criminal lawyer in New York

I’ve Just Been Charged — What Happens to Me Now?

You’re likely wondering, “What happens to me now?”

Direct answer: Being charged with a crime in New York can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. From the moment of arrest, you’re entering a complex legal process that can feel impossible to navigate alone. The initial steps typically involve booking, arraignment, and setting bail. The choices you make right now, and the information you provide (or don’t provide) to law enforcement, can significantly impact the outcome of your case. It’s common to feel stressed, confused, and anxious about your future, including potential jail time, fines, or a criminal record.

Reassurance: We understand the immense pressure you’re under. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we’re here to help you comprehend each stage of the process, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible resolution. You don’t have to face this challenge by yourself; getting informed legal support early is your strongest move.

What the Law Says in New York

What do the laws in New York actually say about your situation?

New York’s criminal justice system is governed by a detailed Penal Law, covering everything from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Penalties vary widely depending on the nature of the crime, prior offenses, and other circumstances. For instance, a misdemeanor might lead to up to a year in jail, while a felony conviction can result in significant prison sentences, substantial fines, and long-term consequences that impact your employment, housing, and civil liberties. Let’s look at some general categories of offenses and their potential repercussions. While specific charges require a detailed review, understanding the potential severity helps prepare you.
Common Criminal Offenses in New York:
* Misdemeanors: Generally classified as Class A or Class B. Class A misdemeanors can carry up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000. Class B misdemeanors can result in up to three months in jail and/or a fine up to $500. Examples include petty larceny, simple assault, and some drug possession charges.
* Felonies: Categorized from Class A-I (most serious) down to Class E (least serious). Penalties range from state prison sentences of several years to life imprisonment, with fines potentially reaching thousands of dollars. Examples include grand larceny, robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, and various drug trafficking offenses.
* DWI/DUI: Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges in New York carry severe penalties, even for a first offense. These can include fines, license suspension or revocation, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and potential jail time, especially with aggravating factors like high BAC or prior offenses.
* Drug Crimes: New York’s drug laws are complex and depend on the type and quantity of the substance, as well as intent (possession vs. sale/manufacture). Penalties can range from misdemeanors for minor possession to severe felonies for large-scale trafficking, with significant prison terms and fines.
* Violent Crimes: Charges like assault, robbery, and homicide carry the most severe consequences under New York law, including lengthy prison sentences, high fines, and a permanent criminal record.

What You Can Do Today

So, what immediate actions can you take to protect your future?

1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Anything you say can be used against you. Politely inform law enforcement that you wish to speak with your lawyer before answering any questions. Don’t speculate or offer explanations.
2. Contact an Experienced Criminal Lawyer: Reach out to Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. immediately for a confidential case review. Early legal intervention is critical in criminal cases, allowing for a timely investigation, evidence preservation, and strategic defense planning.
3. Document Everything You Remember: Write down all details related to your arrest, the events leading up to it, and any interactions with law enforcement. Include dates, times, names, and any other pertinent information. This can be invaluable to your defense team.

In simple terms: Stay calm, stay silent, and call a lawyer. These three steps are your foundation for a strong defense.

How We Start Building Your Defense

How exactly do Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. approach your defense?

When you engage Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., our first priority is to thoroughly review the specifics of your case. We scrutinize every detail of your arrest, the evidence against you, and the procedures followed by law enforcement. Our team, under the direction of Mr. Sris, brings extensive experience in criminal defense strategies. We analyze police reports, witness statements, and any available video or forensic evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We’ll explore all avenues for defense, from challenging the legality of your arrest or search to negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. Our goal is always to protect your rights, minimize potential penalties, and work toward the most favorable outcome. While there are no matching New York criminal case results in our immediate data, our seasoned approach ensures a robust defense strategy for clients facing similar challenges.