Best Criminal Defence Lawyers in New York (2024)

Facing criminal charges in New York City can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. You need a skilled and experienced criminal defense lawyer by your side to navigate the complex legal system and fight for your rights. But with so many lawyers out there, how do you find the best criminal defense lawyer in NYC for your case?

Best Criminal Defence Lawyers in NY

New York City boasts some exceptional criminal defense lawyers who can provide expert legal representation. Here are a few notable ones:

Jay K. Goldberg

A legendary litigator in New York City, Jay K. Goldberg left an indelible mark on the legal landscape. Here’s a glimpse into his remarkable career:

• Jay Goldberg practiced law in both Civil Defense and Criminal Defense.
• He was a tenacious advocate known for his wit and sharp legal mind.
• Jay Goldberg was selected to Super Lawyers consistently from 2010 to 2023, a prestigious honor awarded to accomplished attorneys.
• His courtroom demeanor was described as “funny devastatingly,” leaving a lasting impression on criminal defense attorneys, prosecutors, and judges alike.
• While specific case details are not provided, Jay Goldberg’s victories spanned various criminal matters.

Jonathan Harris

A prominent figure in the legal arena, Jonathan Harris has left an indelible mark on the field of criminal defense. Here’s a closer look at his remarkable career:

1. Jonathan Harris is the Founder and Managing Partner of Harris St. Laurent & Wechsler LLP.
2. His legal journey combines trial expertise with extensive business and financial acumen.
3. Lawdragon named him one of the 500 Leading Lawyers in America for 2024.
4. He holds double rankings by Chambers in Litigation: White Collar Crime & Government Investigations and Labor & Employment: Mainly Plaintiffs.
5. Jonathan Harris frequently serves as lead counsel in high-profile trials, often collaborating with other prominent firms.
6. Some of his significant cases include:
   • Malicious Prosecution Case: Representing a former trader acquitted of criminal charges related to Libor market manipulation against an international bank.
   • Trademark Protection for NFTs: Trial counsel in a groundbreaking 2023 federal jury trial involving trademark protection for NFTs in the Metaverse.
   • Avi Dorfman’s Recognition: We successfully obtained public recognition for Avi Dorfman as a founding team member of real estate brokerage Compass and a financial settlement.
   • Defamation Award: Winning a record-setting $52 million defamation award in FINRA on behalf of a hedge fund portfolio manager against his former employer.
   • Taiwanese President’s Family Defense: Defending the family of a former President of Taiwan in a forfeiture case brought by the US Department of Justice.
   • Black Friday Internet Gambling Action: Successfully resolving an action brought by the Department of Justice against a world-renowned poker player and founder of Full-Tilt Poker.

Justine A. Harris

A formidable legal advocate, Justine A. Harris has dedicated her career to defending individuals and companies in high-stakes criminal matters and complex regulatory proceedings. Let’s delve into her remarkable journey:

1. Justine draws upon two decades of courtroom experience, including nine years as a federal public defender.
2. Chambers USA praises her as “very strong,” “amazing,” and “a fighter.” She fiercely protects her clients’ liberty and livelihoods.
3. Known for her rigorous advocacy, Justine has a track record of obtaining jury acquittals in challenging cases.
4. High-Profile Defense of Corporate Advisor:
   • Justine represented one of four advisors at a leading proxy solicitation firm.
   • The government accused them of conspiring to pay bribes to a proxy advisor employee in exchange for confidential information about anticipated proxy votes.
   • Charges included multiple counts of wire fraud and honest services wire fraud.
   • During the trial, a juror left due to a family medical emergency, leading to a mistrial.

James A. Mitchell

A seasoned criminal defense lawyer, James A. Mitchell has left an indelible mark in the legal arena. Let’s delve into his career and notable case wins:

1. James A. Mitchell is a respected litigator with extensive experience in criminal defense.
2. His legal journey spans decades, during which he has fiercely advocated for his clients.
3. Acquittals in Jury Trials:
   • Mitchell has secured acquittals in numerous jury trials, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex legal matters.
4. Overturning Convictions on Appeal:
   • In a significant victory, he successfully overturned a murder conviction on appeal.
   • The original sentence was replaced with a significantly reduced one, showcasing Mitchell’s tenacity and dedication to his clients.

Sandra L. Musumeci

A distinguished attorney, Sandra L. Musumeci, has made significant contributions to the field of criminal defense. Let’s delve into her career and notable case wins:

1. Sandra Musumeci is a partner at Kelley Drye & Warren LLP.
2. She brings a wealth of experience, having served as a Deputy Inspector General at the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for the New York City Police Department and as an Assistant District Attorney at the New York County District Attorney’s Office.
3. In 2024, Forbes Advisor named Sandra Musumeci one of the top ten criminal defense lawyers in New York City.
4. Wrongful Conviction Suit:
   • Musumeci played a pivotal role in a wrongful conviction civil suit that resulted in a $25 million award for Eddie Bolden.
   • Bolden had spent over two decades in prison for a double murder he did not commit.
   • The verdict stands as the highest award in a wrongful conviction case in Chicago.
   • Musumeci’s dedication to justice and her meticulous approach to verifying police investigations contributed to this landmark outcome.

What Is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A criminal defense lawyer specializes in representing individuals and companies charged with criminal activity. Their primary goal is to provide legal defense and ensure that their clients receive a fair trial. Here are some key points about criminal defense lawyers:

1. Representation in Court:
   • Criminal defense lawyers advocate for their clients during court proceedings.
   • They defend against criminal charges, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and arguing legal points.
2. Private Retention or Public Appointment:
   • Some criminal defense lawyers work as privately retained attorneys, hired by clients directly.
   • Others are appointed by the court to represent indigent individuals who cannot afford legal representation.
3. Areas of Expertise:
   • Criminal defense lawyers handle a wide range of cases, including:
     • Drug offenses
     • Assault
     • Theft
     • White-collar crimes
     • Homicide
     • Sexual offenses
     • DUI/DWI
     • Fraud
     • Domestic violence
     • Traffic violations
4. Legal Strategies:
   • They devise legal strategies to challenge evidence, protect constitutional rights, and negotiate plea deals.
   • Their goal is to secure the best possible outcome for their clients, whether through acquittal, reduced charges, or minimized penalties.
5. Client Advocacy:
   • Criminal defense lawyers are fierce advocates for their clients.
   • They investigate cases thoroughly, interview witnesses, and explore legal precedents to build a strong defense.
6. Ethical Considerations:
   • Balancing client confidentiality with ethical obligations is crucial.
   • Defense lawyers must navigate the crime-fraud exception, which allows disclosure of client communications related to future wrongdoing.

Criminal Cases: The Legal Process

1. Arrest:
   • The process begins with the arrest of the accused.
   • The state prosecutes the offender in a criminal case under public law.
   • Crimes are considered offenses against the state, so the state initiates the prosecution.
2. Custody:
   • After arrest, the accused may be held in custody or released on bail.
   • The court determines whether the accused should remain incarcerated or be granted bail.
3. Trial:
   • The trial stage involves presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and arguing legal points.
   • The defendant faces the court, and the prosecution seeks to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
   • The trial culminates in either a conviction or an acquittal.
4. Appeal:
   • If convicted, the defendant has the right to appeal the verdict.
   • Appeals focus on legal errors during the trial or sentencing.
   • The appellate court reviews the case and may uphold, modify, or reverse the decision.

How can I find the best Criminal Defense lawyers in New York City?

Finding the best criminal defense lawyer for your situation requires some research. Here are a few steps to get you started:

• Gather information about your case:
  • Be clear on the charges you are facing.
  • Consider any specific details or complexities of your case.
• Search online directories:
  • Legal directories like Avvo, Justia, and Super Lawyers list criminal defense attorneys in your area. These sites may also have client reviews and ratings.
• Read law firm websites:
  • Look for law firms specializing in criminal defense.
  • Read about their practice areas and attorney profiles to see if their experience aligns with your case.
• Consider recommendations:
  • Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations of criminal defense lawyers they know.
  • Reach out to bar associations or local legal aid organizations for referrals.
• Schedule consultations:
  • Once you have a shortlist of lawyers, contact them for consultations.
  • Consultations are a chance to discuss your case, get a sense of the lawyer’s personality and approach, and learn about their fees.

Here are some additional tips for choosing a criminal defense lawyer:

• Experience: Look for a lawyer with experience handling cases similar to yours.
• Communication style: Choose a lawyer you feel comfortable talking to and who explains things clearly.
• Availability: Make sure the lawyer is available to handle your case throughout the entire legal process.
• Fees: Discuss fees upfront and understand how the lawyer bills for their services.

How much does a Criminal Defense attorney cost in New York?

The cost of a criminal defense attorney in New York can vary greatly depending on several factors:

• Billing structure:
  • Hourly rate: This is common, with rates ranging from $150 to $900+ per hour. Experienced lawyers in reputable firms typically charge on the higher end.
  • Flat fee: This is offered for some cases, especially misdemeanors. Fees can start around $2,000 and go up to $10,000+ for felonies.
• Complexity of your case: More serious charges or intricate cases will likely cost more.
• Lawyer’s experience and reputation: Lawyers with extensive experience and a strong track record typically command higher fees.

Here’s a general breakdown:

• Misdemeanor: Expect to pay $2,000 to $10,000 for a flat fee or $150 to $500 per hour.
• Felony: Costs can range from $10,000+ for a flat fee or $300 to $900+ per hour.

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