When you face criminal charges in New York, you need a skilled lawyer by your side.
A skilled lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
They could reduce charges or secure an acquittal. Finding the best criminal defense lawyer in New York City can greatly improve your chances of a favorable result in court.
New York boasts some of the most experienced and accomplished criminal defense attorneys in the country.
These lawyers have extensive knowledge of state and federal laws.
They also have intricate familiarity with the local court systems.
They can provide expert guidance, develop strong defense strategies, and zealously advocate for your rights throughout the legal process.
1) Benjamin Brafman
Benjamin Brafman is widely regarded as one of the top criminal defense attorneys in New York City.
With a career spanning decades, you’ll find his expertise in criminal law unparalleled.
Brafman founded Brafman & Associates, P.C., a Manhattan-based law firm specializing in criminal defense.
His reputation for handling high-profile cases has made him a go-to lawyer for celebrities and prominent figures facing legal troubles.
You might recognize Brafman from his work on several notable cases.
His client list includes well-known names from various industries, demonstrating his versatility in criminal defense.
Brafman’s legal career began after he graduated with distinction from Ohio Northern University in 1974.
During his time there, he served as the Manuscript Editor of The Law Review, showcasing his early commitment to legal excellence.
In 1975, Brafman was admitted to the New York State Bar.
He spent two years working for a criminal defense firm, gaining valuable experience before establishing his own practice.
Your search for a top-tier criminal defense lawyer in New York would be incomplete without considering Brafman.
His firm, consisting of eight lawyers, focuses exclusively on criminal defense cases.
Brafman’s courtroom presence is notable.
Standing at five feet six inches, he makes up for his stature with a commanding voice and demeanor that’s uniquely New York.
If you’re looking for accolades, Brafman has those too.
He was once named New York City’s “Best Criminal Defense Lawyer” by New York magazine, a testament to his skill and reputation in the field.
2) Gerald Shargel
Gerald Shargel was one of the best criminal defense lawyers in New York and the United States.
You might recognize his name from high-profile cases involving Mafia bosses and politicians.
Shargel’s career spanned decades, during which he earned a reputation for his unwavering commitment to his clients.
He vowed to “do anything that the law will allow” to defend those he represented.
Born in New Jersey in 1944, Shargel obtained his law degree from Brooklyn Law School in 1969.
His expertise in criminal and white-collar cases made him a go-to attorney for those facing serious charges.
If you’re looking for a lawyer with a track record of defending high-stakes cases, Shargel’s career is worth studying.
He represented numerous mobsters with Staten Island connections, showcasing his ability to handle complex and controversial cases.
Shargel’s skills extended beyond the courtroom.
He was known as both a trial lawyer and an appellate star, as evidenced by his involvement in the 1972 Supreme Court case Giglio vs.
U.S.
Throughout his career, Shargel remained a prominent figure in New York’s legal circles.
His reputation and high-profile cases often put him in the spotlight, making him one of the most recognized criminal defense attorneys in the city.
3) Barry Scheck
Barry Scheck is a renowned criminal defense attorney practicing in New York.
You may recognize him as a member of the famous “Dream Team” that secured an acquittal for O.J. Simpson in his highly publicized murder trial.
Scheck’s expertise extends far beyond high-profile cases.
He is a top-rated civil rights attorney who has been recognized by Super Lawyers for multiple years between 2007 and 2022.
His practice focuses on criminal law, criminal appeals, and civil rights cases.
You’ll find Scheck’s commitment to justice extends beyond the courtroom.
He co-founded the Innocence Project, an organization dedicated to exonerating wrongfully convicted individuals through DNA testing.
This initiative has helped free over 300 people who were unjustly imprisoned.
With more than 35 years of experience, Scheck has built a reputation as one of the country’s leading trial lawyers.
His work has significantly impacted the rights of victims of police misconduct and wrongful convictions throughout the United States.
If you’re seeking legal representation in New York, you should know that Scheck is admitted to practice before the courts in the state.
He currently serves as a member at Neufeld Scheck & Brustin, LLP, where he continues to fight for justice and civil rights.
4) Ron Kuby
Ron Kuby is a prominent criminal defense and civil rights lawyer in New York City.
You may recognize him from his work on high-profile cases and media appearances.
Kuby’s career spans decades, during which he has defended many notable criminal cases.
His expertise extends to both state and federal courts.
If you’re looking for a lawyer with a strong commitment to civil liberties, Kuby could be an excellent choice.
He has dedicated his career to opposing government overreach and defending those he believes are unfairly targeted by the justice system.
You’ll find that Kuby is known for his outspoken nature and passionate advocacy.
He’s not afraid to take on controversial cases or challenge the status quo.
Kuby’s law office focuses on criminal defense for individuals facing charges related to political beliefs, race, class, gender, and other factors.
He also handles civil rights cases.
When you work with Kuby, you’re getting a lawyer with extensive courtroom experience.
He has represented clients in some of New York City’s most high-stakes trials.
Beyond his legal practice, Kuby has been a radio talk show host and television commentator.
This media presence has made him a well-known figure in New York legal circles.
5) Benjamin Yaster
Benjamin Yaster is a criminal defense attorney based in New York.
He works for the Federal Defenders of New York, an organization dedicated to providing legal representation to individuals who cannot afford a private lawyer.
You can find Yaster at the Brooklyn office of the Federal Defenders.
His contact information includes an email address and phone number, making it easy for potential clients to reach out.
Yaster’s area of expertise lies in federal criminal defense.
This means he specializes in defending individuals accused of crimes that fall under federal jurisdiction.
As part of the Federal Defenders team, Yaster likely handles a wide range of cases.
These may include drug offenses, white-collar crimes, and other federal charges.
Yaster’s professional profile shows he was admitted to practice law in New York State in 2009.
He graduated from New York University, which is known for its strong legal education program.
While specific details about Yaster’s case history are not publicly available, his role at the Federal Defenders suggests he has experience in complex federal cases.
His work likely involves both trial preparation and courtroom advocacy.
6) Marc Agnifilo
Marc Agnifilo is a renowned criminal defense attorney in New York with over 30 years of experience.
You may recognize his name from high-profile cases that have made headlines in recent years.
As a partner at Agnifilo Intrater LLP, Agnifilo has built a reputation for taking on complex and challenging cases.
His track record includes winning acquittals in trials ranging from assault to international tax fraud and political corruption.
Throughout his career, Agnifilo has tried more than 200 cases in both federal and state courts.
This extensive courtroom experience has honed his skills in crafting effective defense strategies for his clients.
You may be interested to know that Agnifilo has represented several high-profile clients in the past.
His ability to handle media attention while vigorously defending his clients has made him a sought-after attorney for those facing public scrutiny.
Agnifilo’s expertise in white-collar crime defense has earned him recognition from his peers.
He has been awarded the Super Lawyers distinction for over a decade, from 2011 to 2024.
7) Stacey Richman
Stacey Richman is a highly respected criminal defense attorney in New York.
She has built a reputation for her unwavering commitment to defending her clients’ rights and upholding the Constitution.
With over 25 years of experience, Richman brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to every case she handles.
As a trial lawyer, Richman’s dedication to criminal defense runs deep.
She was raised in the legal world as the daughter of renowned attorney “Don’t Worry Murray” Richman.
You’ll find Richman’s practice based in the Bronx, where she serves clients with a wide range of criminal defense needs.
Her expertise covers various aspects of criminal law, ensuring comprehensive representation for those facing legal challenges.
Richman’s exceptional work has not gone unnoticed.
She has been consistently recognized by Super Lawyers from 2012 to 2024, a testament to her standing among peers and her track record of success.
If you’re seeking a criminal defense attorney in New York, you can reach out to Stacey Richman at her Bronx office.
Her commitment to her clients and her extensive experience make her a formidable advocate in the courtroom.
8) Alex Spiro
Alex Spiro is a high-profile attorney based in New York.
You might recognize his name from his work with numerous celebrity clients and high-stakes cases.
Spiro’s legal expertise spans various areas, making him a versatile choice for complex criminal cases.
He has tried over 50 cases to verdict, demonstrating his extensive courtroom experience.
As a graduate of Harvard Law School and a former Manhattan prosecutor, Spiro brings a unique perspective to his defense work.
His background in prosecution gives him valuable insights into how the other side operates.
You’ll find that Spiro’s client list includes notable figures such as Elon Musk, Jay-Z, and Alec Baldwin.
This speaks to his ability to handle high-pressure cases involving public figures.
Recently, Spiro has been in the news for representing New York City Mayor Eric Adams in a criminal case.
This further highlights his standing in the legal community and his ability to take on politically sensitive matters.
If you’re looking for a criminal lawyer with a track record of handling high-profile cases, Spiro could be an excellent choice.
His experience, coupled with his background in both prosecution and defense, makes him a formidable advocate in the courtroom.
9) Donna Newman
Donna Newman is a highly respected criminal defense attorney in New York.
With nearly three decades of experience, she has established herself as a formidable advocate for her clients in federal district courts and courts of appeals.
You’ll find Newman’s office at 20 Vesey Street, Suite 400, in New York City.
Her practice focuses on representing individuals facing criminal charges in federal cases.
Newman’s expertise has been recognized by her peers, as evidenced by her selection to Super Lawyers from 2007 to 2024.
This prestigious designation is based on an evaluation of various indicators, including peer recognition and professional achievement.
Throughout her career, Newman has represented hundreds of clients in federal criminal cases.
Her extensive experience allows her to navigate complex legal situations with skill and precision.
If you’re seeking legal representation, you can reach out to Newman’s office directly.
Her contact information is readily available, and she offers consultations to discuss your case.
When choosing a criminal defense attorney, consider Newman’s track record and recognition in the field.
Her years of dedicated practice in federal criminal defense make her a strong choice for those facing serious charges.
10) Susan Necheles
Susan Necheles is a premier criminal defense lawyer in New York City.
Her extensive experience and impressive track record make her a top choice for those seeking legal representation in complex criminal cases.
As a partner at NechelesLaw, LLP, Susan has built a reputation for excellence in defending individuals and corporations in government and regulatory investigations.
Her skills have earned her recognition from prestigious legal organizations.
You’ll find Susan’s expertise particularly valuable if you’re facing serious criminal charges.
She has represented high-profile clients, demonstrating her ability to handle challenging and sensitive cases with discretion and skill.
Susan’s educational background is impressive, with a degree from Yale Law School.
This prestigious education has undoubtedly contributed to her success in the legal field.
If you’re looking for a lawyer with a diverse range of experience, Susan fits the bill.
She has defended clients from various backgrounds, including corporate executives and individuals involved in organized crime cases.
Susan’s dedication to her clients is evident in her approach to each case.
You can expect personalized attention and a strategic defense tailored to your specific situation when working with her.
When you need a criminal defense lawyer in New York who combines experience, skill, and a proven track record, Susan Necheles should be at the top of your list.
Her commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients makes her a standout choice in the field.
Understanding Criminal Law
Criminal law encompasses a wide range of offenses and legal processes.
You need to grasp the basics of criminal charges and your rights as an accused individual to navigate the legal system effectively.
Overview of Criminal Charges
Criminal charges in New York range from minor infractions to serious felonies.
Misdemeanors include offenses like petty theft or simple assault, typically punishable by up to one year in jail.
Felonies, such as robbery or murder, carry longer prison sentences.
You may face state or federal charges depending on the nature and location of the alleged crime. White-collar crimes like fraud or embezzlement often fall under federal jurisdiction.
Understanding the specific charge against you is crucial.
Each offense has unique elements that prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction.
Rights of the Accused
As an accused person in New York, you have fundamental rights protected by the U.S. Constitution and state laws.
These rights begin from the moment of arrest and continue throughout the legal process.
You have the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination.
It’s advisable to exercise this right until you’ve consulted with a criminal defense attorney.
You’re entitled to legal representation.
If you can’t afford a lawyer, the court will appoint a public defender.
Your attorney can help you understand the charges, negotiate with prosecutors, and develop a defense strategy.
You have the right to a fair and speedy trial by an impartial jury.
During trial, you can confront witnesses, present evidence, and testify on your own behalf if you choose.
Qualities of the Best Criminal Lawyers
Top criminal lawyers possess distinct traits that set them apart in the legal field.
These qualities enable them to provide exceptional representation and achieve favorable outcomes for their clients.
Experience and Expertise
Criminal defense attorneys with extensive courtroom experience are better equipped to handle complex cases.
You should look for lawyers who have successfully defended clients in cases similar to yours.
Expertise in specific areas of criminal law is crucial.
A lawyer well-versed in white-collar crimes may not be the best choice for a DUI case.
Seasoned attorneys often have established relationships with prosecutors and judges, which can be beneficial for negotiations.
They’re also more likely to anticipate potential challenges and develop effective strategies.
Reputation and Client Testimonials
A lawyer’s reputation in the legal community speaks volumes about their abilities.
You can gauge this through peer reviews, awards, and recognition from professional organizations.
Client testimonials provide insight into a lawyer’s communication skills, dedication, and track record.
Look for attorneys who consistently receive positive feedback from past clients.
Be wary of lawyers who make unrealistic promises or guarantee specific outcomes.
Ethical attorneys are honest about potential case outcomes and challenges.
Approach to Defense
The best criminal lawyers take a proactive and thorough approach to defense.
They should conduct independent investigations, interview witnesses, and scrutinize evidence.
Communication is key.
Your attorney should keep you informed about case progress and explain legal concepts in understandable terms.
A strategic mindset is essential.
Top lawyers assess all possible defense strategies and choose the most effective approach for your specific situation.
Negotiation skills are crucial, as many cases are resolved through plea bargains.
However, your lawyer should also be prepared to go to trial if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right criminal defense attorney in New York City involves several key considerations.
Cost, expertise, and reputation play crucial roles in the selection process.
How do I find a top-rated criminal defense attorney in NYC?
You can start by researching online directories and legal ratings websites.
Look for attorneys with high ratings and positive client reviews.
Ask for recommendations from trusted sources or local bar associations.
What should be considered when choosing a criminal defense lawyer in New York City?
Consider the lawyer’s experience with your specific type of case.
Evaluate their track record of success and reputation in the legal community.
You should also assess their communication style and ensure you feel comfortable working with them.
Can I get a free consultation with a criminal lawyer in NYC, and how would I set that up?
Many NYC criminal defense attorneys offer free initial consultations.
You can typically set this up by calling their office or submitting a contact form on their website.
Be prepared to briefly describe your case during this consultation.
Are there affordable options for criminal defense legal representation in New York City?
Yes, some attorneys offer payment plans or sliding scale fees based on your income.
You might also consider public defenders if you qualify based on financial need.
What distinguishes the most prestigious law firms in New York when it comes to criminal defense?
Prestigious firms often have a history of handling high-profile cases and achieving favorable outcomes.
They may employ attorneys like Benjamin Brafman or Gerald Shargel, known for their expertise and courtroom skills.
These firms typically have extensive resources and connections within the legal system.
What are typical fees for criminal defense representation in NYC?
Fees can vary widely based on the complexity of your case and the attorney’s experience.
You might encounter hourly rates ranging from $200 to over $1,000 per hour.
Some lawyers charge flat fees for specific services.
Always discuss fees upfront and get a clear understanding of the payment structure.