Staten Island Criminal Defense Lawyer

Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney in Staten Island

Facing criminal charges can affect your freedom, finances, employment, professional reputation, and family. However, being charged with a crime does not mean you are going to be convicted, and you do have the opportunity to defend against these charges. A Staten Island criminal defense lawyer can help you build a strategic defense that protects your rights and freedoms.

Why Choose Greco Neyland, PC?

Greco Neyland, PC is an experienced New York criminal defense firm. Our attorneys bring years of defense experience and have a deep understanding of New York criminal laws. Attorney Jeff Greco also has experience as a New York prosecutor, which allows him to understand how state prosecutors build criminal cases and how to recognize and challenge weaknesses.

Jeff Greco has received several awards and honors, including being recognized by Super Lawyers from 2020 to 2023 and being named as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer in America. However, awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.

Understanding Criminal Charges in Staten Island

Many people throughout Staten Island are charged with a crime. The crime rate in Staten Island is about 23.39 per 1,000 residents. These offenses can range from lower-level misdemeanors to serious felony allegations that carry higher penalties. No matter what type of offense you have been charged with, it is important to reach out to a Staten Island criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Some of the most common types of offenses we help clients with at Greco Neyland, PC, include:

• Driving while impaired (DWI): DWI involves driving while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Just over 30% of all accidents in New York involve an alcohol-impaired driver. A DWI conviction may carry unique penalties, including license revocation, drug or alcohol treatment programs, or installing an ignition interlock device.
• Drug crimes: Some examples of common drug crimes in Staten Island include possession, paraphernalia possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking charges.
• Violent crimes: Violent crimes involve the use or threat of force against another person. Common examples include assault, aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide. In Richmond County, there were 1,688 total violent crimes in 2025.
• Sex crimes: Sex-related allegations can involve offenses such as sexual assault or rape. Similarly, we also help individuals defend against domestic violence allegations such as stalking, domestic abuse, or sex crimes involving an intimate partner or household member.
• Theft and property crimes: Property crimes involve theft or damage to a person’s property, without direct violence against the person. Common examples include shoplifting, petit larceny, grand larceny, and burglary.

In Staten Island, many criminal cases are heard at the Richmond County Criminal Court at 26 Central Avenue. Here, the prosecution can present evidence and arguments against you in order to prove your guilt. However, you are also able to raise a defense against your charges.

Why Having a Strong Defense Strategy Matters in a Criminal Case

A criminal charge is not the same as a conviction. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must be able to prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, using reliable evidence surrounding the case. If the prosecution cannot meet this burden of proof, then you may be able to achieve more favorable outcomes, such as dismissed charges, reduced charges, or reduced sentences.

Having a strong defense strategy often involves identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case or negotiating with prosecutors for a positive outcome. The right strategy for your criminal case depends on the unique circumstances of the offense, the available evidence, and the type of offense you are charged with. Working with a Staten Island criminal defense lawyer can help you identify a defense strategy that is applicable to your case.

If you do not defend against your charges and are convicted of an offense, you can face severe, lasting consequences. This includes the immediate penalties imposed by a judge, such as jail time, probation, fines, restitution, and other court-ordered consequences. However, there are also long-term impacts of having a criminal record. Many convicted offenders face difficulties:

• Finding employment
• Securing housing
• Obtaining professional licenses
• Maintaining personal and family relationships

Even if the sentence for an offense does not seem severe, it is important to consider the long-term effects that a criminal record can have on your life. Because of both the immediate and lasting challenges, it is important to work to avoid a conviction.

Common Defense Strategies in a Criminal Case

No single defense works in every case, making it important to work with a lawyer who can tailor your strategy to the details of your case. Some of the most common defense strategies involve:

• Challenging an unlawful search or seizure: Law enforcement must follow strict criminal laws when collecting evidence. A lawyer can identify whether an officer violated your rights during a search or seizure, which may make the evidence obtained during the search inadmissible in court.
• Questioning the credibility of a witness: Many prosecutors rely on a witness’s testimony to prove the case. However, it is possible to challenge their credibility, such as by highlighting inconsistencies, inaccuracies, or providing contradictory evidence.
• Presenting an alibi: An alibi involves providing evidence that you were elsewhere when the offense was said to occur. This involves evidence of your actual location at a specific time, such as timestamped receipts, time clock records from your job, or witness statements.
• Developing an affirmative defense: An affirmative defense involves presenting a reason for your actions, rather than proving you did not commit the offense. Common examples of this type of defense include claiming self-defense or coercion.
• Negotiating a plea deal: Many criminal cases are settled through a plea deal rather than a trial or dismissal. A plea deal involves pleading guilty to lesser charges, reducing the penalties associated with a conviction.

Why It Is Important to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Trying to navigate criminal charges without a lawyer can be overwhelming, especially with New York’s complex criminal defense laws, strict court procedures and deadlines, and high-stakes court hearings. A lawyer provides guidance throughout this process, which allows you to feel confident that your rights are protected and that you are taking the necessary steps to defend against your charges.

Having a lawyer can also improve your ability to build a powerful defense. A lawyer can identify potential defense strategies that you may otherwise overlook. They can also build your defense by gathering supporting evidence and communicating with prosecutors and law enforcement throughout your case.

It is important to contact a Staten Island criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after you are arrested. Having a lawyer involved early in your criminal case can help you protect your rights, including your right against unlawful searches or seizures, and the right against self-incrimination. They can do this by explaining your rights, communicating on your behalf, and evaluating police conduct to identify any invasions of your rights.

FAQs

Is It Worth It to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

Yes, it is often worth it to hire a criminal defense attorney if you are under investigation or have been charged with a crime. Having a Staten Island criminal defense attorney can improve your chances of achieving a positive case outcome because they can investigate the allegations against you, identify potential defenses, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court.

What Is the Hardest Criminal Case to Beat?

There is no single type of criminal case that is always the hardest to defend. However, cases involving serious felony charges or substantial evidence can be more difficult. Even if you believe that the prosecution has a strong case or that your charges are too severe to be dropped or dismissed, you should still speak with an attorney. A lawyer can protect your rights while building a custom case strategy that reflects the unique details of your case.

What Should You Do If You Are Arrested in Staten Island?

If you are arrested in Staten Island, try to stay calm and comply with law enforcement. While you should comply with the arrest and basic booking procedures, such as providing your basic personal information, photographs, and fingerprints, avoid discussing the case. Instead, request to contact an attorney and then remain silent. Waiting for an attorney is your constitutional right and can help you avoid accidental self-incrimination.

What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony in New York?

In New York, misdemeanors are less serious offenses that carry lower potential penalties, while a felony is a more serious offense that results in higher penalties. Under New York’s criminal laws, misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail, while felonies may result in over one year in prison. Regardless of how severe your charges are, it is important to take your case seriously and build a strong defense.

Speak With a Staten Island Criminal Defense Attorney

The consequences of a criminal conviction can be severe, which is why it is so important to work with a skilled attorney who can help you build a strong defense. If you are ready to protect your rights while learning about your legal options for defending against criminal charges, contact Greco Neyland, PC.