What to Do If You've Been Arrested or Are Facing Criminal Charges in New York
Just arrested? Call us immediately—24/7. Do not speak to police or make any statements until you have legal representation.
iKey Facts About Arrested or Facing Charges in New York
- Free consultation with experienced NY criminal defense attorneys
- Strict deadlines apply - don't wait to understand your rights
- $800M+ recovered for clients across New York State
- 24/7 availability for emergency legal situations
Understanding Arrested or Facing Charges
Being arrested or charged with a crime can happen to anyone—sometimes due to misunderstandings, mistaken identity, being in the wrong place at the wrong time, or actual allegations that need to be defended. New York has some of the busiest criminal courts in the nation, processing hundreds of thousands of cases annually. From DWI stops on Long Island to drug charges in Manhattan to domestic disputes in the suburbs, criminal charges can arise from countless situations.
Warning Signs You Need Legal Help
- Police want to 'just talk' or 'clear things up'
- You're being asked to come to the station 'voluntarily'
- Investigators are contacting your friends, family, or employer
- You received a target letter or grand jury subpoena
- Someone is pressuring you to make a statement
Immediate Steps to Take
Exercise your right to remain silent—do NOT talk to police without a lawyer
Ask clearly and repeatedly for an attorney
Do not consent to searches
Do not resist arrest, even if you believe it's wrongful
Remember details: officer names, badge numbers, what was said
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately—before speaking to anyone
Legal Consequences if Not Addressed
- Criminal conviction creates a permanent record affecting jobs, housing, and education
- Felony convictions result in loss of voting rights and gun ownership
- Immigration consequences including deportation for non-citizens
- Professional license revocations for doctors, lawyers, nurses, teachers
- Jail or prison time separating you from family and career
- Sex offender registration for certain offenses
New York Deadlines & Filing Requirements
Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your legal claims:
Arraignment
You must be arraigned within 24 hours of arrest (or the next court session). This is when charges are formally read and bail is set.
Speedy Trial Rights
New York's speedy trial rules require the prosecution to be ready for trial within specific timeframes: 90 days for felonies, 60 days for misdemeanors, 30 days for violations.
Motion Deadlines
Motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or challenge procedures must be filed within 45 days of arraignment in most cases.
Appeal Deadlines
If convicted, you typically have 30 days to file a notice of appeal from the judgment.
DIY vs. Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
Risks of Handling This Yourself
- Prosecutors are experienced attorneys—you're at a severe disadvantage
- You may not know about available defenses or procedural rights violations
- Plea deals offered without an attorney are often unfavorable
- Anything you say can and will be used against you
- Court procedures are complex and mistakes can be fatal to your case
Benefits of Professional Representation
- We protect your constitutional rights from the moment of arrest
- We investigate the prosecution's case for weaknesses
- We negotiate with prosecutors from a position of knowledge and experience
- We can often get charges reduced or dismissed
- We prepare aggressive trial defense if needed
How NY Lawyers Team Helps
Available 24/7 for arrest emergencies—we can meet you at the precinct or courthouse
Fight for bail reduction or release on your own recognizance
Investigate the charges and gather evidence for your defense
File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal
Provide aggressive trial representation if your case goes to court
Protect your record through sealing and expungement when eligible
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I talk to the police if I'm innocent?▼
What happens at arraignment in New York?▼
Can I get my criminal record sealed in New York?▼
What's the difference between a misdemeanor and felony in NY?▼
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?▼
Why New Yorkers Trust NY Lawyers Team
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Don't Face Arrested or Facing Charges Alone
Contact NY Lawyers Team today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced attorneys are ready to help you navigate this challenging situation.