Founding Attorney
Have you been arrested in Suffolk County, NY? Whatever the reason for your arrest, it was likely a stressful experience, and you could be worried about fines, damage to your reputation, or even imprisonment.
Whether you face misdemeanor or felony charges, you need to know what you’re up against and how you can protect yourself from the worst consequences of conviction. You can start by hiring a strong criminal defense attorney to fight for your acquittal or try to get all charges against you dismissed. If that just isn’t possible, you need a criminal defense attorney to represent you in plea negotiations and work to get the best results you can, such as a diversion program or reduced charges.
Criminal Charges
How stressed you are after your arrest will probably depend on the charges against you. Some charges can result in years or even decades in prison, while others will lead to no more than a fine. It’s a good idea to find a skilled criminal defense attorney no matter what you may have been arrested for – especially if the charges allege:
- Driving while intoxicated, or DWI
- Drug possession
- Fraud
- Theft
- Criminal mischief
- Domestic violence
- Robbery
- Rape
- Burglary
- Trespass
- Assault
- Stalking
- Reckless driving
- Driving with a Suspended License
- Weapons offenses
- Possession of stolen property
- Harassment
- Larceny
- Menacing
- Disorderly conduct
Under New York Penal Law, some charges are misdemeanors and can be punished by imprisonment for fifteen days to one year. Other charges are felonies and can be punished by imprisonment for more than a year.
What to Do After an Arrest in Suffolk County
In many ways, your criminal defense begins as soon as police arrest you. Here are a few steps you can take to protect yourself under these stressful circumstances:
- Remain calm and comply with the arresting officer’s instructions.
- Exercise your right to remain silent and do not say anything police or prosecutors can use against you.
- Do not consent to searches of your person, property, or belongings unless the officer has a warrant.
- Ask to speak with a criminal defense lawyer in Suffolk County as soon as possible.
Building your Defense
After an arrest in Suffolk County, NY, the first step you should take is to get a good criminal defense attorney. Your prospective attorney will sit down with you to go over the facts of your case and discuss your options with you.
Your attorney will then review the police report, criminal complaint, or accusatory instrument to seek any evidence of mistakes or misconduct by law enforcement, such as gathering evidence without a proper warrant. If your attorney finds evidence of misconduct or other errors, they will ask the judge to dismiss all charges against you.
Your defense attorney may also call on forensic experts and investigators to challenge any evidence the prosecution has against you. Depending on the circumstances, your lawyer might negotiate for a plea deal, in which you plead guilty to lesser charges in exchange for the prosecution dropping more serious ones. Your lawyer may also seek alternative sentencing options or diversionary programs to shield you from the more serious consequences of a guilty plea or verdict. Finally, your attorney will argue in court for an acquittal if you choose to contest the charges against you.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Suffolk County Today
If you’ve been arrested in Suffolk County, NY, you need a criminal defense attorney who is committed to fighting for the best outcome possible. Michael Arbeit, P.C., is ready to stand up for your rights, go after any weaknesses in the case against you, and seek to have all charges dismissed or to win the case at trial. If there’s no chance of an acquittal, he will do everything he can to get you the best possible results in plea negotiations, including reduced charges or a diversion program. Find out what he can do for you when you contact our offices for a free consultation.