After being charged with a felony in New York City, it is crucial to act swiftly to protect your rights. Above all, do not make any statements to law enforcement officers without legal representation present. Anything you say can—and likely will—be used against you in court. It is imperative to remain silent and request to speak with your felony criminal defense attorney in New York City immediately.

Contact H. Benjamin Perez & Associates, P.C. as soon as possible to secure seasoned legal counsel who can guide you through the early stages of the criminal process, including bail hearings and arraignment proceedings. Your future may depend on the actions you take in these first critical moments.

A felony conviction can significantly impact nearly every aspect of your life. Beyond the possibility of serving jail or prison time, you may face lasting limitations in employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony record can disqualify you from positions—especially those involving trust, security clearance, or sensitive information.

Moreover, certain civil rights, such as the right to vote, serve on a jury, or own a firearm, may be revoked or restricted following a conviction. These consequences can extend far beyond the courtroom, shaping your future for years to come. That’s why it is critical to secure a strong legal defense from a knowledgeable felony lawyer in New York City who can fight to mitigate or avoid these lifelong repercussions.

Felony charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed, but this largely depends on the specific circumstances of the offense and the legal strategy employed. Factors such as insufficient evidence, procedural errors during the arrest, or violations of constitutional rights can play a critical role in pursuing a favorable outcome.

At H. Benjamin Perez & Associates, P.C., our attorneys meticulously examine every detail of your case to uncover potential errors or mitigating factors that could work to your advantage. We are committed to exploring all legal avenues, whether that means negotiating a favorable plea deal or challenging evidence in court, to achieve the best possible resolution for our clients.

Bail hearings play a critical role in felony cases by determining whether a defendant may be released from custody while awaiting trial. During the hearing, a judge evaluates multiple factors, including the severity of the charges, the defendant’s criminal history, and the risk of flight, before setting bail.

A well-prepared defense can have a significant impact on the judge’s decision. At H. Benjamin Perez & Associates, P.C., we craft thorough, persuasive presentations to advocate for reasonable bail terms, aiming to help our clients retain their freedom as they prepare to mount an effective legal defense.

The arraignment is the first formal proceeding following an arrest, during which the charges are read and the defendant enters a plea. This stage is critical, as it sets the tone for the remainder of the legal process.

At H. Benjamin Perez & Associates, P.C., we ensure our clients are fully prepared for arraignment, with a clear understanding of the charges and their potential consequences. Our presence at this stage allows us to immediately begin building a strategic defense, negotiating plea options, and identifying opportunities to seek charge reductions, where applicable. From the very first step, our goal is to safeguard our clients’ rights and lay the foundation for a strong legal outcome.