Finding the Best Criminal Lawyer in Yonkers, NY – What You Need to Know

Getting arrested or charged with a crime in Yonkers can be really scary. You’re probably wondering what happens next, if you’ll go to jail, or if you need a lawyer. This article will help explain the basics so you can make the best choices for your situation.

Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

The short answer is yes – having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can make all the difference in how your case turns out. Here’s why:

• They know the prosecutors and judges and how things work in the local courts.
• They understand the complex laws and sentencing guidelines.
• They can advise you on possible plea bargains and negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges.
• They know what evidence can get thrown out if it was obtained illegally.
• They can defend you in court if your case goes to trial.

Bottom line – a good lawyer’s goal is to get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether. Don’t try to navigate the criminal justice system alone. The stakes are too high.

How to Find the Best Criminal Lawyer in Yonkers

Finding the right criminal defense attorney in Yonkers – someone you trust and can afford – is critical. Here are some tips:

• Get recommendations from friends and family who’ve used lawyers before.
• Search online reviews on sites like Avvo, Expertise, and SuperLawyers.
• Look at lawyer websites and read bios to find someone experienced with your type of criminal case.
• Schedule consultations with a few lawyers before deciding – make sure you really connect with and trust the one you choose.

How Much Do Yonkers Criminal Defense Lawyers Cost?

Attorney hourly rates vary, but expect to pay somewhere around $200-$500 per hour for an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Yonkers. Here are some general cost estimates:

• Less serious misdemeanors like shoplifting or simple assault may cost $1,500-$5,000 total.
• More complex felonies like drug charges, theft, or burglary could cost $15,000 or more.

The final cost depends on how long the case takes to resolve. Be sure to ask about payment plans and any deals for early case resolution. Hiring a lawyer on retainer so they’re ready when needed is also an option. The investment is worth it considering what’s at stake if convicted.

What to Expect When You Hire a Yonkers Criminal Lawyer

A good criminal defense attorney will start by thoroughly investigating the facts of your case. They’ll meet with you to hear your side, then:

• Obtain police reports, witness statements, and other evidence
• Visit the crime scene to look for exonerating evidence
• Interview any witnesses whose testimony could help your case

Next they’ll advise you on possible defense strategies and negotiate with the prosecutor. This could involve:

• Filing motions to get damaging evidence thrown out if it was obtained illegally
• Advising you on whether to accept a plea bargain or go to trial
• Presenting mitigating circumstances to the prosecutor and judge to reduce charges
• Working out a fair plea deal if you choose to avoid trial

If your case does go to trial, your Yonkers criminal defense lawyer will aggressively defend you in court to create reasonable doubt about your guilt. This is why having an experienced local trial lawyer is so important.

Common Criminal Charges in Yonkers

Here are some of the most common criminal offenses people face charges for in Yonkers and what a defense lawyer can do to help fight them:

Drug Crimes

Being charged with possession, distribution, or trafficking illegal drugs in Yonkers can have severe penalties. A drug crime conviction can mean hefty fines and years in prison. But an experienced drug crimes lawyer can often get charges reduced or dismissed by:

• Contesting the legality of police searches that turned up drugs
• Verifying drug lab testing procedures were properly followed
• Negotiating plea deals to lesser charges like simple possession

Theft/Larceny

From shoplifting to burglary, theft crimes are common in Yonkers. The value of property stolen determines whether it’s petty larceny (a misdemeanor) or grand larceny (a felony). Your criminal defense lawyer will review evidence to build the strongest defense, such as:

• You didn’t intend to deprive the owner of property permanently (needed food for your family)
• Someone else confessed to the theft
• Police violated your rights in obtaining evidence

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence charges can be complex because emotions run high and alleged victims may not cooperate. An experienced domestic violence lawyer can help by:

• Obtaining cell phone videos, medical records, and other evidence to refute allegations
• Interviewing witnesses to challenge the alleged victim’s version of events
• Helping negotiate plea deals like disorderly conduct instead of assault

DUI/DWI

After a drunk driving arrest, time is critical. A DUI lawyer can help by:

• Contesting the traffic stop and field sobriety tests
• Challenging breathalyzer or blood test results
• Negotiating plea bargains for reduced charges like reckless driving
• Presenting mitigating factors to minimize penalties

Sex Crimes

Sex crime allegations can destroy your reputation, even if charges get dismissed. An experienced sex crimes lawyer can carefully examine the evidence and accuser’s credibility to build the strongest defense, as well as negotiate with prosecutors to avoid excessive penalties if convicted.

Finding the Right Yonkers Criminal Attorney for Your Case

I hope this article helped explain the benefits of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Yonkers and what to expect from them. Every case is different, but an experienced local attorney can make all the difference between a fair outcome and a harsh one. Take time to choose a lawyer you connect with and who seems truly dedicated to fighting for you. It will be one of the most important decisions you make.