Last Updated on: 17th October 2023, 10:57 pm

Brooklyn Major Felonies Lawyers

If you or a loved one have been charged with a major felony in Brooklyn, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Major felonies like murder, rape, robbery and assault carry serious penalties if convicted, including long prison sentences. Having a knowledgeable Brooklyn lawyer to advocate for you can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about fighting major felony charges in Brooklyn. We’ll go over common charges, potential defenses, the role of your lawyer, and what to expect from the legal process. Consider this your guide to navigating major felony cases in Brooklyn criminal court.

Common Major Felonies in Brooklyn

Some of the most common major felonies charged in Brooklyn include:

• Murder – includes varying degrees based on intent and circumstances
• Manslaughter – reckless homicide without malice aforethought
• Rape – forced sexual intercourse without consent
• Robbery – theft of property by force or threat of force
• Burglary – unlawful entry into a building to commit a crime
• Assault – physical attack meant to cause bodily harm
• Kidnapping – unlawful confinement, movement, or detention of a person
• Arson – maliciously and intentionally setting fire to property

The specific charges and degree of felony (A, B, C, D or E) depends on the circumstances and details of the alleged crime. But in general, these are some of the major felonies seen regularly in Brooklyn criminal court.

Penalties for Major Felonies in Brooklyn

Convictions for major felonies in Brooklyn carry severe penalties. Exact sentencing depends on things like criminal history and any plea agreements. But possible punishments include:

• Long prison sentences – Murder and rape convictions can bring 25+ years in prison. Other major felonies often bring 5-15 years.
• Significant fines – Major felonies fines can be $5,000 to $100,000+ in NY.
• Probation – Major felonies may include probation of 5-10 years following release.
• Restitution – Repayment to victims for losses from the crime.
• Sex offender registration – For rape, child pornography and other sex crimes.

With so much at stake, having an experienced Brooklyn lawyer fighting for you is critical. An attorney knows how to examine the evidence, identify procedural problems, negotiate with prosecutors and build the strongest defense to avoid harsh penalties.

Fighting Major Felony Charges in Brooklyn

When facing serious accusations like murder, rape or robbery, the natural reaction is fear and despair. But it’s important to remember that the charges are just accusations at this point. With an aggressive defense lawyer on your side, there are a number of strategies to fight major felony charges:

• Challenge probable cause – In order for charges to stick, prosecutors must show there was probable cause to arrest you. An attorney can argue this threshold wasn’t met.
• Suppress evidence – If evidence was obtained illegally, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress it so it can’t be used against you.
• Discredit witnesses – Witness testimony can often make or break a case. Skilled cross-examination can expose contradictions, bias and credibility issues.
• Raise affirmative defenses – Defenses like self-defense, insanity, duress, or entrapment may excuse otherwise illegal acts.
• Negotiate plea deals – An experienced attorney may be able to negotiate a plea to lesser charges in exchange for avoiding trial.
• Take it trial – When appropriate, demanding trial and forcing the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

An assertive Brooklyn lawyer will leverage every option at their disposal to build the strongest case for dismissal or acquittal. Don’t assume that felony charges inevitably lead to conviction.

Finding the Best Brooklyn Major Felonies Lawyer

Not all attorneys are equal when it comes to defending major felonies in Brooklyn. When selecting legal counsel, you want to look for these important qualities:

• Experience – A lawyer who regularly handles major felony cases will know what strategies work best.
• Resources – Big cases require substantial investigation and expert witnesses, which costs money.
• Negotiation skills – The ability to negotiate plea bargains can lead to greatly reduced charges and sentences.
• Trial skills – A lawyer’s ability to argue before a judge and jury is crucial if heading to trial.
• Reputation – A respected lawyer who is known locally for winning big cases can have added influence.

Don’t leave your fate in the hands of an inexperienced or indifferent lawyer. Interview attorneys thoroughly and look for someone passionate about defending the accused.

What to Expect Fighting Major Felonies in Brooklyn

Once you’ve secured legal counsel, here is an overview of what to expect as your Brooklyn major felonies case unfolds:

1. Arrest and booking – You will be fingerprinted, photographed and held until arraignment or bail is posted.
2. Arraignment – This is your first court appearance where charges are read and bail/release conditions are set.
3. Preliminary hearing – The prosecution must show probable cause that you committed the crime(s) charged.
4. Grand jury – Prosecutors present evidence and witnesses to obtain an indictment and move to trial.
5. Pretrial motions – Your lawyer can file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges and more.
6. Plea negotiations – Your attorney may negotiate with the DA for reduced charges or sentencing recommendations.
7. Trial – If no plea is reached, your case will go before a judge and/or jury who decide guilt or innocence.
8. Sentencing – If found guilty, the judge determines penalties based on statutory guidelines and other factors.
9. Appeal – You can appeal the conviction and sentence if errors were made in the legal process.

Having an attorney guide you through each phase is critical. The legal process is complex and intimidating, but a good lawyer will handle the details while keeping you informed and fighting for the best outcome in your case.

The Bottom Line

Facing major felony charges in Brooklyn can be an extremely frightening and confusing time. But having the right lawyer on your side can help ensure your rights are protected, your defenses are raised, and you get the best possible result in your case.

Don’t leave your future to chance. Do your research to find an experienced Brooklyn attorney who will fight aggressively on your behalf. And don’t assume that a felony charge inevitably means severe penalties – a dedicated lawyer can often negotiate reduced charges, present persuasive defenses, and even win dismissal or acquittal.

With skilled legal guidance, resources and determination, you can overcome major felony accusations in Brooklyn. The stakes are high, but the right lawyer can make all the difference.

References

Learn more about fighting major felony charges in Brooklyn with these useful resources:

• Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office – Felony Charges
• New York Penal Code – Title H Felonies
• New York City Criminal Procedure Law
• Kings County Supreme Court – Felony Calendars
• Brooklyn Defenders Services