Best New York Criminal Defense Lawyers

Last Updated: 06/09/2023

Find top-rated New York criminal defense attorneys to protect your rights when facing criminal charges.

The 17 Best New York Criminal Defense Lawyers

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List of the Top 17 New York Criminal Defense Attorneys

The Blanch Law Firm
420 Lexington Avenue Suite 1402 POB 1057, New York, NY 10170, USA

The Blanch Law Firm is an NYC criminal defense law firm with a presence in every state and federal court. They have a depth of experience unmatched among other defense firms, fighting for each client's case. The aim is to dismiss charges and win cases outright without plea bargaining. Their intense focus on federal crimes ensures that their legal practice is up-to-date with new developments in criminal law that affect defendants.

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Julie Rendelman is a New York City criminal defense lawyer who helps people accused of crimes like assault, theft, and drunk driving. She has over 10 years of experience and offers free consultations. Julie aims to get charges reduced or dismissed. Her office is located in Midtown Manhattan.

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Greco Neyland Attorney at Law
535 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10017, United States

Greco Neyland, PC, provides help for criminal charges in NYC and surrounding areas. Ex-prosecutors and defense attorneys handle white-collar, drug, domestic violence, and money laundering crimes. They provide 24/7 support and free consultations.

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Tilem & Associates, PC
188 E Post Rd, White Plains, NY 10601, USA

Tilem & Associates, PC provides legal services in criminal defense, personal injury, family law, wills, and more. Our experienced New York lawyers build strong cases and develop winning strategies for the best results. Call for a free consultation.

Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC
299 Broadway Suite 1400, New York, NY 10007, United States

Located in NYC, Tsigler Law offers expert criminal defense services delivering top-notch results. With years of experience and a 24/7 consultation policy, the firm's lawyers know how to win cases. Services include assault, drug crimes, DWI, and false arrest. Provides confidential consultations.

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Law Offices of Victor Knapp
125-10 Queens Blvd #323, Kew Gardens, NY 11415, USA

Victor Knapp, a top Queens, NY criminal defense attorney. He provides professional legal services with affordable pricing. The attorney defends clients in complex cases and gets favorable outcomes. He handles criminal charges, family issues, and business problems.

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Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law

Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law provides experienced criminal defense. The lawyers handle legal matters like felonies and misdemeanors in New Jersey and New York. They offer strong advocacy to achieve the best outcomes for each client.

Stahl Criminal Defense Lawyers
700 White Plains Rd #237, Scarsdale, NY 10583, United States

Stahl Gasiorowski Criminal Defense Lawyers P.C. provides criminal defense in New Jersey and New York. The firm's skilled attorneys fight for clients facing investigations, arrests, or indictments. They have decades of experience defending white-collar crimes and complex federal cases. The dedicated legal team works to protect clients' rights and liberties.

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Law Office of Luke Scardigno
123-60 83rd Ave Suite 1T, Queens, NY 11415, United States

The Law Office of Luke Scardigno is a criminal defense law firm based in Queens, NYC. Attorney Luke Scardigno has decades of experience defending clients against criminal charges. He handles cases such as DWI, domestic violence, shoplifting, and DMV facial recognition. Mr. Scardigno offers personal attention and strong defense to each client. His office is located across from the Queens County Criminal Courthouse in Kew Gardens. Free consultations and affordable payment plans are available.

New York Criminal Defense Lawyer-Law Office Of Gina M Wicik

Law Office Of Gina M. Wicik is a top-rated criminal defense law firm in New York City. The attorney provides customized legal defense for criminal charges, DUI/DWI, and personal injury cases. Their NYC lawyers have over a decade of experience fighting to protect clients' rights.

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Michael Paul, Attorney at Law
Lower Level Left, 3507 90th St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA

Michael Paul is a criminal defense attorney based in Queens, New York. His law firm helps individuals and businesses defend themselves against criminal charges such as DWI/DUI, drug offenses, theft, and assault.

Michael has over 25 years of experience representing clients in Criminal Court and Supreme Court in Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, and Manhattan. He is known for his aggressive advocacy and personal attention to each case. Clients appreciate that Michael takes the time to explain the legal process and options thoroughly.

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Law Office of Carl Spector

The Law Offices of Carl Spector defends people charged with crimes in New Jersey. Attorney Carl Spector helps clients charged with shoplifting, traffic tickets, assault, and more. He understands both sides since he was a prosecutor. The firm serves people across New Jersey from its office in Glen Rock. Mr. Spector has over 30 years of experience.

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Sullivan & Brill, LLP
115 Broadway 17th floor, New York, NY 10006, United States

Sullivan & Brill is a criminal defense law firm with offices in New York City, Long Island, Kings, Bronx, Newark, and San Juan. Experienced attorneys defend against fraud, drugs, sex crimes, domestic violence, and DWI/DUI. 20+ years of experience defending those accused of state and federal crimes. Previous clients have praised professionalism and results.

Michael A. Arbeit, P.C
23 S Main St #30, Freeport, NY 11520, USA

Michael A. Arbeit, P.C. is a New York criminal defense and traffic ticket law firm that provides all matters from initial intake to final resolution. Mr. Arbeit has been practicing law for over 30 years and defends clients throughout Long Island and the NYC metro area with integrity and professionalism.

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Laurence A. Silverman & Associates
537 E Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station, NY 11746, United States

Laurence A. Silverman & Associates is a Long Island law firm offering criminal defense and family law services. Specialize in domestic violence, drug crimes, probation/parole violations, murder, and sex crimes. Provide free consultations.

Scott Cerbin
254 36th St Suite C659, Brooklyn, NY 11232, USA

Scott Cerbin Criminal Defense provides criminal defense and civil rights services in Brooklyn, NY. Free consultations are available 24/7. 15+ years' experience representing clients facing criminal charges.

Spodek Law Group P.C.
85 Broad St 17th floor, New York, NY 10004, United States

New York federal criminal lawyers provide top-notch legal defense for federal charges nationwide. Led by renowned Manhattan attorney Todd Spodek, the firm handles the most complex cases. They offer affordable representation to maximize favorable verdicts.

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Understanding Criminal Defense: An Overview

When facing criminal charges, it is crucial to understand your rights and options. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is key to building an effective defense. This guide provides an overview of criminal defense and what to expect when navigating the criminal justice system.

What is Criminal Defense?

Criminal defense refers to the advocacy and legal representation for those charged with a crime. A criminal defense lawyer helps understand the charges, builds a strong defense, and negotiates reduced penalties or dismissals. They act as an intermediary between the accused and the prosecutor representing the state.

Defense lawyers handle cases in both state and federal courts . They defend clients against misdemeanors, felonies, and other criminal offenses. Their goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for the accused.

Key Players in a Criminal Case

In addition to the defense attorney and prosecutor, several other key figures play a role in criminal cases:

  • Judge: Presides over trial proceedings and hearings. Determines admissibility of evidence, gives instructions to the jury, and hands down the final sentence upon conviction.
  • Law enforcement: Investigates crimes, gathers evidence, arrests, and testifies during court proceedings.
  • Defendant: The person or party facing criminal charges and accused of committing a crime.
  • Witnesses: Individuals who provide testimony for a case's prosecution or defense side.
  • Jury: Panel of impartial peers who determine guilt or innocence based on evidence and arguments presented in court.

Stages of a Criminal Case

Criminal cases typically move through the following stages:

Arrest and Charging

Police arrest if they have probable cause. The prosecutor then files formal charges. At the initial appearance, bail terms and conditions are often set.

Plea Bargaining

Many cases end through plea bargains between the defense and prosecutor before trial. Defendants plead guilty in exchange for lesser charges or lighter sentencing.

Motions and Hearings

Defense attorneys may file motions challenging evidence or procedures leading up to trial. Evidentiary hearings take place to settle these motions.

Trial

The case goes to a bench or jury trial if no plea deal is reached. Both sides present evidence and make arguments before a verdict is reached.

Sentencing

The judge determines penalties and sentencing terms at a separate hearing if convicted. Fines, probation, incarceration, or combinations may apply depending on the case.

The Importance of Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal prosecution can be an intimidating and high-stakes ordeal. Having knowledgeable legal representation is key to developing an effective defense strategy. Here are some top reasons it’s essential to hire a criminal defense attorney:

Deep Knowledge of Criminal Law

The criminal justice framework comprises complex state and federal laws and court rules. Most defendants don’t fully grasp the intricacies involved. A skilled defense lawyer leverages their expertise to protect clients’ rights through every phase.

Ability to Identify Weaknesses

A good attorney can review police reports, analyze evidence, and identify inconsistencies. Spotting legal holes allows charges to be reduced or dismissed pre-trial.

Effective Defense Planning and Execution

Seasoned lawyers craft defense theories, challenge questionable evidence, locate witnesses, and deliver compelling arguments. Their mastery of trial procedures leads to optimal outcomes.

Guidance on Legal Strategy

The lawyer strategically advises whether to plea bargain or take a case trial. If negotiating with prosecutors, they leverage their skills to secure the best deal possible. These high-stakes decisions often dictate the case’s final result.

Sentencing Mitigation

For clients convicted of crimes, skilled counsel makes a compelling case for reduced sentencing. This can involve highlighting mitigating circumstances, providing character references, or appealing judicial discretion.

In summary, a proficient criminal defense lawyer is an invaluable guide through the complex legal maze. Their expertise can make all the difference.

How to Choose the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer

Selecting the right criminal defense attorney is no easy task. Clients face heavy fines, probation terms, and even years behind bars. Building an air-tight case with the best lawyer improves outcomes. Use these tips when evaluating attorneys:

Verify Qualifications and Licensing

Only hire practicing lawyers with a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited law school. Confirm they hold a valid state license to practice law. Court appointments and Marine Corps training indicate distinguished criminal attorneys.

Assess Relevant Expertise

Seeking counsel well-versed in state or federal criminal law is paramount. Those certified as specialists in criminal trial or defense law prove exemplary qualifications. High Super Lawyer and AV Preeminent attorney ratings also signify expertise.

Examine Track Record and Case History

The ideal attorney has a proven history of favorable verdicts in comparable criminal cases. Request specific case examples and personal references from past clients. High acquittal and dismissal rates reflect positively.

Gauge Trial Ability and Style

Understand how adept they are in the courtroom. Do they excel at cross-examining, delivering opening/closing arguments, persuading judges and juries? Also, assess their manner and how clients describe their approach.

Common Types of Criminal Cases and Defense Strategies

Criminal cases span a broad spectrum, from non-violent misdemeanors to major felonies. Common charges include:

Drug Charges

Drug cases range from possession to trafficking and distribution felonies. The defense often involves questioning the legitimacy of searches or drug testing accuracy. Attorneys also challenge witnesses’ credibility and leverage sentencing options.

DUI Cases

For driving under the influence, defenses dispute blood alcohol content readings and sobriety test protocols. Lawyers may argue clients weren’t driving the vehicle when arrested. Or challenge the technical calibrating processes of breathalyzers.

White Collar Crimes

Tax evasion, embezzlement, money laundering, and fraud fall under white-collar categories. Attorneys dispute paper trails or challenge witnesses’ accounts to undermine prosecution arguments.

Sex Crimes

Accused sex offenders often claim sexual acts were consensual. Lawyers highlight contradictory statements, credibility issues with witnesses/victims, and evidentiary timelines. Reduced sentencing remains the likely goal.

In all cases, lawyers exploit every available angle and argument when mounting a vigorous defense.

The Impact of Criminal Convictions and How to Fight Them

The implications of having a permanent criminal record extend far beyond fines and jail time served. Ongoing stigma and restrictions present marked barriers moving forward. Skilled lawyers aim to avoid undeserved convictions and mitigate penalties.

Long-Term Effects of Criminal Convictions

Beyond reputational damage, those with felony or misdemeanor convictions face:

  • Lost voting and gun ownership rights
  • Barriers accessing jobs, housing, loans
  • Restricted international travel
  • Family law and child custody limitations
  • Social stigma and community exclusion

How Criminal Defense Lawyers Fight Convictions

To help clients avoid unfair, inaccurate convictions, lawyers leverage:

  • Case dismissal motions highlighting procedural technicalities
  • Plea deals to negotiate dropped or reduced charges
  • Sentencing reductions through circumstance mitigation
  • Post-conviction relief and record expungement processes
  • Appeals arguments focused on legal/judicial errors

Through each phase, defense counsel fights to protect defendants’ records, rights, and freedoms for life beyond a case. Avoiding unjust outcomes remains the top priority.

Skilled criminal defense lawyers understand all case complexities and the consequences at stake. Their expertise can mean the difference between smooth societal reintegration or blocked opportunities.