Riebling & Payton, PLLC Riebling & Payton, PLLC
Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor Attorneys Ready To Fight For You

Westchester County Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys

Compassionate Representation & Aggressive Advocacy

Notice: If you are needing to sue for damages or a victim of a crime please reach out to a civil attorney or the police.

A misdemeanor charge may not be as serious as a felony, but that does not mean that it should be taken lightly. Even misdemeanors can end up on your permanent criminal record if you are convicted, meaning that employers, financial institutions, and potential landlords will see your charge on background checks. If you are young, this can greatly affect your future and even make you ineligible for student financial aid.

Your future is important, and our Westchester County misdemeanor defense attorneys from Riebling & Payton, PLLC have over 50 years of combined experience defending hundreds of people throughout their criminal charges. We know that you may be scared or overwhelmed, and we will use our experience to make sure you have legal assistance every step of the way.

Call our office at (914) 712-6878 to seek representation from an experienced Westchester County misdemeanor lawyer. We offer free case evaluations and will even meet with you after-hours in our office in Mount Kisco or White Plains.

Should I Hire a Lawyer for Misdemeanor?

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in NY, one question that may be on your mind is whether or not you should hire a lawyer. While it is possible to defend yourself in court, having an experienced misdemeanor defense attorney by your side can greatly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, navigate the legal system, and negotiate with the prosecution. They can also provide valuable advice on how to present yourself in court and what to say when questioned by the judge. Overall, hiring a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge in Westchester County may seem expensive, but it can ultimately save you both time and money in the long run by helping you avoid a criminal record and other costly consequences.

Common Misdemeanor Charges in New York

Our founding attorney used to be a prosecutor for New York City in the narcotics division before she decided to become a criminal defense lawyer. This means that our attorneys can anticipate the prosecution's case against you, allowing us to help devise the strongest defense possible.

We can help you with a wide variety of misdemeanor charges in New York, including:

What are the Penalties for Misdemeanor Crimes in New York?

Misdemeanors are criminal offenses in New York that are less serious than felonies but still carry penalties such as fines and/or jail time. The specific penalties for misdemeanors can vary depending on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding it. Misdemeanors are categorized as Class A, B, or C in New York State.

Class A Misdemeanors

Class A misdemeanors include crimes such as assault, theft, and drug possession.

The penalties for a Class A misdemeanor in New York include:

  • Maximum jail sentence of up to 12 months
  • Fines of up to $1,000

Alternative sentences include three years' probation or a conditional discharge. Fines and mandatory state surcharges, community service, driver's license suspension and orders of protection may also apply given the circumstances. Furthermore, a criminal record can have a lasting impact on one's life, affecting employment and housing opportunities. 

Class B Misdemeanors

Offenses such as petit larceny, prostitution, and assault in the third degree are all considered class B misdemeanors.

The penalties for a Class B misdemeanor in New York include:

  • Maximum jail sentence of up to 90 days
  • Fines of up to $500

Alternative sentences include one year probation or a conditional discharge. Fines and mandatory state surcharges, community service and orders of protection may also apply given the circumstances. Additionally, the collateral consequences of a misdemeanor conviction can include difficulties finding employment or housing.

Class C Misdemeanors

Common examples of Class C misdemeanors include stalking, third-degree assault, and criminal mischief. Not all Class C misdemeanors are created equal. Some are more serious than others, and the penalties can vary depending on the specific offense.

The penalties for a Class C misdemeanor in New York include:

  • Up to 15 days in jail
  • Fines of up to $500

"Unclassified" Misdemeanors

This category includes some offenses that don't fit into Class A or Class B and are often subject to discretion by the judge.

The penalties for an unclassified misdemeanor in New York includes:

  • Maximum jail sentence of up to 12 months

Alternative sentences include three years' probation or a conditional discharge. Fines and mandatory state surcharges, driver's license revocation or suspension, ignition interlock device (for DWI convictions), community service and orders of protection may also apply given the circumstances.

Defending Misdemeanor Charges Throughout Mount Kisco & White Plains, NY

Misdemeanor charges are classified as crimes in New York State. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor crime contact our Westchester County criminal defense attorneys. We will work to successfully protect and defend your legal rights and interests. Speaking only to your attorney about your case is crucial as you do not want to make statements to anyone that may impact your defense. With 5 decades of experience, our attorneys have a thorough and complete understanding of how to successfully defend our clients against misdemeanor charges.

Our criminal defense attorneys include a former criminal prosecutor and they regularly practice in all of the Criminal Courts throughout Westchester County.

We are available 24/7 and offer free case evaluations. At Riebling & Payton, PLLC, our Westchester County criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to providing proven and aggressive legal defense that you can trust and rely upon. With law offices in Mount Kisco, NY and White Plains, New York we are uniquely capable of conveniently serving all of our clients in Northern Westchester and Southern Westchester.

Free Consultations For Misdemeanor Charges

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor crime, you should immediate consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at Riebling & Payton, PLLC. During the free consultation we will answer your questions and explain how we will protect your rights.

No matter your charge, you will know that you have a dedicated team of professionals personally working on your case. Our Westchester County misdemeanor lawyers take pride in the personal attention they gives to each matter, and they will talk with you directly to help you navigate every aspect of your charge and trial.

Call us to discuss your legal options with Riebling & Payton, PLLC. We’ll help you decide the best course of action in your misdemeanor case. Contact us now at (914) 712-6878 to speak with a misdemeanor attorney near you.

New York Misdemeanor Law

What should I do if I've been charged with a misdemeanor?

If you've been charged with a misdemeanor, it's essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A misdemeanor attorney can assess your case, explain your rights, and develop a strategic defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. Prompt action can help protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Can a misdemeanor conviction affect my future?

Yes, a misdemeanor conviction can have long-term consequences, including fines, probation, community service, and even jail time. Additionally, a misdemeanor conviction may appear on your criminal record, potentially impacting your employment opportunities, housing options, and professional licenses. Hiring a skilled misdemeanor attorney can help minimize these consequences and protect your future.

How can a misdemeanor attorney help with my case?

A misdemeanor attorney can provide comprehensive legal assistance at every stage of your case, from the initial arrest to plea negotiations and trial representation if necessary. They will thoroughly review the evidence against you, identify any legal issues or defenses, and advocate on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome, whether it's a dismissal, reduction of charges, or favorable plea agreement.

What are the potential defenses against misdemeanor charges?

Defenses against misdemeanor charges vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. Common defenses may include lack of evidence, mistaken identity, self-defense, illegal search and seizure, or procedural errors by law enforcement. A skilled criminal misdemeanor attorney will assess the facts of your case and develop a defense strategy aimed at achieving the most favorable result.

How much does it cost to hire a misdemeanor attorney?

The cost of hiring a misdemeanor attorney depends on factors such as the complexity of your case, the attorney's experience, and the location of the legal proceedings. At Riebling & Payton, PLLC, we offer transparent pricing and flexible payment options to ensure that quality legal representation is accessible to all individuals facing misdemeanor charges.

Can I handle my misdemeanor case without an attorney?

While it's possible to represent yourself in a misdemeanor case, it's not advisable. Misdemeanor cases can be complex, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe. By hiring an experienced criminal misdemeanor lawyer, you benefit from their legal knowledge, negotiation skills, and courtroom experience, increasing your chances of a favorable outcom

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