Burglary Lawyer New York County, NY

A charge of burglary in New York County (Manhattan) carries serious consequences that can follow you for years. The district attorney’s office prosecutes these cases actively, and the court at 60 Centre Street—the New York County Supreme Court—handles felony-level matters with strict attention to the elements of the offense. Whether you are facing allegations of breaking into a commercial property, a residence, or a vehicle, the classification and potential penalties depend on the circumstances alleged. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., draws on experience as a former prosecutor to help clients evaluate the charges against them. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Burglary Means in New York County, New York

Under the New York Penal Law, burglary is defined as knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime inside. The degree of the charge—third, second, or first—turns on aggravating factors such as whether the building was a dwelling, whether a weapon was displayed, or whether another person was injured. Manhattan prosecutors evaluate these factors when deciding what charges to present, and the grand jury process in New York County can bring felony-level accusations quickly.

Under New York law, felony sentences are tiered by class: a Class E felony carries a maximum of four years, while a Class B felony can carry up to 25 years of imprisonment. Burglary in the first degree is a Class B violent felony.

Source: New York Penal Law, Article 70. N.Y. Penal Law § 70.00

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

The court at 60 Centre Street handles felony burglary cases on the Supreme Court’s criminal term. Misdemeanor-level cases—such as third-degree burglary where the building was not a dwelling—may be heard in the New York County Criminal Court. The courtroom procedures and the timeline for discovery, motions, and trial are shaped by the Criminal Procedure Law and the practices of the 1st Judicial District. Our New York location serves Manhattan and surrounding neighborhoods, including Midtown, the Upper East Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, and the Financial District.

New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for many non-violent offenses. In burglary cases, whether bail is set depends on the indictment, the defendant’s history, and the specific allegations. Many clients are initially released on their own recognizance, while others may face bail applications argued before a judge. An experienced criminal defense attorney can explain these dynamics and help a client prepare for the court’s expectations in New York County.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Burglary Cases

Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, approaches each burglary matter by examining the evidence the prosecution intends to use. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Investigates the circumstances of the alleged entry, the identification procedures used, and any statements obtained by law enforcement. Because burglary charges often involve property-related and personal testimony, the firm works with independent investigators and attorneys to test the prosecution’s case.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear in New York County courts on these matters, with Mr. Sris providing strategic direction. The defense may involve challenging the element of intent, demonstrating that the entry was lawful, or exposing weaknesses in the chain of custody for physical evidence. Every case is different, and the approach is tailored to the specific factual record. Clients are kept informed throughout the process, which typically begins with a consultation to review the charges and discuss possible outcomes. Results vary; prior outcomes do not guarantee a similar result.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997 and is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His background as a former prosecutor informs his understanding of how the government builds burglary cases in Manhattan. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive experience in criminal defense and handle matters in multiple jurisdictions. The team is available by appointment at the firm’s New York location and can be reached at (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is burglary under New York law?

Burglary requires knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully in a building with intent to commit a crime inside. Under the New York Penal Law, the offense is divided into three degrees based on aggravating factors such as the presence of a weapon, whether the building was a dwelling, and whether anyone was injured. The more serious the circumstances, the higher the felony class and potential sentence.

What are the penalties for burglary in Manhattan?

Third-degree burglary is a Class D felony carrying up to seven years, while first-degree burglary is a Class B violent felony carrying up to 25 years. Sentencing judges in New York County consider the defendant’s criminal history, the facts of the case, and any mitigating arguments presented by defense counsel. A conviction may also bring mandatory surcharges, orders of protection, and long-term consequences for employment and housing.

Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in New York County?

Having experienced legal counsel can help you understand the charges, evaluate the evidence, and develop a defense strategy. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office pursues burglary cases vigorously, and the procedural rules in Supreme Court and Criminal Court are complex. An attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor, challenge the admissibility of evidence, and advise you on whether to accept a plea offer or proceed to trial.

How does the court process work for a burglary case in Manhattan?

After an arrest, the defendant is arraigned—often within 24 hours—and the court determines bail or release conditions. For felony charges, the case proceeds to a grand jury. If indicted, the matter moves to New York County Supreme Court. The timeline for motions, hearings, and trial varies by the complexity of the case and the court’s calendar. ACD (Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal) is typically not available for felony burglary charges.

What defenses apply to a burglary charge?

Common defenses include lack of intent, lawful right to enter, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence of an underlying crime. If the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intended to commit a crime inside the building, the burglary charge may be reduced or dismissed. Other defenses may involve challenging the legality of a search or the reliability of witness identification.

How do I find a burglary lawyer in New York County?

Look for an attorney with experience handling burglary cases in Manhattan’s Supreme Court and Criminal Court. Verify that the lawyer is admitted to practice in New York and has familiarity with the 1st Judicial District’s procedures. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Official Resources: For court information, visit the New York County Supreme Court. The New York State Courts website provides procedural guidance and forms.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary. Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.