Misdemeanors are less serious crimes than felonies, but being arrested on a misdemeanor charge still threatens your freedom, reputation and wallet. The criminal defense attorneys at Gregg & Associates P.C. in Staten Island provide the same high caliber of representation to clients throughout the tri-state area no matter what type of misdemeanor they’re charged with. You can be confident in our dedication to the best possible outcome for your case.
New York has two primary types of misdemeanors, and each covers an extensive list of crimes:
Some crimes, such as assault or DUI/DWI, can be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor depending on the circumstances of the case.
Our criminal defense attorneys help you navigate the court system, plea bargain on your behalf and explain each step in the process so you are always fully informed.
In New York, there are two ways for your criminal case to begin its course through the system. You can be arrested and held in custody until a judge can hear your arraignment and set bail, or the police can summon you to appear on your own in criminal court using a desk appearance ticket (DAT). Many misdemeanor charges, violations such those as for disorderly conduct, and some Class E nonviolent felonies are processed using the DAT. It is important to understand that while the DAT is called a ticket, it is not the same as receiving a traffic ticket. You have been arrested and charged with a criminal offense. The only difference is in whether you take yourself to your arraignment or whether the police do.
A desk appearance ticket will list the date and time that you must appear in court for your arraignment. At the arraignment, you will hear the charges against you, and you must enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. The judge may also set bail. From this point, your case proceeds into the criminal court system in the same way as every criminal case that was processed using the traditional arraignment.
Because a DAT still involves a criminal charge, it is critical that you speak to a qualified criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights throughout the case. Our attorneys understand New York’s complex legal system and can help guide you through it.
Gregg & Associates P.C. offers a free initial consultation at our Staten Island office. If you are facing any level of misdemeanor charge, please contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss your case and see how we can help. To schedule a consultation, please call us at 866-308-3353 or contact us online.