Why You Need a Queens Criminal Lawyer to Fight Your Charges

Understanding Criminal Offenses in Queens, NYC

In Queens, criminal offenses fall into three categories: felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. Felonies are the most serious crimes, such as robbery with violence. Misdemeanors include charges like trespassing, vandalism, drug possession, prostitution, disorderly conduct, petty theft, and animal crimes. Infractions typically involve fines and traffic tickets. The impact of a criminal charge can be devastating and far-reaching, affecting your employment prospects and even your ability to get insurance. That’s why, if you’re facing criminal charges, it’s in your best interest to consult with a Queens criminal lawyer. They can help you negotiate a plea bargain or a lesser sentence and protect your rights.

The Consequences of Criminal Charges in Queens, NYC

The penalties for criminal charges in Queens, NYC, can be severe. The maximum jail time for a Class A misdemeanor in NYC is 12 months, and Class A misdemeanor charges include drug possession, assault, and theft. While non-violent misdemeanors may not result in jail time, they should not be taken lightly. The disposition and verdict of a criminal case depend on various factors, including the crime, the defense strategy, and the courts. Certain courts in Queens impose jail terms for misdemeanors. Crimes such as Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in New York are taken seriously, and if you’re convicted, you may face license suspension and high insurance premiums in the future. The negative consequences of criminal charges can follow you for years, so it’s crucial to seek legal expertise.

The Defenses Your Queens Criminal Lawyer Can Use

When it comes to criminal charges, a good defense is key. Your Queens criminal lawyer can use various strategies to defend you, such as:

Presumption of Innocence

All accused parties are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Using the presumption of innocence as a defense, your lawyer can argue that the prosecution has failed to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. This can cast doubt on the jury, and in some cases, the charges may be dismissed altogether.

Self-Defense

If you committed a crime in an effort to defend yourself, self-defense may be a possible defense strategy. Your lawyer will need to demonstrate that it was necessary and that the amount of force used was reasonable.

Under the Influence

Committing a crime under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be a defense, but it may not exonerate you from the charges. Your lawyer will need to show that you were mentally impaired and should not be held accountable for the crimes committed.

Defense of Duress

If you were compelled to commit a crime under threat of bodily harm, your lawyer can argue that you did so under duress.

The Defense of Mistake

If you committed a crime by mistake, such as serving alcohol to an underage customer with a fake ID, your lawyer can use the defense of mistake.

Why You Need a Queens Criminal Lawyer

The defenses presented are based on the unique circumstances of your case. That’s why it’s wise to have your case reviewed by an experienced Queens criminal lawyer who can prepare a defense strategy based on the merits of your case. At Spodek Law Group P.C., our team of criminal defense attorneys has over 50 years of combined criminal law experience. We’ve consistently obtained favorable results for clients under investigation or prosecution for state and federal offenses in Queens, New York. Our teamwork approach utilizes the talent of our attorneys, investigators.

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