Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manhattan, NY
Facing criminal charges can have serious immediate and long-term consequences. That’s why it’s important to know your rights under the law as soon as possible. Whether you’re being charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense, a Manhattan criminal defense attorney can guide you through the criminal justice system and protect your rights under the Constitution.
Take the First Step Toward Justice Today
An Experienced Legal Team
In 2022, The Law Office of Tracy & Tracy was established. The firm benefits from the decades of combined public service experience of attorneys Brendan Tracy and Victoria Tracy.
Brendan Tracy worked as a prosecutor for 13 years before going into private practice. He handled cases ranging from homicide to DWI and domestic abuse. Because of his experience, he understands firsthand how prosecutors prepare cases for trial.
Victoria Tracy worked for the New York City Administration for Children’s Services for almost 11 years. During her tenure, she oversaw and battled complicated cases involving families and children.
We have cultivated professional connections with local courts, prosecutors, judges, and court employees throughout the course of our years of practice in New York City. Brendan was recently elected to the board of the Richmond County Bar Association.
Crime in Manhattan
Manhattan is a financial, commercial, and cultural hub for New York City. Millions of people commute through Times Square, Midtown Manhattan, SoHo, and the Financial District every year.
With that foot traffic comes numerous criminal investigations. According to Crime Grade, the property crime rate in a given year was 18.28 per 1,000 residents, and the violent crime rate was 4.977. The overall crime rate was 29.52.
Densely populated areas with large amounts of people traveling through them, like Broadway, FDR Drive, and the West Side Highway, receive the most scrutiny. Law enforcement officers frequently investigate crimes like theft, assault, drug charges, weapons offenses, white collar crime, and DWI arrests.
The New York Penal Law defines crimes and the legal elements prosecutors are required to prove in order to secure convictions. The New York Criminal Procedure sets out rules and procedures that govern arrests, arraignments, discovery, motions, and trials. This piece of legislation outlines defendants’ rights under the Constitution.
What to Do If You Are Charged with a Crime
Just because you have been charged with a crime does not mean you are going to be convicted of that crime. The choices you make after being charged can have lasting implications for your case. If you have been charged with a crime:
- Invoke your right to remain silent. You should not discuss your case with the police or investigators.
- You have the right to speak with an attorney before speaking with police or other investigators and signing any paperwork.
- Preserve any evidence that you believe may relate to the allegations against you. This could include documents, pictures, text messages, emails, or information.
- Make sure to appear at all of your court dates and adhere to any rules imposed by the court if you are released pending resolution of your case.
In the first half of 2026, major crime decreased in Manhattan by 6.2%. While this is a positive trend that can also be seen nationwide, criminal charges can still affect your life.
Surveillance video, electronic devices, witness interviews, and forensic testing can all play important roles in a criminal prosecution. Reviewing this evidence early can help identify flaws with the investigation and witness testimony.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
By deciding to hire a criminal defense lawyer, you have retained an advocate who can guide you through every stage of the criminal justice system. Criminal defense lawyers review the evidence presented by prosecutors and look for violations of your rights, errors in the investigation, and defenses to the charge.
Your Manhattan criminal defense attorney can prepare motions to protect your rights and assist with the resolution of your case. When appropriate, your attorney can negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf and attend hearings and trial.
An attorney can build you a criminal defense strategy and help you understand the consequences of your decisions. They can explain potential plea bargains, diversion programs, sentencing exposure, and the trial process. Your attorney can also advocate for reduced charges on your behalf. We aim to thoroughly examine all possible defenses and protect your rights.
FAQs
What Is the Difference Between an Indictment and a Criminal Complaint?
The difference between an indictment and a criminal complaint is the timing of each phase. A criminal complaint is usually the charging document used to initiate a criminal matter by setting forth the allegations against a defendant. An indictment is the charging document returned by a grand jury after they’ve heard evidence presented by prosecutors. Most felony matters in New York may be prosecuted by indictment before they can be heard in Supreme Court.
Can I Travel While My Criminal Case Is Pending?
You might be able to travel while your criminal case is pending, depending on the conditions of release from the court orders. Some defendants have no restrictions on travel. Some may have to get court approval before traveling out of state or country.
If you break any of the conditions of your release, you may face further criminal charges. Be sure to read and understand all of the court’s requirements.
Are Juvenile Cases Handled Differently From Adult Cases?
Yes. Juvenile cases are often handled differently from adult cases. Depending on the age of the child and the offense charged, the case may be heard in Family Court or in a different court with jurisdiction. Penalties, applicable laws, and long-term consequences may also vary from adult criminal prosecutions.
Can a Criminal Record Be Sealed in New York?
A criminal record can be sealed in New York under certain conditions. Individuals who meet eligibility requirements can petition the state of New York to seal specific criminal records.
Eligibility is determined by the offense of conviction and how much time has passed since satisfying the sentence. Sealing isn’t automatic, and state law excludes many types of offenses.
Request Your Consultation Today
At The Law Office of Tracy & Tracy, we understand criminal defense laws and can help you understand how they apply to your case. Contact us today for an initial consultation.
