Facing criminal charges in Freeport requires immediate action and experienced legal representation. Located on the South Shore of Nassau County, Freeport is a vibrant waterfront community with bustling nightlife along the Nautical Mile, busy commercial areas, and residential neighborhoods—each presenting unique challenges when legal trouble arises. At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, our experienced Freeport criminal lawyer understands the serious impact a criminal conviction can have on your life, from limiting job opportunities to damaging your personal and professional reputation.
We Proudly Represent Clients in All Freeport Criminal Defense Matters, including:
Whether charged with a misdemeanor or a serious felony, our Freeport criminal lawyer is dedicated to defending your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Local Freeport Court Information:
Freeport Village Court:
Nassau County District Court (Misdemeanors and Arraignments):
Nassau County Court (Felonies):
Types of Criminal Charges We Defend Against in Freeport:
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we represent clients facing a wide range of criminal charges under New York Penal Law. Below is an overview of common offenses in Freeport, frequent hotspots for these incidents, and the defense strategies our Freeport criminal lawyer employs to protect our clients.
DWI/DUI Offenses
Relevant Statutes: Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192
DWI arrests are common in Freeport, especially along The Nautical Mile, a popular nightlife area. Checkpoints and police patrols often target drivers leaving bars and restaurants, as well as along Merrick Road, a busy thoroughfare.
Potential Defenses:
- Improper Traffic Stop: We examine whether law enforcement had a valid reason to pull you over. If not, evidence from the stop may be inadmissible.
- Challenging Field Sobriety Tests: These tests are subjective and often influenced by external factors like poor lighting or uneven ground on The Nautical Mile.
- Breathalyzer Accuracy: We scrutinize the calibration and maintenance records of breathalyzer devices to ensure reliable results.
- Rising BAC Defense: Alcohol absorption rates can vary, meaning your BAC at the time of testing may not reflect your BAC while driving.
Drug Possession and Distribution
Relevant Statutes: Penal Law § 220.03 (Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree) to § 220.77
Drug-related arrests in Freeport frequently occur in areas like the Freeport Canal and Marina, where privacy and recreational activity may attract drug use or sales.
Potential Defenses:
- Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement conducted a search without probable cause or a valid warrant, we could move to suppress evidence.
- Lack of Knowledge: For example, if drugs were found in a shared or borrowed vehicle, you may not have known they were there.
- Chain of Custody Issues: We investigate whether the evidence was properly handled and stored by law enforcement.
- Entrapment: If undercover officers induced you to commit a drug offense you would not have otherwise engaged in, this defense may apply.
Theft and Larceny
Relevant Statutes: Penal Law § 155.25 (Petit Larceny) to § 155.42 (Grand Larceny in the First Degree)
Shoplifting cases often arise in Freeport’s retail areas like Sunrise Mall, while Merrick Road businesses occasionally report larger thefts, including burglary or vehicle break-ins.
Potential Defenses:
- Mistaken Identity: Surveillance footage or witness testimony might incorrectly identify you as the perpetrator.
- Lack of Intent: You may have accidentally taken an item without realizing it, particularly in crowded or chaotic retail settings.
- Ownership Disputes: If you believed the property belonged to you or had permission to take it, this defense could apply.
- Procedural Errors: We assess whether your rights were violated during your arrest or questioning.
Domestic Violence
Relevant Statutes: Penal Law § 120.00 (Assault in the Third Degree); § 240.26 (Harassment in the Second Degree)
Domestic violence charges often stem from disputes in Freeport’s residential neighborhoods or public altercations, such as those at the Freeport Recreation Center.
Potential Defenses:
- False Accusations: We investigate whether the charges were fabricated, often due to personal disputes or custody battles.
- Self-Defense: If you acted to protect yourself or others, we present evidence to support your actions.
- Lack of Evidence: Prosecutors must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt; we challenge weak or contradictory evidence.
- Violation of Due Process: If law enforcement failed to follow proper procedures, it could impact the validity of the charges.
Assault
Relevant Statutes: Penal Law § 120.00 (Assault in the Third Degree) to § 120.10 (Assault in the First Degree)
Assault cases in Freeport frequently arise from altercations at popular nightlife spots along The Nautical Mile or during events at the Freeport Recreation Center.
Potential Defenses:
- Self-Defense: If you acted to protect yourself from harm, this defense could negate the assault charge.
- Mutual Combat: In cases where both parties willingly engaged in a fight, we may argue for reduced charges or dismissal.
- Accident: If the injuries were caused unintentionally, the charges might not hold.
- Witness Credibility: We cross-examine witnesses to uncover inconsistencies or biases that may undermine their testimony.
Vandalism
Relevant Statutes: Penal Law § 145.00 (Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree)
Vandalism charges, such as graffiti or property damage, often occur in Freeport’s waterfront parks or Marina, where less surveillance provides opportunity for such activities.
Potential Defenses:
- Lack of Intent: We argue that any property damage was accidental rather than willful.
- Mistaken Identity: Vandalism often occurs in poorly lit or unsupervised areas, increasing the likelihood of misidentification.
- Insufficient Evidence: If there is no solid proof linking you to the vandalism, we push for dismissal.
- Consent: In some cases, the property owner may have given permission for the act (e.g., graffiti art).
Weapons Offenses
Relevant Statutes: Penal Law § 265.01 (Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree) to § 265.08 (Criminal Use of a Firearm in the First Degree)
Weapons charges in Freeport often stem from disputes or police investigations near the Marina or Freeport High School.
Potential Defenses:
- Illegal Search and Seizure: We challenge any evidence obtained without a valid warrant or probable cause.
- Possession Does Not Equal Ownership: We argue that the weapon may not have belonged to you or that you were unaware of its presence.
- Improper Licensing: If you have a valid license that was not readily available at the time, we work to clarify the misunderstanding.
- Lack of Intent: We challenge claims that the weapon was meant to be used unlawfully.
Why Early Legal Help Matters
After an arrest in Freeport, your first court appearance, or arraignment, usually happens within 24 hours. This is when charges are formally read. Having an experienced Freeport criminal defense lawyer at your side early on can make a huge difference in your case.
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we ensure you understand your rights and the charges, so you can make informed decisions about your defense.
Serving Freeport and All Nassau County Communities
We Serve all Nassau County Communities, including:
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Freeport
If you are facing criminal charges in Freeport or anywhere in Nassau County, contact The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC. Let us help protect your rights and secure your future.
