Computer Crime Attorney NY | SRIS, P.C.
Computer Crime Attorney NY — Defending Against Cybercrime Charges in Manhattan
Computer crime charges in New York County (Manhattan) are prosecuted under New York Penal Law and federal statutes, carrying severe penalties including prison time. As a computer crime attorney NY, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for allegations of unauthorized computer access, data theft, and online fraud. Our firm has handled complex cybercrime cases across New York.
New York Computer Crime Laws and Penalties
Computer crimes, often called cybercrimes, are defined under New York Penal Law Article 156. The core statute is New York Penal Law § 156.05, Unauthorized Use of a Computer. This law makes it a crime to use, access, or cause a computer or computer service to be used without authorization. Charges escalate based on the intent and value of loss or damage caused.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how prosecutors in Manhattan build computer crime cases, often involving digital forensics from the NYPD’s Cyber Command or federal agencies.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s computer crime laws, refer to New York Penal Law Article 156 (official New York State Senate). For court procedures in Manhattan, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Local Procedure for Computer Crime Cases in Manhattan
In New York County, computer crime cases may be prosecuted as state crimes in New York Supreme Court or as federal crimes in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York (SDNY). The 2020 bail reform means many non-violent computer offenses may result in release without bail, but the forensic evidence review is critical. A computer crime law firm NY must handle complex discovery involving data logs, IP addresses, and experienced reports.
- Initial Arrest or Summons: You may be arrested or receive a desk appearance ticket (DAT) for misdemeanor computer trespass. Felony charges often follow a grand jury indictment.
- Arraignment: Your first court appearance at 100 Centre Street (Criminal Court) or 500 Pearl Street (Federal Court) where charges are formally read.
- Discovery & Forensics Review: The prosecution must provide all digital evidence. Your attorney will analyze reports from computer forensic experts.
- Pre-Trial Motions: A computer crime lawyer NY may file motions to suppress evidence obtained without a proper warrant or challenge the chain of custody for digital data.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or proceed to trial before a judge or jury.
- Sentencing or Disposition: If convicted, sentencing can range from conditional discharge and restitution to state prison or federal incarceration.
Potential Penalties for Computer Crimes in New York
In New York County (Manhattan), computer crime penalties vary from a violation with no jail time to felony sentences of up to 15 years, plus fines and restitution.
| Offense (NY Penal Law) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unauthorized Use of a Computer (§ 156.05) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | |
| Computer Trespass (§ 156.10) | Class E Felony | 1.5 – 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Restitution, felony record |
| Computer Tampering 4th (§ 156.20) | Class E Felony | 1.5 – 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Restitution, felony record |
| Computer Tampering 1st (§ 156.27) | Class B Felony | 5 – 25 years | Up to $30,000 | Substantial restitution, federal attention |
| Unlawful Duplication (§ 156.30) | Class E Felony | 1.5 – 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Civil liability for damages |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Computer Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to complex cybercrime defense. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides a unique advantage in cases involving financial data, hacking, and digital fraud.
Case Results and Client Outcomes
SRIS actively practices in New York — firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our approach involves collaborating with digital forensic experts to challenge the prosecution’s technical evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Computer Crime Defense Serving Manhattan and Beyond
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients at courts throughout the state, including the New York County Supreme Court in Manhattan. We are accessible via major transit lines and highways. As a computer crime lawyer near Manhattan, we provide defense for clients in Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Computer Crime Attorney NY
What is the most common computer crime charge in New York?
Yes. Unauthorized Use of a Computer under NY Penal Law § 156.05 is a frequent charge. It is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail, and applies when someone uses or accesses a computer without permission.
Can I go to prison for hacking in New York?
It depends on the severity. Simple computer trespass is a Class E felony with a possible 1.5 to 4-year sentence. Aggravated computer tampering can be a Class B felony with a 5 to 25-year prison term. Federal hacking charges under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) carry even longer sentences.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for a cybercrime?
Immediately contact a computer crime attorney NY. Do not speak with law enforcement or investigators without counsel. Preserve any devices or records but do not attempt to delete files, as this can lead to evidence tampering charges.
Is downloading copyrighted material a computer crime?
Yes. Unlawful duplication of computer-related material under NY Penal Law § 156.30 is a Class E felony. This can apply to the unauthorized downloading or distribution of copyrighted software, media, or databases.
What defenses are available against computer crime charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity (someone else used your IP address), authorization or consent, insufficient evidence, and violations of your Fourth Amendment rights during the digital search and seizure.
Do I need a local New York City attorney for a federal computer crime case?
While federal courts have nationwide jurisdiction, having a computer crime law firm NY with attorneys admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York is crucial for understanding local rules, prosecutors, and judges.
For more information, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in Kings County (Brooklyn) and Queens County. For other legal needs in Manhattan, consider our immigration lawyers or business attorneys.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.