The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC understands how overwhelming it can be to face criminal charges. Many individuals feel confused and unsure of where to turn. Fortunately, if you’re reading this, you’re in the right place. With over a decade of legal experience, our firm has successfully defended clients in criminal cases and is ready to put our knowledge and dedication to work for you. Contact a skilled Long Island criminal defense lawyer from The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC for a free consultation today.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving Clients on Long Island
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we’re committed to delivering top-tier legal representation for a wide range of criminal cases. Here are some of the cases we handle:
We also handle several types of fraud-related charges on behalf of our Long Island clients, including:
What to Expect if You’re Arrested in New York
Getting arrested in New York can be stressful and confusing, especially if you’re unsure about what happens next. But when you understand how the process works, you can take control, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome. Here’s what to expect:
1. Conventional Arrest: What Happens Step-by-Step
If you’re arrested in New York, you’ll typically go through a traditional arrest process. Here’s what generally happens:
- Handcuffed and Taken into Custody: The police will handcuff you and transport you to a local police precinct. In NYC, you’ll then be taken to central booking.
- Arrest Processing: Then, you’ll undergo “arrest processing,” which includes having your fingerprints and mugshots taken, filling out police paperwork, and recording witness statements. This process usually takes up to 24 hours.
- Court Appearance: After processing, you’ll be taken to a courthouse where a judge will inform you of the charges and decide on bail.
- If Bail is Set: If you can’t post bail immediately, you might be moved to a detention facility. Bail can be difficult to reduce later, so having a skilled Long Island criminal defense lawyer to advocate for your rights from the start is crucial.
- If No Bail is Set: You might be released from the courtroom, though there could be conditions such as reporting to probation or wearing an ankle bracelet while your case is pending.
2. Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT): A Quicker Alternative
In some cases, you may receive a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) instead of undergoing a traditional arrest. Here’s how it works:
- Issuance of a DAT: The police issue a written ticket that details the charges and provides a future court date to address your case.
- Fast and Efficient: The DAT process is much quicker than a conventional arrest, often taking just a few hours, allowing you to be released promptly while awaiting your court date.
Criminal Offenses in New York
VIOLATIONS
Violations are the least severe offenses under New York law, much like traffic infractions. Though not classified as crimes, they can still result in serious penalties, including up to 15 days in jail. These cases are decided by a judge alone, as jury trials are not an option for violations.
Examples of Violations:
- Disorderly Conduct: Behaving in a way that disturbs public peace.
- Second-Degree Harassment: Actions that deliberately annoy or harass others.
- Trespassing: Being on private property without permission.
MISDEMEANORS
Misdemeanors are criminal offenses that carry more weight than violations. A conviction will result in a criminal record, so it’s imperative you hire a knowledgeable Long Island criminal lawyer. In New York, misdemeanors are categorized into three groups:
Class A Misdemeanors: The most serious type of misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail. Examples include:
- Third-Degree Assault: Causing physical harm to another person.
- Petit Larceny: Stealing property worth less than $1,000.
- Seventh-Degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Possessing illegal drugs.
Class B Misdemeanors: These carry a maximum jail sentence of 90 days. Common offenses include:
- Public Lewdness: Engaging in inappropriate exposure.
- First-Degree Harassment: Stalking or making threats.
- First-Degree Loitering: Remaining in a location with the intent to use drugs.
Unclassified Misdemeanors: Penalties depend on the specific offense. Examples are:
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI/DUI): Punishable by up to 1 year in jail.
- Driving with a Suspended License: Carrying a potential jail sentence of up to 30 days.
- Reckless Driving: Also punishable by up to 30 days in jail.
FELONIES
Felonies are the most serious crimes in New York, and their penalties increase based on the class and circumstances of the offense. They range from Class E (least severe) to Class A-I (most severe), with sentencing determined by factors like the nature of the crime, whether it involved violence, and the defendant’s criminal history.
E Felonies: These include:
- Second-Degree Identity Theft: Misusing someone’s personal information.
- First-Degree Falsifying Business Records: Altering or creating false business documents.
- Fourth-Degree Grand Larceny: Stealing property worth more than $1,000.
D Felonies: Examples include:
- Fifth-Degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Holding a significant quantity of drugs.
- Third-Degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon: Carrying illegal weapons.
- Second-Degree Assault: Causing serious injury to another person.
C Felonies: These offenses include:
- Second-Degree Burglary: Illegally entering a home with the intent to commit a crime.
- Fourth-Degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Possessing a larger quantity of drugs.
- Assault on Emergency Personnel: Attacking a police officer, firefighter, or EMT.
B Felonies: Examples include:
- First-Degree Robbery: Using force or threats during a theft.
- Third-Degree Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance: Selling or distributing illegal drugs in significant amounts.
- First-Degree Assault: Intentionally inflicting severe injuries.
A-II Felonies: Some of the most serious charges, including:
- Second-Degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Possessing large quantities of illegal drugs.
- Second-Degree Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance: Selling substantial amounts of drugs.
- Predatory Sexual Assault: Committing sexual assault under aggravating circumstances.
A-I Felonies: The highest level of felony offenses, such as:
- Murder: Intentionally causing the death of another person.
- First-Degree Kidnapping: Abducting someone with harmful intent.
- First-Degree Arson: Deliberately setting fires that cause extensive damage.
How We Challenge The Prosecution’s Burden Of Proof
In New York, the prosecution has the full responsibility to prove your guilt. They must meet the highest standard of proof: “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This means they must convince the judge or jury that you committed every element of the crime you’re charged with, leaving no room for reasonable doubt.
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we make sure the prosecution doesn’t get an easy pass. While the law doesn’t require the defense to prove your innocence, we hold the prosecution to its demanding burden. We dig deep into every piece of evidence, challenge its credibility, and ensure the prosecution’s claims stand up under scrutiny.
We know the ins and outs of defending clients in Nassau County and across Long Island. With our extensive experience in local legal procedures and courtroom dynamics, we advocate with confidence and precision. We leverage our understanding of the local legal landscape to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and challenge every piece of evidence.
If there’s any reasonable doubt about your guilt, we’ll expose it. Remember, if the prosecution fails to eliminate all reasonable doubt for each element of the charges, you’re entitled to a not guilty verdict. Our mission is to fight relentlessly for your freedom, holding the prosecution to the highest standard.
We Stand Up for Your Civil Rights
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we are passionate about defending individuals who have been wronged by law enforcement in Long Island, NYC, and beyond. We know that police misconduct can lead to wrongful arrests, unjust detentions, invasive searches, and excessive force. If you’ve faced such treatment, we’re here to fight for your rights and help you seek the justice you deserve.
False Arrest
If police detained or confined you without a valid reason, you may have been the victim of a false arrest. This happens when authorities take you into custody without probable cause or a proper warrant. If you’ve been wrongfully arrested, we’re here to act quickly and hold those responsible accountable.
Malicious Prosecution
Were you forced into court after an unlawful arrest? That’s malicious prosecution—when someone takes legal action against you without a valid legal basis. We’ll fight to end these wrongful proceedings and get you the justice you deserve.
Unfair Trial & Fabricated Evidence
A fair trial is your right, but it’s impossible when evidence is falsified or manipulated. If police or others breached your right to a fair trial, we’re ready to file a claim, expose the wrongdoing, and demand the compensation you deserve.
Excessive Force & Police Brutality
Police are sworn to protect—not harm. If they used excessive or unnecessary force against you, we’ll take immediate action to hold them accountable and fight for the justice you deserve.
Understanding Damages
Compensation for civil rights violations depends on several factors, such as:
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The extent of your physical and emotional injuries
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The length of your detention and legal battles
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Damage to your personal and professional reputation
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Any lost wages or employment
Contact a Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer on Long Island
No one should ever have to face criminal charges on their own. By hiring a knowledgeable and skilled Long Island criminal lawyer here at The R.M.L. Law Firm, you can have peace of mind, knowing your case and future are in good hands. We proudly represent clients throughout Long Island, including in Nassau County and Suffolk County. Facing criminal charges in Mineola, Hempstead, Westbury, Valley Stream, Long Beach, Garden City, Glen Cove, Freeport, East Meadow, Elmont, Rockville Centre, or anywhere on Long Island? Our team is ready to step in and fight for you.
We also extend our criminal defense services to clients in Queens, and across NYC—learn more about our Queens criminal defense representation.
Contact our firm online or call (516) 765-5566 for a free consultation today.
