Serious Criminal Charges Require Strategic Defense
Felony Charges defense in White Plains and surrounding areas for individuals facing significant sentencing exposure or incarceration
Law Office of Michael D. Litman, PLLC represents clients charged with felonies in White Plains, Peekskill, Harrison or a surrounding area, providing defense against allegations that carry potential prison terms, permanent criminal records, and long-term consequences for employment and civil rights. You may be facing charges involving violence, property crimes, drug offenses, or white-collar allegations, each requiring a different approach to investigation, motion practice, and negotiation. When an arrest involves accusations that could result in years of incarceration, the quality of your legal representation directly affects whether you go to trial, accept a plea, or see charges reduced or dismissed.
Felony defense involves examining arrest procedures, reviewing evidence for constitutional violations, filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained statements or physical evidence, and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case. The firm conducts a thorough investigation of witness credibility, forensic reports, and surveillance footage, then uses that information to negotiate with prosecutors or prepare for trial. New York's felony classification system ranges from Class E to Class A-I, with sentencing guidelines that vary based on prior convictions, the nature of the offense, and whether aggravating factors apply. Strategic negotiation may result in charge reduction to a misdemeanor, alternative sentencing, or dismissal if the evidence does not support the allegations.
If you are under investigation or have been arrested on felony charges, contact the firm to review the charges, the evidence, and the available defense strategies.
How Felony Defense Protects Against Conviction and Sentencing
Your attorney will file motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence, including statements made without proper Miranda warnings, searches conducted without a warrant, and identification procedures that may have been suggestive or coercive. This motion practice can result in suppression of key evidence, which often leads to reduced charges or case dismissal. When the prosecution's case relies on physical evidence obtained during a traffic stop, a search of your home, or a custodial interrogation, the legality of those actions becomes a focal point of defense.
After motion decisions are issued, you will see whether the prosecution can proceed with its original charges or must negotiate. Law Office of Michael D. Litman, PLLC works to reduce sentencing exposure through plea negotiations that may include diversion programs, conditional discharge, or time-served arrangements. If a trial becomes necessary, the firm prepares by interviewing witnesses, consulting with experts, and developing a narrative that challenges the prosecution's version of events. You will know whether the case is heading toward resolution or trial based on the strength of the suppression rulings and the prosecutor's willingness to negotiate.
Trial preparation includes jury selection strategy, cross-examination plans, and opening and closing arguments tailored to the specific charges. The firm does not handle cases outside New York State, and representation does not extend to federal charges or matters in jurisdictions outside the firm's practice area. Defense work focuses on protecting your constitutional rights, minimizing sentencing exposure, and preserving your ability to work, travel, and maintain custody or visitation rights after the case concludes.
Felony cases in New York involve multiple stages, and the questions below address common concerns about the defense process, timing, and outcomes.
What You Should Know About Felony Defense
Your attorney files a motion to suppress that evidence, and if the motion is granted, the prosecution may be unable to prove its case, leading to reduced charges or dismissal.
What happens if evidence was obtained without a warrant?
New York uses a predicate felon analysis, meaning prior convictions within a certain time frame increase the mandatory minimum sentence and limit eligibility for probation or conditional discharge.
How does prior criminal history affect sentencing?
You should consider trial if the prosecution's evidence is weak, witness testimony is inconsistent, or suppression motions significantly undermine the case, and the offered plea does not reflect the actual strength of the allegations.
When should you consider going to trial?
A felony conviction in New York results in a permanent criminal record, potential state prison time, loss of voting rights while incarcerated, and restrictions on firearm ownership, while a misdemeanor typically allows for local jail sentences and fewer collateral consequences.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor conviction?
The arraignment is where bail is set, charges are formally read, and your attorney can begin challenging the prosecution's detention request and reviewing the criminal complaint for factual or legal deficiencies.
Why does the arraignment matter?
If you have been charged with a felony or are under investigation, reach out to the Law Office of Michael D. Litman, PLLC to discuss the charges, the evidence against you, and the steps required to mount a thorough defense. Early representation allows for timely motions and more effective negotiation before the case progresses to trial.