New York City Criminal Defense Lawyers
Last updated on May 19, 2026
If you have been charged with a crime in New York, or if you are under investigation or have recently been arrested, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side immediately. The decisions you make in the first hours after an arrest can affect your freedom, your future employment, your housing, and your permanent record.
In addition to our decades of experience representing clients accused of federal crimes, Sapone & Petrillo is dedicated to representing those accused of state crimes in New York. From our New York City and Long Island offices, we have built a strong reputation for representing clients in serious criminal matters. Our trial attorneys advocate for your interests both in and out of the courtroom.
Criminal Charges We Handle In New York
New York’s criminal justice system handles a broad range of offenses, from misdemeanors in NYC Criminal Court to serious felonies in New York Supreme Court. At Sapone & Petrillo, we represent people facing a wide variety of charges, including:
Violent Crimes
We represent clients facing serious violent crime charges, including homicide, murder, manslaughter, assault, and robbery. If you are charged with a violent offense in New York, we are prepared to protect your rights at every stage of the case.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence allegations can lead to jail time, orders of protection, and serious consequences for family relationships, employment, and housing. We defend clients accused of domestic violence while protecting their rights at every stage of the process.
Sex Offenses
Charges such as rape, sexual assault, and criminal sexual act can lead to severe penalties and mandatory sex offender registration in some cases. Sex crime offenses require a careful, strategic defense built around the evidence and the applicable law.
Drug Crimes
New York drug charges can range from misdemeanor possession to serious felony distribution or trafficking allegations. We work to challenge searches, seizures, and the prosecution’s proof whenever possible.
DWI And Driving-Related Offenses
A DWI conviction in New York can result in license consequences, fines, required programs, and possible incarceration. We defend clients accused of DWI and related driving offenses throughout New York City and Long Island.
Weapon And Gun Charges
New York has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and weapons charges can lead to harsh penalties. If you are facing a gun or weapon charge, immediate legal representation is essential.
White Collar Crimes
Fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, identity theft, and similar allegations are often aggressively investigated by state and federal authorities. White collar crimes are frequently document-heavy and require a thorough, detail-oriented defense.
Theft And Larceny
New York law treats petty larceny, grand larceny, burglary, and robbery as different offenses with different penalties. Whether you are facing a shoplifting case or a felony theft charge, we can help.
Property Crimes
We also handle criminal trespass, criminal mischief, arson, and other property-related offenses. In these cases, we focus on reducing exposure and pursuing dismissal or reduction where possible.
What To Do After An Arrest In New York
Being arrested is a stressful and frightening experience, but the steps you take right away can make a meaningful difference in your case. Knowing your rights and acting quickly can help protect your defense.
1. Exercise Your Right To Remain Silent: You are not required to answer questions from law enforcement beyond identifying yourself. Politely state that you are invoking your right to remain silent and do not discuss the facts of the case without your lawyer present. Anything you say may be used against you later.
2. Do Not Consent To Searches: You have the right to refuse consent to a search of your person, vehicle, or home. Even if you believe you have nothing to hide, consenting to a search can give police evidence they may later use against you.
3. Request An Attorney Immediately: Ask for a lawyer before answering any questions. If you are in custody and request counsel, questioning should stop. Protecting your rights early can help prevent avoidable mistakes.
4. Understand What Happens Next: After an arrest in New York, you may be released with a Desk Appearance Ticket, also called a DAT, or you may be held for arraignment. At arraignment, the charges are formally presented, and the court addresses release conditions, including bail or recognizance where allowed under New York law.
5. Contact Sapone & Petrillo As Soon As Possible: Time is critical after an arrest. The sooner you speak with a criminal defense attorney, the sooner your defense can begin.
Contact Our Experienced Trial Lawyers Today
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in New York City or Long Island, do not wait to seek legal help. The earlier you involve an experienced criminal defense attorney, the more options you may have. At Sapone & Petrillo, we represent clients across all five New York City boroughs and throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties. We understand how overwhelming this process can feel, and we are here to guide you through every step from arraignment through resolution.
Contact us online or call 646-844-3445 to arrange a consultation with our attorneys.