Violent Crimes

Violent Crime Attorney in New York

Your Defense, Our Priority: Why Clients Trust Our Violent Crime Attorneys

Facing a violent crime charge in New York demands immediate and strategic guidance from an attorney who understands the seriousness of your situation and the intricacies of state and federal law. At Raiser and Kenniff, P.C., with offices in Manhattan, Mineola, and Suffolk, our seasoned legal team brings over 100 years of collective courtroom experience, including the unique insights of former prosecutors.

We focus on delivering personalized, attentive defense tailored to each client, no matter the complexity or severity of your case. By intentionally maintaining a smaller caseload, we ensure you receive the full attention of a violent crime attorney in New York, while always maintaining direct 24/7 access to our lawyers for updates, urgent questions, and peace of mind during every phase of your case.

Facing a violent crime charge? We are former prosecutors who offer free consultations and are available 24/7. Call (888) 646-0025 or contact us online to speak with a violent crimes attorney in New York today.

Comprehensive Legal Support for Violent Crimes in New York

Our trusted presence across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Suffolk County criminal courts reflects our ongoing commitment to zealous client advocacy, comprehensive case assessments, and a defense that is tailored to the unique legal landscape of each locality.

We frequently defend individuals in cases that include:

Felony assault and aggravated assault: Including situations with allegations of substantial bodily harm or use of a deadly weapon
Robbery and armed robbery: Addressing both property offenses and cases with enhancement allegations involving weapons
Manslaughter and murder: Navigating fact-intensive defenses in complex homicide investigations and prosecutions
Domestic violence allegations: Handling cases with family dynamics, restraining orders, and sensitive privacy concerns
Gun- and weapon-related crimes: Advocating for clients navigating New York’s rigorous gun laws and related violent crime accusations

New York’s criminal courts may handle violent crime cases with nuanced differences depending on local court administration, prosecutorial practices, and individual judges. Our criminal defense attorneys track recent developments in state statutes, changes in bail reform, and new interpretations impacting violent crime sentencing, especially in high-profile or multi-defendant cases.

This regional experience empowers us to anticipate procedural roadblocks or opportunities unique to each borough or county court. Additionally, because we represent a diverse clientele—including military personnel facing civilian or court-martial proceedings—we maintain an adaptive approach and offer practical solutions for clients from all walks of life.

Our legal team’s bilingual and trilingual capabilities (English, Spanish, and Russian) further ensure that language barriers never stand in the way of clear, effective communication through every stage of your defense.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in New York

The direct legal penalties for a violent crime conviction in New York are steep and often include:

Incarceration: Jail or prison time, ranging from a few months for a misdemeanor to a life sentence for a serious felony.
Fines: Fines can be substantial, often reaching into the thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.
Probation and Supervised Release: A conviction will likely be followed by a period of supervised probation or parole, during which you must adhere to strict conditions. A violation of these terms can lead to re-incarceration.
Mandatory Counseling: The court may order you to attend various programs, such as anger management or domestic violence classes.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for a violent crime can follow you for the rest of your life, making it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a felony conviction will result in a permanent ban on owning or possessing a firearm. For non-citizens, a criminal conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

The New York Criminal Defense Process for Violent Crime Charges

Navigating the criminal justice system in New York for a violent crime charge can be confusing and overwhelming. Our firm provides a clear, step-by-step guide and will be with you at every stage, ensuring you understand your rights and your options.

We are an assertive violent crimes attorney in New York who will be your unwavering advocate from your first court appearance to the final resolution of your case.

Investigation and Arrest: The process begins with an investigation and arrest; it is crucial to remain silent and request a lawyer immediately.
Arraignment: This is your first appearance before a judge, where you will be formally notified of the charges and enter a plea. We will advise you on the appropriate plea and begin the process of gathering information to build your defense.
Grand Jury Indictment: All felony cases in New York must be brought by a grand jury indictment. We understand this process and the strategies to challenge it.
Discovery: We will obtain and review all the evidence the prosecution intends to use against you, including police reports, forensic evidence, and witness statements, to build a strong defense.
Pre-Trial Motions and Plea Negotiations: We will file pre-trial motions to challenge illegally obtained evidence or procedural errors and engage in plea negotiations with the prosecutor, seeking a favorable agreement.
Trial and Sentencing: If a plea agreement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. If a conviction occurs, we will present mitigating evidence and arguments during sentencing to seek the most lenient sentence possible.

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Why We're the Right Choice

Attentive Service. Strategic Defense.

Raiser and Kenniff, P.C. is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.

Personalized Legal Strategy
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every case is handled with a custom legal approach tailored to your goals, your circumstances, and your future.
Risk-Free Consultation

We offer a risk-free evaluation of your case and are here to help you understand your legal options. We are available 24/7, day or night, to help you.
Top-Rated Team

Nationally recognized for results. Our attorneys have been ranked among the best in the U.S., Trusted for their strategy, skill, and relentless client advocacy
Former Prosecutors
Our founding partners are both former New York prosecutors who bring unique experience and insights to every case, especially when it comes to going to trial.

Our Approach: Building a Strong Defense for Violent Crime Charges

As dedicated violent crime attorneys in New York, our legal process is structured to give you clarity, proactive guidance, and unwavering advocacy from your initial consultation through case resolution. We work with you to make informed decisions and respond strategically to every twist in your case.

Immediate, confidential consultation: You’ll receive prompt access to a violent crime lawyer who can explain your legal situation, review your rights, and help you avoid missteps even in the earliest stages of an investigation.
Case review & strategy planning: Our team, including former prosecutors, analyzes police evidence, reviews witness statements, and assesses every piece of evidence for constitutional issues. In New York, law enforcement must adhere to strict standards for collecting evidence, conducting searches, and handling interrogations—and we know what violations to look for.
Personalized advocacy at every step: By accepting a limited number of cases, we remain sharply focused on the details of your situation. You’ll always receive timely updates, open communication, and a step-by-step explanation of what to expect as your case proceeds through hearings, discovery, motion practice, and trial.
Negotiation & litigation: We prepare for every scenario, whether it calls for negotiating plea agreements, seeking alternative resolutions, or aggressively contesting charges at trial. Strategies are tailored according to your goals, the reality of your circumstances, and the priorities of the court in which your case is prosecuted.
Support for military members: If you or a loved one is serving, we understand how military status can affect violent crime proceedings in both civilian and military courts. Our firm stands ready to assert your rights on every front.

Throughout every proceeding, our commitment to client-focused service remains strong. We provide flexible payment arrangements to minimize financial worries during an already stressful time, and we offer representation in English, Spanish, and Russian to ensure every client feels heard, respected, and understood.

Our proven ability to navigate the particular processes of New York’s borough courts ensures efficient, effective representation, no matter the details of your case.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Penalties Can Violent Crime Charges Carry in New York?

Penalties for violent crimes in New York range from lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines to periods of probation or post-release supervision. Factors such as the severity of the offense, use of a weapon, and prior criminal history can significantly increase sentencing exposure.

Will My Case Be Handled in State or Federal Court?

The court jurisdiction is determined by the specific facts of each case. Most violent crimes are prosecuted under New York State law, but certain circumstances—like alleged offenses on federal property or those crossing state lines—may trigger federal prosecution.

How Does the Legal Process Move Forward After an Arrest?

Following arrest, the criminal process usually includes arraignment, possible bail hearings, pre-trial motions, and trial if required. Each phase under New York law is governed by strict timelines and procedural rules, making it crucial to have legal counsel at your side quickly.

Can Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed in Violent Crime Cases?

Charge reductions or dismissals are possible if legal defenses, evidentiary weaknesses, or procedural errors exist. The outcome will depend on the particular facts of your case as well as opportunities identified through detailed legal review and advocacy.

Is It Possible to Remove Violent Crime Charges from My Record?

In New York, the opportunity to seal a criminal record is limited based on the type of offense, the outcome, and your history. A thorough case review is necessary to determine eligibility for post-conviction relief or record sealing.

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They treated me wonderfully and helped me out of a bind. I feel that this firm really cares.

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Building a Strategic Defense For Violent Crime Charges

Our comprehensive defense includes a thorough investigation into every detail of your interaction with law enforcement and the events leading to your arrest. We address possible issues such as unlawful searches, improper Miranda warnings, or evidentiary errors that may influence the prosecution’s ability to use critical evidence. By drawing on multiple perspectives—including those of former prosecutors—we anticipate what strategies the opposing side may use and strengthen your legal position accordingly.

Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. As a seasoned violent crimes attorney in New York, we will leverage every possible defense, including:

Self-Defense or Defense of Others: We can argue that you were not the aggressor and that your actions were a reasonable response to the threat of physical harm from the alleged victim. New York law recognizes the right to use reasonable force in self-defense.
Lack of Intent or Mens Rea: We can argue that you lacked the necessary mental state to commit the crime. For example, if the act was an accident or a misunderstanding, it may not meet the legal definition of the charged offense.
Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We will argue that the evidence presented is not sufficient to meet this high standard, either because the witness testimony is inconsistent or the forensic evidence is flawed.
Mistaken Identity: We can argue that you have been misidentified as the person who committed the crime. This defense is particularly strong when the identification is based on a flawed witness lineup or a single, fleeting observation.
Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your rights, such as an unlawful search and seizure or a coerced confession.

Regular, direct communication means you always know where your case stands and what steps we’re taking on your behalf. We support you not only legally but also emotionally, helping you navigate the stress of criminal accusations and providing practical guidance on the collateral consequences you may be facing.

Contact a Violent Crime Lawyer in New York for Immediate Support

If you or someone close to you is confronting a violent crime charge, contacting a violent crime attorney in New York at Raiser and Kenniff, P.C. is the first step to protecting your rights and your future. When you reach out, you connect directly with an experienced attorney committed to clear answers, proactive guidance, and steady support through every legal challenge. Our approach provides responsive advocacy, frequent updates, and a commitment to personalized defense strategies.

Call (888) 646-0025 or reach out online to start your confidential consultation and move forward with confidence. We are ready to help navigate the complexities of New York’s criminal courts, offer clarity during uncertain times, and advocate tirelessly for your best possible outcome.

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