St. Louis drug charge lawyer fighting for your record

Defending all types of drug offenses

From possession to trafficking, we take on tough cases

The Law Offices of Stephen A. Zarky defends clients in Missouri drug cases across St. Louis City and County, St. Charles, Jefferson, and Franklin. As a drug possession attorney in St. Louis, Stephen handles simple possession of marijuana or prescription pills, felony possession of controlled substances, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking. Any drug conviction can affect jobs, housing, and immigration status. The goal is clear outcomes that protect your future through dismissals, reductions, or alternatives like treatment. Many people start with a free consultation to review the stop, the search, and next steps before the first court date.

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Missouri drug laws overview

What charges mean and how penalties are set

Missouri classifies controlled substances by schedules, and penalties depend on the substance, amount, and whether the State claims intent to distribute. Possession of many controlled substances can be charged as a felony with the potential for prison time. Adult possession of a limited amount of marijuana is legal under Missouri law, but possession above the limit or any unauthorized sale can still lead to criminal charges. Allegations of distribution or trafficking carry much higher penalties and may include mandatory prison if certain thresholds are met. If your case arose from a traffic stop in St. Louis County or St. Charles, Stephen will walk you through how local courts handle these matters and what to expect at each setting.

How Stephen attacks drug charges

Uncovering illegal searches, weak proof, and better outcomes

01.

Illegal Search And Seizure

How did police find the substance. Stephen challenges stops, detentions, and searches that lack valid legal grounds. If a search is unlawful, the evidence can be suppressed.

02.

Proving Possession

The State must tie the substance to you. In cars or shared homes, constructive possession is often disputed. Stephen presses the government to prove knowledge and control.

03.

Lab Analysis And Chain Of Custody

The prosecution must prove the item is an illegal drug. Stephen demands complete lab reports and chain of custody records and exposes errors or contamination.

04.

Mitigation And Treatment Options

For first-time or nonviolent cases, treatment programs and drug court can avoid convictions or jail. Stephen advocates for plans that address health needs while protecting your record.

Drug-related traffic stops sometimes overlap with DWI defense when officers allege impairment by medication or other substances. Coordinating both issues can protect your license and limit damaging admissions.

Please consider Stephen as your lawyer for any of your legal needs. He communicates with you actively. Thoroughly explains all processes concerning your case also guarantees and provides the best outcome concerning your situation. He’s truly amazing I’ve referred him to everyone I know and will continue to use him as representation for any legal matter that comes up in the future.

I give steven a 5.0+ more he is a goodblawyer. The only lawyer i have ever hired and will be the only one i will go to. He is understanding in alot of situations and from what i have seen from meeting up with him to pay him he will help people. Thanks steven.

Best Attorney around!! He will fight hard and smart for you. He helped my family member prove her innocence. I am so grateful to Stephen for everything he's done and would recommend him as one of the best choices for an attorney in St Louis.

Excellent lawyer handle my case with Care I would recommend him to anyone he helped me out I thank you so much Stephen A. Zarky

This guy is absolutely amazing very professional very trust worthy ,Go beyond to make sure he fight and do what is right for your case . He has some type of special gift that he knows what is right. I’m very grateful and Thankful For Him. Thank you 🙏🏽 God Bless☺️

Stephen was the first attorney I've ever needed. I'm not gonna lie, I had my doubts about him all the way until my hearing, but he managed to work out a great deal with the prosecutor. I never should have doubted him. I never write reviews, but I'll make the exception for Stephen. He's that good, and he's definitely worth the money.
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Results and reviews

Placement for verified outcomes and client testimonials

Questions people ask about drug charges

Practical answers for the first hearing and beyond

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  • Will I go to jail for drug possession in Missouri?

    It depends on the level of the charge, your record, and the facts. Many first-time offenders avoid jail with strong advocacy, treatment, or drug court.

  • Is marijuana possession a felony in Missouri now?

    Adults may lawfully possess limited amounts of marijuana. Over the limit or any unauthorized sale can still lead to criminal charges. Stephen reviews the facts to see if the State overcharged the case.

  • Do I need a lawyer for a first-time drug charge in St. Louis?

    Yes. Early legal help can secure treatment options, challenge a search, or reduce a felony to a lesser offense. The sooner you get counsel, the better the options tend to be.

People comparing options often look at broader criminal defense strategies to understand motions, suppression hearings, and trial timelines in our local courts.                                                               

Protect your future

Call now to defend your rights and your record

A drug conviction can follow you for years. The Law Offices of Stephen A. Zarky will scrutinize every detail of the stop, the search, and the lab work to build a defense that fits your life and goals. Call 314-852-5995 or send a message for fast help and clear next steps.