Stay calm and do not resist, but do not discuss the accusation with police or other detained people. Say clearly that you wish to remain silent and want an attorney. Do not consent to a search or try to explain your side before getting legal advice. Keep your arrest paperwork, note the next court date, and follow every release condition. Call Greenwald Law Firm at 845-567-4820, or ask a family member to call if you cannot.

Yes, but dismissal is never automatic. A charge may be dismissed when the allegations are legally insufficient, crucial evidence is unavailable, the prosecution violates discovery rules, or police obtained evidence unlawfully. A successful suppression motion can also leave the prosecution without enough proof to continue. Other cases end through a reduced charge, diversion, a plea, or an acquittal. A lawyer must review the actual charging papers and evidence before judging whether dismissal is realistic.

A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony, but it can still result in incarceration and a criminal record. Under New York Penal Law § 70.15, a Class A misdemeanor can carry up to 364 days in jail. A Class B misdemeanor can carry up to three months.

New York felonies are divided into Classes A, B, C, D, and E. General maximum terms for certain felonies appear in New York Penal Law § 70.00, although offense-specific and violent-felony rules may change the applicable sentence.

Either type of conviction can affect employment, housing, immigration, professional licensing, and firearm rights.

Not necessarily. The outcome depends on the charge, the strength of the evidence, any alleged harm, mandatory sentencing rules, and the circumstances surrounding the case. Dismissal, a reduced charge, probation, treatment, community service, a conditional discharge, or a fine may be possible in some cases. Other charges carry mandatory or restricted sentencing options. A lawyer can give you a realistic assessment only after reviewing the accusation and your background.

A straightforward misdemeanor may end after several court appearances, while a contested felony can take many months or longer. Discovery, forensic testing, motions, witness availability, negotiations, and the court’s calendar all affect the schedule. More time is not always a bad sign; the defense may need it to investigate, obtain records, or challenge evidence.

Do not decide until you understand the evidence, available defenses, proposed sentence, and long-term consequences. A plea may reduce risk or lead to a lesser charge, but it also means giving up the right to a trial and often limits appeal rights. Immigration status, employment, professional licenses, firearm rights, and family-court issues may also be affected. Review every term with your attorney before accepting or rejecting the offer.

The judge may issue a bench warrant and reconsider bail or release conditions. Do not ignore the missed appearance or assume the court will simply assign another date. Contact your attorney immediately. Depending on the court and the reason for the absence, a lawyer may be able to arrange an appearance, explain what happened, and ask the judge to address the warrant.