Felony Charges In New York State Lawyer | SRIS, P.C.
Felony Charges In New York State Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Felony charges in New York State are serious offenses classified from Class E to Class A-I, carrying potential prison sentences from over one year to life. In New York County (Manhattan), these cases are heard in the Supreme Court Criminal Term. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Felony Charges In New York State
Felony charges in New York State are defined by the New York Penal Law (PEN). The classification system ranges from Class E (the least severe) to Class A-I (the most severe), with penalties escalating accordingly. A felony conviction can result in state prison time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and civil rights.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on complex criminal defense. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in cases involving financial evidence or technical details.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New York State Senate website. For court-specific procedures in Manhattan, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for Felony Charges In New York State
In New York County (Manhattan), felony charges in New York State begin with an arrest and arraignment in Criminal Court. The case is then presented to a grand jury for indictment. If indicted, the case is transferred to the New York County Supreme Court Criminal Term for all further proceedings, including pre-trial hearings and potential trial. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most non-violent felonies, meaning many defendants are released on their own recognizance or with non-monetary conditions.
- Arraignment & Initial Release: You will be arraigned in New York County Criminal Court. Under bail reform, release is likely for many non-violent felonies.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The District Attorney’s Office will present evidence to a secret grand jury to secure an indictment.
- Supreme Court Arraignment: If indicted, you will be arraigned again in the Supreme Court Criminal Term, where pleas are entered.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Hearings: Your attorney will file motions to challenge evidence (suppression hearings) or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Disposition: Following a conviction or plea, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines and arguments from both sides.
Potential Penalties for Felony Charges In New York State
In New York County (Manhattan), felony charges in New York State carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, probation, and significant fines, with the exact range determined by the felony class and specific offense.
| Felony Class | Prison Sentence Range | Potential Fine | Post-Release Supervision |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class E Felony | 1 to 4 years | Up to $5,000 (or double gain from crime) | Mandatory period of Post-Release Supervision (PRS) |
| Class D Felony | 2 to 7 years | Up to $5,000 (or double gain from crime) | Mandatory PRS |
| Class C Felony | 3.5 to 15 years | Up to $15,000 (or double gain from crime) | Mandatory PRS |
| Class B Felony | 5 to 25 years | Up to $30,000 (or double gain from crime) | Mandatory PRS |
| Class A-II Felony | 3 to 8 years to life | Up to $50,000 (or double gain from crime) | Mandatory PRS (if released) |
| Class A-I Felony | 15 years to life | Up to $100,000 (or double gain from crime) | Mandatory PRS (if released) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Serious Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to each case. The firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects its commitment to client defense. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Case Results in New York
SRIS actively practices in New York. While specific local counts are proprietary, firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes (dismissals, not guilty verdicts, or charge reductions).
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. | New York Location
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Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We provide representation for individuals throughout Manhattan, including 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. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747; all meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in New York?
The key difference is the potential jail time. A misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of up to one year in a local jail. Felony charges in New York State are punishable by a state prison sentence of over one year, up to life for the most serious Class A-I felonies.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in New York?
It depends. Prosecutors may offer a plea to a lesser charge, sometimes a misdemeanor, in exchange for a guilty plea. This is often a strategic goal of defense negotiations. Success depends on the case facts, your history, the strength of the evidence, and the skill of your Felony Charges In New York State Attorney.
What is an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD)?
An ACD is a common disposition for eligible first-time offenders. The case is adjourned for 6 to 12 months. If you are not arrested during that period, the charges are automatically dismissed and sealed. It is not a conviction and is often available for certain non-violent felonies.
Do I need a local New York County attorney for a felony charge?
Yes. An attorney familiar with the New York County Supreme Court, the local judges, and the practices of the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office can handle the system more effectively. A Felony Charges In New York State Law Firm with local experience understands procedural nuances that can impact your case.
What happens after a felony arraignment in New York?
After arraignment in Criminal Court, the case is presented to a grand jury. If the grand jury votes to indict, the case is transferred to the Supreme Court for all further proceedings, including pre-trial hearings, motions, and potential trial. Your attorney will begin building your defense immediately after arraignment.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New York Criminal Defense hub page. You may also find our pages for Kings County (Brooklyn) and Manhattan Family Law useful.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your situation, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Under N.Y. Bus. Corp. Law § 101, state law governs this practice area.