White Plains Criminal Defense Lawyers | SRIS, P.C.
White Plains Criminal Defense Lawyers — What Are Your Legal Options?
White Plains criminal defense lawyers from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handle a wide range of charges in Westchester County Court. A criminal conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Our firm has documented results defending clients in White Plains. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your case.
Understanding Criminal Charges in White Plains
In New York, criminal offenses are classified as violations, misdemeanors, or felonies. Misdemeanors, such as petit larceny or third-degree assault, are punishable by up to one year in jail. Felonies, like grand larceny or robbery, carry potential state prison sentences. The specific court you attend depends on the charge and your age, with Westchester County Court handling felonies and the White Plains City Court handling misdemeanors and violations. The procedural rules and potential outcomes differ significantly between these courts.
Last verified: April 2026 | Westchester County Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s criminal statutes, refer to the New York State Senate website. Information about Westchester County courts, including locations and procedures, can be found on the New York State Unified Court System website.
The White Plains Criminal Court Process
The process in White Plains courts follows specific steps. For adults charged with misdemeanors, the case typically begins with an arraignment in White Plains City Court. Felony cases start with a hearing in City Court before potentially moving to Westchester County Court for indictment and trial. Understanding the local docket and the approach of the Westchester County District Attorney’s office is important for building a defense strategy.
- Attend your arraignment to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Your attorney will file pre-trial motions, such as to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Engage in discovery, where the prosecution shares its evidence with the defense.
- Evaluate all options, which may include negotiating a plea or preparing for trial.
- If no plea is reached, proceed to a bench or jury trial to contest the charges.
- If convicted, advocate for the most favorable sentence at the sentencing hearing.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Convictions
In White Plains, criminal penalties vary by the class of the offense and can include incarceration, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense Class | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class A Felony | Felony | Life to 20+ years | Up to $100,000+ | Possible professional license loss | Firearm prohibition, sex offender registration* |
| Class E Felony | Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Possible professional license loss | Firearm prohibition, immigration consequences |
| Class A Misdemeanor | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Possible driver’s license suspension | Criminal record, employment difficulties |
| Violation | Non-criminal | Up to 15 days | Up to $250 | Possible for traffic offenses | Local criminal court record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
*Applies to specific sex offenses.
Our Firm’s Background in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team has a combined legal experience of over 120 years. We focus on building a defense strategy based on the specific facts of your case. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. This experience is applied to cases in White Plains and across New York.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our White Plains criminal defense attorneys work to achieve favorable outcomes for clients. We analyze police reports, challenge evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors. Every case is unique, and we develop a strategy specific to your situation. The goal is to protect your rights and work towards reducing or dismissing the charges you face.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our White Plains Criminal Defense Law Firm
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (716) 250-9835
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients in White Plains and Westchester County. We are accessible for consultations. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only. We represent clients in White Plains City Court and Westchester County Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested in White Plains?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a White Plains criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to begin protecting your rights.
Can a misdemeanor charge be reduced in White Plains City Court?
It depends. Prosecutors may consider reducing a misdemeanor to a violation based on the evidence, your criminal history, and other factors. An experienced White Plains criminal defense attorney can negotiate with the District Attorney’s office to seek a favorable resolution.
How long does a criminal case take in Westchester County?
The timeline varies. A simple misdemeanor may resolve in a few months, while a complex felony case can take a year or more. Factors include court scheduling, evidence discovery, and whether the case proceeds to trial.
What is the difference between White Plains City Court and Westchester County Court?
White Plains City Court handles misdemeanors, violations, and the initial stages of felony cases. Westchester County Court is where felony indictments are filed and felony trials are held. Your White Plains criminal defense attorneys will know which court has jurisdiction.
Will a criminal conviction affect my professional license?
Yes, potentially. Many professional licensing boards in New York require disclosure of criminal convictions and may take disciplinary action. A conviction can jeopardize licenses in fields like law, medicine, finance, and real estate.
Under N.Y. Bus. Corp. Law § 101, state law governs this practice area.