An attorney can advocate for your admission into one of these programs.

Do I need a lawyer for my drug charge in Buffalo?

Yes, hiring an experienced drug crime lawyer is absolutely critical. A drug conviction can have lifelong consequences, including a criminal record, jail or prison time, and difficulty finding employment. An attorney at Friedman & Ranzenhofer will meticulously analyze the legality of the police conduct, challenge the evidence, and fight to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that's a dismissal, a favorable plea, or an acquittal at trial.

Buffalo Lawyers / Buffalo Drug Crime Lawyers

Buffalo Drug Crime Lawyers

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys Providing Defense Against Drug Charges in New York

Buffalo Drug Crime Lawyers

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys Providing Defense Against Drug Charges in New York

Buffalo Drug Crime Lawyers

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys Providing Defense Against Drug Charges in New York

New York County prosecutors take drug crimes very seriously, and if you’ve been caught in possession of narcotics or trafficking in them (such as marijuana, cocaine or prescription drugs), you’re looking at an extremely risky legal situation that could cost you a lot of money – and can definitely land you in jail.

Michael Ranzenhofer

Justin Friedman

Let Our 71 years of Experience Work For You

Were you or a loved one hurt due to the negligence of someone else? Our experienced Buffalo lawyers have been dedicated to serving the Western New York community we know and love. Allow us to help you the same way we’ve been helping our community for decades. We’re here for you. Schedule a consultation

Testimonials See why our clients love us. Read more → Schedule a consultation today

Mr. Ranzenhofer and his attorneys were great! My case was handled quickly and I got a great result – $300,000. I fell at my doctor’s office, so I knew it was a hard case. Mr. Ranzenhofer developed a strategy that got me a great result. I highly recommend Mr. Ranzenhofer and his team of attorneys.

– Christine Rush

Reasonable / Professional / Personable … Very nice man to speak to … He helped me feel safe and took away my fear in my legal situation. If or when needed he is ready to jump in and take over. Thank you, Carol

– Carol Czosnyka

We were treated in a respectful, professional and helpful manner while preparing our wills, healthcare proxies and power of attorney. Mr. Friedman took as much time as we needed to answer all of our questions and concerns. His staff was friendly and efficient. We highly recommend him.

– John

Highly recommended…Sam handled a case for me with a buffalo tow truck Company, we won our case and a judgment. Sam was highly professional knowledgeable and effective. He knows the local laws and how to get successful outcomes!

– Mark

I consulted with Justin Friedman in an effort to obtain reimbursement following damage to my personal property. Justin was diligent, tenacious, professional, and clearly dedicated to assisting me, all of which led to a very positive outcome. I was very impressed with his work and I highly recommend his office.

– Lisa Kilanowski

New York County prosecutors take drug crimes very seriously, and if you’ve been caught in possession of narcotics or trafficking in them (such as marijuana, cocaine or prescription drugs), you’re looking at an extremely risky legal situation that could cost you a lot of money – and can definitely land you in jail.

If you’ve been charged with a drug crime in Buffalo, don’t wait to speak with our experienced drug crime attorneys to safeguard your rights. At Friedman & Ranzenhofer, we are some of Buffalo’s most experienced criminal defense attorneys – we are former prosecutors with decades of experience, and hundreds of criminal cases under our belts. You’re not likely to find a stronger team to put in your corner when it comes to fighting the charges against you. Give our Buffalo drug crime lawyers a call – it’s free.

Drug Crimes & Charges We Can Assist With:

221.05 – Unlawful Possession of Marijuana
221.10 – Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Fifth Degree -Penalty for Criminal Possession of Marijuana 5th Degree
221.15 – Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Fourth Degree
221.20 – Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Third Degree
221.25 – Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Second Degree
221.30 – Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the First Degree
221.35 – Criminal Sale of Marijuana in the Fifth Degree–Penalty for the Criminal Sale of Marijuana in the 5th Degree
221.40 – Criminal Sale of Marijuana in the Fourth Degree
221.45 – Criminal Sale of Marijuana in the Third Degree
221.50 – Criminal Sale of Marijuana in the Second Degree
221.55 – Criminal Sale of Marijuana in the First Degree
22.03 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree –Penalty for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 7th Degree
220.06 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree–Penalty for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 5th Degree
220.09 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree
220.6 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree
220.18 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree
220.21 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree
220.25 – Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance; Presumption
220.28 – Use of a Child to Commit a Controlled Substance Offense
220.31 – Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree
220.34 – Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree
220.39 – Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree
220.41 – Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree
220.43 – Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree
220.44 – Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance In or Near School Grounds
220.45 – Criminally Possessing a Hypodermic Instrument
220.46 – Criminal Injection of a Narcotic Drug
220.48 – Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance to a Child
220.50 – Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the Second Degree –Penalty for Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the 2nd Degree
220.55 – Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the First Degree
220.60 – Criminal Possession of Precursors of Controlled Substances
220.65 – Criminal Sale of a Prescription for a Controlled Substance
220.77 – Operating as a Major Trafficker
220.78 – Witness or Victim of Drug or Alcohol Overdose

Our Buffalo Drug Crime Lawyers Are Former Prosecutors

We know that what matters in any criminal case is evidence, and because we’ve built these cases as prosecutors, we know how to attack the evidence that the prosecution will bring. We start at the beginning and we work forward from there. For instance:

Were you searched during a traffic stop?

Was the stop legal?

Was the search legal?

Were there other people present, and who witnessed these events?

What testing methods were employed? Is all equipment properly calibrated and maintained? Are personnel at testing facilities properly certified and trained?

Did police follow correct procedures during the arrest? Did police follow correct procedures during the interrogation? Did police read you your Miranda warnings?

And that’s just the start. Our Lawyers will examine the evidence, interview witnesses, and build the case you need to fight back.

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Experienced Buffalo Drug Crime Lawyers Providing Strong Defense Against Drug Charges

At Friedman & Ranzenhofer, we know that drug cases, especially when young people are involved, often call for more than a strong legal defense. We have families too, and when a family member is struggling, we want to help. If you or your loved one can benefit from substance abuse treatment or other forms of counseling, we can help you find programs that meet your needs. In many cases, participation in voluntary treatment can also help the court view your case more favorably. For many of our clients, fighting these charges in court is simply the right thing to do. For others, working with the court to develop alternative approaches that help our client remain in the community, on the job, and with their family is the best option. We are your defense consultants, and we work to achieve the outcome that fits your needs, whether that means a courtroom fight or a negotiated resolution. You can trust our Buffalo drug crime lawyers to put your needs first.

If you or a loved one is facing drug charges in New York, call our Buffalo drug crime lawyers for dedicated representation. Let our experience work for you.

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Client Reviews

“Friedman & Ranzenhofer provided prompt, courteous and professional assistance regarding a current legal issue. We have used the services of this firm repeatedly because of their consistent high quality service levels.” – Ed Berowski