Queens Major Crimes Defense Attorney

Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney Working With Major Crimes in Queens, NY

While all criminal charges are serious, certain types of crimes can result in especially severe consequences. These "major crimes," which may be prosecuted at the state or federal level, can lead to lengthy prison sentences, large fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you have been accused of a felony or are facing federal charges, it is crucial to secure representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney.

At The Charrington Firm, we work with clients throughout the state of New York to defend against serious criminal charges. With more than 20 years of experience, including serving as a prosecutor in the Major Case Trial Bureau at the Bronx District Attorney's Office, Attorney Karen Charrington understands the legal issues involved in these cases and the best defense strategies to help avoid a conviction.

Felony Offenses in New York

Serious crimes are typically classified as felonies, and a conviction for these crimes can result in a jail sentence of one year or more. Felonies in New York are grouped into the following classes:

• Class E felonies - These offenses include third-degree rape, persistent sexual abuse, second-degree stalking, unlawful imprisonment that puts a person at risk of serious injury, grand larceny involving property worth more than $1,000, residential mortgage fraud resulting in proceeds of more than $1,000, identity theft that causes financial losses of at least $500 to another person, and patronizing a prostitute who is under the age of 15. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to four years.
• Class D felonies - These offenses include first-degree vehicular assault, second-degree vehicular manslaughter, second-degree assault, third-degree burglary, grand larceny involving property worth more than $3,000, computer tampering that causes damages of over $3,000, third-degree robbery, fifth-degree possession or sale of controlled substances, or promoting a sexual performance by a child. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to seven years.
• Class C felonies -These offenses include aggravated vehicular assault, first-degree vehicular manslaughter, third-degree arson, grand larceny involving property worth more than $50,000, insurance fraud involving proceeds of more than $50,000, fourth-degree possession or sale of controlled substances, or compelling a person to engage in prostitution by force. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years. Violent felonies, including second-degree robbery or burglary, second-degree aggravated manslaughter, or second-degree aggravated sexual abuse, may result in a minimum prison sentence of 3.5 years.
• Class B felonies - These offenses include aggravated vehicular homicide, grand larceny involving property worth more than $1 million, third-degree possession or sale of controlled substances, or sex trafficking. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to 25 years. Violent felonies, including first-degree assault, first-degree manslaughter, second-degree kidnapping, first-degree robbery or burglary, second-degree arson, or first-degree aggravated sexual abuse, may result in a minimum prison sentence of five years.
• Class A felonies - These are the most serious offenses, and they can result in a sentence of up to life in prison. Offenses classified as Class A-I felonies, including first-degree or second-degree murder, first-degree arson, first-degree possession or sale of controlled substances, first-degree kidnapping, and terrorism, carry a minimum prison sentence of 15 years. Offenses classified as Class A-II felonies, including second-degree possession or sale of controlled substances, carry a minimum prison sentence of three years. The minimum sentence for a predatory sexual assault conviction is 10 years.

If major crimes take place across state lines or involve violations of federal laws, an offender may face federal criminal charges. In these cases, the potential penalties can be even more severe, and federal sentencing guidelines contain mandatory minimum sentences that must be imposed upon conviction. 

Contact Our New York Major Crimes Defense Lawyers

In cases involving allegations of serious crimes, law enforcement officials and prosecutors are likely to strongly pursue convictions and harsh sentences. To ensure that your rights are protected, you need a highly experienced defense attorney on your side. The Charrington Firm, P.C. is prepared to work with you to build a defense strategy that will help you minimize the potential consequences you may face. Contact our office at 718-528-4422 to schedule a free consultation today.