Last Updated on: 27th July 2023, 04:34 pm

Maybe you let your troubled brother crash at your apartment when he had an arrest warrant. Or perhaps you helped your boyfriend’s friend hide out from the cops after a bad crime.

However it happened, you now find yourself accused of harboring a fugitive in New York City – a serious felony charge that can land you in prison if convicted.

While your intentions may have been noble, the legal realities are tough. Prosecutors take a hard line against factors that allow wanted criminals to evade justice.

But fighting back is possible. Having an experienced NYC harboring a fugitive lawyer on your side levels the playing field. Let’s take a closer look at how they can help.

Understanding the Harboring a Fugitive Charges

Under <a href=”https://codes.findlaw.com/ny/penal-law/pen-sect-205-45.html”>New York Penal Code §205.45</a>, a person is guilty of harboring a fugitive when:

• They knowingly provide shelter or aid to someone who committed a felony crime
• They aided the person with INTENT to prevent their arrest or prosecution
• They KNEW law enforcement authorities were searching for the felony fugitive

This charge is a Class D felony under New York law, carrying up to 7 years in prison.

Prosecutors must prove these elements beyond a reasonable doubt. But an experienced attorney can raise doubts around knowledge, intent, and more.

Key Defenses Against Harboring Charges

Though the laws are strict, several defenses can counter harboring allegations:

• You were unaware of the felony warrant when providing shelter
• You did not intend to obstruct law enforcement efforts
• You were coerced or threatened into providing assistance
• Misidentification – the person was not actually a wanted fugitive

An adept NYC defense lawyer leverages these angles to weaken the DA’s case and get charges dismissed.

Why Hiring a Lawyer is Critical

Trying to fight harboring charges alone is risky. A knowledgeable attorney provides immense value including:

• Pinpointing weaknesses in the prosecution’s legal theories and evidence
• Conducting detailed investigation of circumstances to bolster defenses
• Negotiating dismissal or reduction of charges through alternate resolutions
• Presenting the best case before a judge or jury if necessary
• Ensuring your rights aren’t violated during the legal process
• Avoiding actions that could self-incriminate and compound legal problems

Their skills can mean the difference between prison time versus preserving your freedom and criminal record.

Key Capabilities in a Harboring Case Lawyer

When searching for the right lawyer, you want:

• Deep knowledge of New York penal laws around obstruction of justice
• A record of getting similar charges dropped or reduced
• Strong negotiation skills to make deals with prosecutors
• Courtroom litigation experience ifTrial becomes necessary
• Resources to perform in-depth case investigation and preparation
• Insights into the NYPD warrant apprehension process

Ask tough questions during an initial consultation to vet these capabilities. NYC harboring cases are complex, so specialized experience is crucial.

Don’t Gamble with Your Future

Harboring a fugitive charges shouldn’t be taken lightly. But an elite NYC defense lawyer can help avoid disastrous outcomes.

Don’t wait to seek counsel if you or a loved one is accused of aiding someone wanted by NY authorities. There is hope fighting these allegations. An expert attorney makes all the difference.

Call today for urgent case review and representation. My firm has a proven record getting such charges dismissed and sparing good people like you from awful repercussions.

With the right legal strategy, we can achieve the best possible resolution. You deserve a strong defense. Let’s talk soon!