Robbery Lawyer New York — Defending Charges in Manhattan Courts
Robbery in New York County (Manhattan) is a serious felony under New York Penal Law § 160.00, carrying potential state prison time. If you are facing robbery charges at the New York County Supreme Court or Criminal Court, securing a skilled robbery lawyer in New York is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery in New York is defined in Penal Law Article 160 as forcibly stealing property. The severity, and whether you need a robbery attorney in New York, depends on factors like the use of a weapon, physical injury, or if the robbery occurred in a dwelling. The statute outlines degrees from third-degree robbery (a class D felony) to first-degree robbery (a class B violent felony).
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings extensive experience to complex criminal cases like robbery. We understand the high stakes in Manhattan courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s robbery statutes, see New York Penal Law § 160.00 (official New York State Senate site). For court procedures and information, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
handling a Robbery Case in Manhattan
A key local procedural fact is that New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most non-violent felonies, but first-degree robbery and other violent felonies remain bail-eligible. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office pursues robbery charges aggressively, especially for incidents involving weapons or occurring on the subway system. An experienced robbery law firm in New York can challenge the evidence of “forcible stealing” or identity.
- Arraignment: You will be arraigned in New York County Criminal Court (for misdemeanors) or Supreme Court (for felonies) shortly after arrest, where charges are formally read.
- Bail Argument: Your attorney will argue for release on your own recognizance or reasonable bail, considering the 2020 reforms and the specific allegations.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your defense team will obtain all evidence (complaints, videos, witness statements) and conduct an independent investigation.
- Motion Practice: Filing pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges can be a key stage.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your attorney will negotiate with the DA for a reduction or proceed to a jury trial in Supreme Court if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in New York
In New York County (Manhattan), robbery penalties range from a class D non-violent felony to a class B violent felony, with sentences from probation to 25 years in prison.
| Offense (NY Penal Law) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Post-Release Supervision |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery in the Third Degree (§ 160.05) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Yes, up to 3 years |
| Robbery in the Second Degree (§ 160.10) | Class C Violent Felony | 3.5 to 15 years | Up to $5,000 | Yes, 2.5 to 5 years |
| Robbery in the First Degree (§ 160.15) | Class B Violent Felony | 5 to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Yes, 2.5 to 5 years |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Robbery Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of a criminal case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for our clients by building strong, evidence-based defenses.
Our Approach to Robbery Cases
Our robbery defense strategy begins the moment you contact us. We immediately work to secure your release and then meticulously dissect the prosecution’s case. We examine police procedures, witness credibility, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence. In Manhattan, we have handled a wide array of felony cases. Firm-wide, we have over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Robbery Defense Representation
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 | Local: (838) 292-0003
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients facing charges at the New York County Supreme Court at 60 Centre Street. We are accessible via all major subway lines, PATH, and Metro-North. We provide robbery lawyer services near Manhattan neighborhoods 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.
Robbery Defense FAQs
What is the difference between robbery and theft in New York?
Yes, there is a major difference. Theft (larceny) involves taking property without force. Robbery, defined under Penal Law § 160.00, is forcible stealing. The use or threat of immediate physical force is what elevates a theft to a robbery, making it a felony.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the facts and your criminal history. While robbery is a felony, a skilled robbery attorney in New York may negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge like attempted robbery or petit larceny, especially if the evidence of force is weak or you are a first-time offender.
What are the defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal, claim of right (believing the property was yours), or that the alleged force did not meet the legal standard. An attorney will investigate to find the strongest defense for your situation.
How long does a robbery case take in Manhattan?
A robbery case can take from several months to over a year. Misdemeanor cases move faster under CPL § 30.30. Felony cases in Supreme Court involve grand jury indictments and more complex procedures, often taking 6-18 months to reach resolution either by plea or trial.
Should I speak to the police if I’m accused of robbery?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you, and investigators are trained to obtain statements that can hurt your case.
Related Pages: For other legal services in New York County, see our Criminal Defense Lawyer page or our Federal Criminal Lawyer page. For an overview of our New York practice, visit our New York Criminal Defense hub.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.