Sorry, this content is not available. Check out other listings in this category.

Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in New York, New York

Criminal defense lawyers in New York handle cases across five boroughs and two federal districts. New York's discovery reform laws now force prosecutors to share evidence early, but strict deadlines can lead to case dismissals on procedural grounds. That creates both risk and opportunity, depending on your attorney's skill. The right lawyer knows how to use these rules to your advantage. Compare the attorneys below and find your match fast.

We research each listing using public records, verified reviews, and direct evaluation. Our rankings reflect reputation, reliability, and results.

  • Bar standing and public disciplinary history review
  • Documented case results and courtroom trial experience
  • Peer recognition within the legal community
  • Client reviews, communication, and responsiveness
  • Overall online reputation and verified user feedback

Rankings are determined independently based on public information and editorial research.

Best-Rated New York Criminal Defense Attorneys with Trial and Plea Negotiation Records

Screenshot of the Law Offices of Julie Rendelman, LLC Website
535 5th Ave #2525, New York, NY 10017, USA

Julie Rendelman is a New York City criminal defense attorney with over 20 years of trial experience. She previously served as Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn and Deputy Chief of the Brooklyn Homicide Bureau.

The firm handles drug charges, assault, DWI, weapons offenses, domestic violence, and white-collar crimes in state and federal courts. Julie has been recognized by the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and holds a 10.0 Avvo rating. The Midtown Manhattan office offers free initial consultations.

Screenshot of the Greco Neyland, PC Website
1140 6th Ave Suite 1035, New York, NY 10036, USA

Greco Neyland, PC is a top-rated criminal defense law firm in New York City. Founded by former prosecutors Jeffery Greco and Dustan Neyland, the firm handles state and federal cases across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Long Island. Their attorneys bring insider knowledge of how the prosecution builds cases, giving clients a clear edge in court.

The team defends charges ranging from DWIs and drug crimes to white-collar offenses, violent crimes, and sex crimes. Jeffery Greco holds Super Lawyers recognition and NHTSA certification for field sobriety testing. Dustan Neyland completed forensic chromatography training to challenge errors in crime labs.

Greco Neyland offers free consultations and 24/7 availability for urgent matters.

Screenshot of the Tilem & Associates, PC Website
188 E Post Rd, White Plains, NY 10601, USA

Tilem & Associates delivers aggressive criminal defense and personal injury representation in White Plains, NY. With over 25 years of experience, their attorneys handle everything from homicide and drug offenses to DWI and traffic violations. The firm serves clients throughout New York City and surrounding counties. They provide personalized legal strategies for complex cases while maintaining strong client relationships. Their expertise covers both serious felonies and routine violations.

Screenshot of the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC Website
299 Broadway #1400, New York, NY 10007, USA

The Law Offices of Robert Tsigler provides aggressive criminal defense across NYC's five boroughs. Available 24/7, their attorneys handle assault, drug crimes, white-collar offenses, and federal cases. Robert Tsigler ranks in the Nation's Top One Percent with a 10.0 Superb Avvo rating. The firm offers reasonable fees and payment plans from offices in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Long Island. Former Kings County DA's experience strengthens their defense strategies. Named a Top 40 Under 40 attorney, Tsigler fights to win dismissals or reduced charges.

Screenshot of the Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law Website
21 Main St #200W, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA

Sutnick & Sutnick defend clients facing criminal charges throughout New Jersey and New York. Laura Sutnick and Warren Sutnick are both former prosecutors certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court. The Hackensack firm has handled thousands of cases since 2002. They represent clients in DUI, drug crimes, violent offenses, and traffic violations. No-cost case evaluations available 24/7.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Carl Spector Website

The Law Office of Carl Spector serves Bergen County with criminal defense representation. Carl Spector is a former prosecutor in New York and New Jersey with over 30 years of trial experience. The Glen Rock office handles DUI, drug possession, assault, domestic violence, and gun crimes across New Jersey. The firm operates 24/7 and provides initial case reviews at no charge.

Screenshot of the Michael A. Arbeit, P.C Website
23 S Main St #30, Freeport, NY 11520, USA

Michael A. Arbeit PC handles criminal defense cases throughout Long Island and New York City. The firm represents clients facing misdemeanors, felonies, drug crimes, theft, and traffic violations. Attorney Michael A. Arbeit provides 24/7 availability and free consultations. They serve Nassau County, Suffolk County, and NYC with experienced legal representation.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Luke Scardigno Website
123-60 83rd Ave Suite 1T, Kew Gardens, NY 11415, USA

The Law Office of Luke Scardigno defends clients across Queens and New York City. Attorney Luke Scardigno has practiced criminal law for over 30 years. He handles DWI charges, domestic violence cases, and felony defense. The Kew Gardens office sits across from the Queens County Criminal Courthouse. Luke represents clients in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Long Island. He offers affordable payment plans for all services. Clients receive personal attention at every court appearance. Contact 718-414-6186 for a no-cost consultation.

Screenshot of the Michael Paul, Attorney at Law Website
Lower Level Left, 3507 90th St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA

Michael Paul practices criminal defense law throughout Queens and Brooklyn from his Jackson Heights office. He handles DWI/DUI cases, traffic violations, and real estate transactions with aggressive representation. The attorney offers affordable payment plans and maintains constant client communication. His office offers easy access to public transportation and convenient parking options. Michael focuses on delivering dedicated legal services for both criminal defense matters and property law issues.

Screenshot of the Scott Cerbin Criminal Defense Website
254 36th St Suite C659, Brooklyn, NY 11232, USA

Scott Cerbin is a top-rated NYC criminal defense attorney with 15+ years of experience. He defends clients in all five boroughs across serious charges. His firm has won acquittals in high-profile cases, including attempted murder. Scott offers 24/7 availability and aggressive legal representation. The firm handles criminal defense, civil rights, and post-conviction appeals. Free consultations are provided to all potential clients.

Screenshot of the Vasiliou Law Website
3097 Steinway Street ste 301a, Astoria, NY, US

Vasiliou Law is a trusted criminal defense law firm serving Queens, New York. With over 30 years of experience, their criminal lawyers handle DUI, theft, drug charges, and more. The firm also provides legal services in family law, estate planning, and immigration. Attorneys speak Spanish and Greek, offering personalized support for a diverse community.

Screenshot of the The Fast Law Firm, P.C. Website
521 5th Ave 17th floor, New York, NY 10175, USA

The Fast Law Firm is a top-rated NYC criminal defense practice led by Elena Fast. She graduated first in her law school class and earned Super Lawyers recognition. Elena is a former prosecutor with an AV Preeminent rating. The firm handles white-collar crimes, federal cases, and healthcare fraud. They serve clients in federal and state courts. Elena is licensed to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Screenshot of the Law Offices of Victor Knapp Website
125-10 Queens Blvd #323, Kew Gardens, NY 11415, USA

Victor Knapp brings 40+ years of criminal defense experience to Queens, NY clients facing DWI/DUI, domestic violence, and federal charges. Known for landmark cases including the Howard Beach riots, he's available 24/7 and treats every client personally. His strategic approach consistently results in felonies being reduced to dismissals or lesser charges. Located across from Queens Criminal Court, he serves all NYC boroughs and Long Island.

Screenshot of the Spodek Law Group P.C. Website
611 S Catalina St #222, Los Angeles, CA 90005, USA

Based in NYC, Spodek Law Group handles tough criminal defense cases nationwide with over 50 years of combined experience. The firm specializes in federal and state criminal law, with a proven track record of success in high-profile cases. They offer risk-free consultations and focus on getting charges dismissed or reduced. Their unique approach prioritizes client outcomes over standard legal procedures.

Screenshot of the Stahl Gasiorowski Criminal Defense Lawyers Website

Stahl Gasiorowski are white-collar criminal defense attorneys serving New Jersey and New York City. They have nearly 60 years of combined experience defending complex cases. The firm handles investigations, trials, and appeals. They offer free consultations and have offices in Westfield, NJ, and NYC. Their attorneys protect client rights and liberties.

Screenshot of the Sullivan & Brill, LLP Website
115 Broadway, 17th floor, New York, NY 10006, United States

Sullivan & Brill provides aggressive criminal defense throughout New York City and Long Island. The firm brings over 20 years of trial experience. They handle federal crimes, state charges, DWI, and fraud cases. Their attorneys successfully manage appeals and post-conviction matters. The downtown Manhattan firm serves clients statewide. They focus on achieving the best possible outcomes.

Screenshot of the Laurence A. Silverman & Associates Website
537 E Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station, NY 11746, United States

Laurence A. Silverman & Associates provides criminal defense and family law services in Long Island. Their attorneys have decades of trial experience in drug crimes, DWI, and domestic violence cases. The firm offers free consultations and fights aggressively for clients' rights. They maintain offices in Huntington Station, Central Islip, and Mineola. The legal team works around the clock to protect clients facing serious charges. Their extensive courtroom experience helps achieve favorable outcomes in complex cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Charge in New York?

Fee structures vary by charge severity. Misdemeanor cases may cost a flat fee. Felony cases often run on hourly billing or a retainer structure. DUI and drug charges fall somewhere in between. Attorneys in Manhattan and Brooklyn tend to charge higher rates than those in the outer boroughs. Always ask for a written fee agreement before signing anything.

How Long Does a Criminal Case Take in New York?

Timelines depend on the charge and court backlog. A misdemeanor in Criminal Court may be resolved in a few months. Felony cases sent to the Supreme Court can take a year or longer. Discovery deadlines under CPL Article 245 require the prosecution to turn over evidence within 20 days for jailed defendants and 35 days otherwise. Missed deadlines can result in dismissal.

What Are New York's Key Discovery Reform Rules?

New York overhauled its discovery process in 2019. Prosecutors must now disclose evidence, witness lists, and police records early in the case. The old system let prosecutors wait until just before trial. Under the current rules, failure to comply with discovery timelines may result in dismissal of the case under CPL 30.30. Defense attorneys who understand these rules can use them to pressure weak cases.

What Happens If I Am Charged with a Felony in New York?

Felonies carry sentences of more than one year in prison. Class A felonies like murder have no statute of limitations. Most other felonies must be charged within five years. Bail reform limits cash bail for many lower-level offenses, but judges retain discretion for violent felonies and repeat offenders. Your attorney should be ready for arraignment in Criminal Court and grand jury proceedings in the Supreme Court.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Criminal Charges in New York?

It depends on the charge classification. Class A felonies and certain sex offenses have no time limit. Most felonies carry a five-year limit. Misdemeanors must be charged within two years. Petty offenses have a one-year window. The clock may pause if the defendant leaves New York State.

Can I Get My Case Dismissed in New York?

Dismissal is possible on several grounds. Prosecutors who miss discovery deadlines face motions to dismiss under CPL 30.30. Illegal searches, Miranda violations, and lack of probable cause are also strong grounds. An experienced attorney will identify procedural errors early and file suppression motions before trial.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor in New York?

Yes, even misdemeanors carry serious consequences. A conviction can mean up to one year in jail, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Employers and landlords in New York routinely run background checks. A skilled defense attorney may negotiate a plea to a lesser charge or push for an outright dismissal.

What Should I Do Right After an Arrest in New York City?

Stay calm and exercise your rights. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Do not answer questions or consent to searches without legal counsel present. Request your lawyer immediately. In NYC, you must be arraigned within 24 hours of arrest in most cases.

Types of Criminal Defense Cases in New York

Drug Crimes. New York prosecutes drug offenses under its own Penal Law and the Rockefeller-era sentencing framework. Charges range from misdemeanor possession to felony trafficking. Manhattan and the Bronx see a high volume of drug-related arrests.

DUI/DWI. Driving while intoxicated is treated seriously across all five boroughs. A first offense can result in license revocation, fines, and possible jail time. Repeat offenders face felony charges. Breath test refusals trigger automatic license suspension under implied consent laws.

Assault and Violent Crimes. Assault charges in New York range from third-degree misdemeanors to first-degree felonies. Cases involving weapons, serious injury, or domestic violence carry enhanced penalties. The Bronx and Brooklyn handle a significant share of violent crime cases.

White-Collar Crimes. Manhattan's Southern District of New York is one of the most active federal courts for fraud, insider trading, and financial crimes. State-level charges include grand larceny, forgery, and identity theft. These cases often involve complex document review and expert witnesses.

Theft and Property Crimes. Petit larceny is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny thresholds start at $1,000 in property value. Shoplifting, burglary, and robbery all fall under this umbrella. New York recently added deed theft as a specific form of grand larceny.

Weapons Charges. New York has some of the strictest gun laws in the country. Unlicensed firearm possession is a felony. Recent amendments added pistol converters to the weapons definitions. Cases involving illegal firearms often carry mandatory minimum sentences.

Sex Offenses. These charges carry severe penalties and sex offender registration requirements. Many sex offenses have no statute of limitations under New York law. Cases are prosecuted aggressively across all boroughs.

Domestic Violence. Every borough operates specialized domestic violence courts. Charges can range from harassment to assault. Orders of protection are issued at arraignment and can restrict where you live and work.

How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer in New York

Check their experience in your borough's courts. Each borough has its own Criminal Court with different judges and prosecutors. A lawyer who regularly practices in Manhattan Criminal Court at 100 Centre Street will know the local culture and key players.

Ask about their trial record. Many cases resolve through plea deals, but you want an attorney who is prepared to go to trial. Prosecutors offer better deals when they know defense counsel has courtroom credibility.

Verify their knowledge of discovery reform. New York's CPL Article 245 rules have changed the defense landscape. Your attorney should know how to leverage discovery deadlines and file motions to dismiss when prosecutors fail to comply.

Look for federal court experience if applicable. The Southern District of New York (Manhattan) and Eastern District (Brooklyn) handle major federal cases. If you face federal charges, your lawyer must be admitted to practice in these courts.

Review their communication style. Criminal cases move fast in New York City. You need an attorney who returns calls, explains your options clearly, and keeps you informed at every stage.

What Affects Criminal Case Outcomes in New York

Case outcomes in New York depend on many factors. The strength of the prosecution's evidence matters most. Weak forensic evidence or unreliable witness testimony can shift the leverage to the defense. Discovery compliance plays a growing role since the 2019 reforms. Cases dismissed on procedural grounds have risen significantly across the city. The borough where your case is filed also matters. Prosecution strategies, judicial temperament, and plea offer patterns differ from Manhattan to Queens to the Bronx. Your attorney's relationships and reputation in that specific courthouse can influence negotiations. Prior criminal history, the severity of the charge, and whether you were released pretrial all affect sentencing if a case goes to conviction. New York's bail reform limits pretrial detention for many offenses, but repeat offenders and violent felony defendants still face significant bail requirements.