Because the sentencing laws here are exceedingly complicated, defendants facing felony charges in the state of New York face harsher consequences than they might face in other states. If you’re charged with any felony in New York, get knowledgeable, skilled legal assistance immediately and obtain the services of an experienced Long Island criminal defense lawyer.

The law in New York recognizes three kinds of offenses: violations, which do not establish a criminal record; misdemeanors, which are divided into three “classes”; and felonies, which are actually divided into seven classes. Sentences for felonies in New York can be “determinate” or “indeterminate.” When a court hands down an “indeterminate” sentence, it establishes a minimum and maximum length of time to be served. When the offender has served the minimum amount of time, he or she becomes eligible for parole. Determinate sentences are for a precise length of time. Felony drug crimes in New York usually result in determinate sentences.

Everyone knows that felonies are considered the most serious crimes and that misdemeanors are generally considered somewhat less serious crimes. However, misdemeanors are not to be taken lightly just because they are not as serious as felonies. Infractions may in some cases be “trivial” but misdemeanors are never trivial. In New York, misdemeanors include crimes like public intoxication, vandalism, trespassing, simple assault, and disorderly conduct. A misdemeanor conviction in the state of New York can land you in jail for up to a year and cost you up to a $1,000 fine.

The most serious misdemeanors in New York are the “Class A” misdemeanors, but even a conviction for a Class B misdemeanor could mean jail for three months and a $500 fine. Depending on the specific details of your case, a number of additional penalties are also possible. When you’re accused of a felony or a misdemeanor in New York, only an experienced criminal defense lawyer can provide the aggressive representation you need and fight effectively for justice on your behalf.

A court can and probably will also order anyone convicted of a felony to pay a fine. The fine cannot be more than twice the amount the person gained by committing the crime. If you are convicted of a drug crime in New York, you are probably looking at quite steep fines, especially if you have any prior convictions.

While no outcome can ever be promised in any specific criminal case, the fact remains that you must have a criminal defense attorney who knows what it takes to win. Whether you have “priors” or not, if you’re charged with any violation, misdemeanor, or felony in the New York and Long Island area, do not plead guilty, and do not try to act as your own defense attorney. The law and the sentencing guidelines in New York are too harsh and too complicated to take that kind of risk. Instead, if you’re accused of a crime, get the trustworthy legal advice and representation that you are very much going to need, and consult immediately with an experienced Long Island criminal defense lawyer.