Fraud Defense Lawyer New York County, NY
A fraud charge in New York County (Manhattan) carries serious consequences, from a permanent criminal record to incarceration and significant fines. If you are under investigation or have been arrested for fraud, forgery, identity theft, or any related offense, the actions you take now can affect the outcome of your case. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in Manhattan facing fraud allegations prosecuted in the New York County Supreme Court at 60 Centre Street and the NYC Criminal Court. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring experience to criminal defense matters, including fraud cases involving false pretenses, forgery, identity fraud, and financial crimes. The firm practices in New York, Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and New Jersey. To schedule a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Fraud Defense Means in New York County (Manhattan)
Fraud offenses in New York are prosecuted under the New York Penal Law (PEN) and the Criminal Procedure Law (CPL). The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office handles state-level prosecutions, while the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York handles federal fraud cases. Fraud charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on the alleged conduct, the amount involved, and the defendant’s criminal history.
In New York County, fraud cases are typically adjudicated in the New York County Supreme Court Criminal Term for felony charges and the NYC Criminal Court in Manhattan for misdemeanor-level offenses. The court at 60 Centre Street serves as the primary venue for felony matters. New York’s bail reform laws, enacted in 2020, eliminated cash bail for most non-violent felonies and misdemeanors, meaning many defendants are released on their own recognizance or with non-monetary conditions. For certain fraud charges, an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) may be available, allowing charges to be dismissed after a period of good behavior. The firm’s New York location serves clients throughout Manhattan, including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, the Financial District, and other neighborhoods.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Fraud Defense Cases
Fraud defense requires a careful review of the prosecution’s evidence, an understanding of the applicable statutes, and a strategy tailored to the specific allegations. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys examine every element of the charge, including whether the prosecution can establish the required intent, whether the alleged misrepresentation meets the statutory definition, and whether any procedural or evidentiary issues exist. The defense approach may involve challenging the sufficiency of the evidence, negotiating with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, or preparing the case for trial when that serves the client’s interests.
The firm handles a range of fraud matters, including false pretenses, forgery, identity theft, credit card fraud, and related financial offenses. Each case is evaluated individually, and the defense strategy is developed based on the facts, the strength of the evidence, and the applicable law. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work to protect the client’s rights throughout the proceedings, from the initial investigation through any court appearances. The firm’s five-jurisdiction practice, including New York, allows the team to address fraud matters with an understanding of multi-state implications where they arise.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, Mr. Sris concentrates his practice on criminal defense, including fraud and financial crime matters. He is admitted in New York, Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and New Jersey. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring experience to criminal defense matters, including fraud cases. Collectively, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. The firm maintains a New York location to serve clients in Manhattan and throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common types of fraud charges in New York County?
Common fraud charges in New York County include false pretenses, forgery, identity theft, credit card fraud, and insurance fraud, prosecuted under the New York Penal Law. Fraud charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the value of the property or money involved and the nature of the alleged misrepresentation. False pretenses under the Penal Law involves obtaining property through a fraudulent statement. Forgery charges relate to the falsification of documents, checks, or other written instruments. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office also prosecutes identity theft and financial fraud cases. Each charge carries specific elements the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am under investigation for fraud in Manhattan?
If you are under investigation for fraud in Manhattan, you should exercise your right to remain silent and consult with an experienced defense attorney before speaking with law enforcement. Anything you say to investigators can be used against you in court. Fraud investigations often involve extensive documentary evidence, including bank records, emails, and financial statements. The earlier an attorney becomes involved, the more opportunity there is to address the investigation before charges are filed. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, evaluate the scope of the investigation, and advise you on how to proceed without inadvertently harming your position. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can fraud charges be dismissed in New York County?
Fraud charges can be dismissed if the prosecution’s evidence is insufficient, if procedural violations occurred, or through negotiation resulting in a reduction or dismissal. New York courts also offer an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for certain first-time offenses, where charges are dismissed after a period of good behavior, typically six to twelve months. The availability of an ACD depends on the specific charge, the defendant’s criminal history, and other factors. Dismissal may also result from successful pre-trial motions challenging the indictment, evidence suppression motions, or successful negotiation with the prosecutor. Each case is different, and prior outcomes do not guarantee a similar result. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between state and federal fraud charges in New York?
State fraud charges in New York are prosecuted by the Manhattan District Attorney under the New York Penal Law, while federal fraud charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York under federal statutes such as mail fraud or wire fraud. Federal charges generally carry more severe penalties, including longer potential sentences and the absence of parole. Federal fraud cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, located at 500 Pearl Street in Manhattan. Federal investigations often involve agencies such as the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division. The procedural rules differ between state and federal court, and a defense strategy must account for the specific court in which the case is pending.
How does a lawyer defend against fraud charges in New York County?
A defense attorney defends against fraud charges by examining the evidence, challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove the required intent to defraud, and asserting any applicable procedural or constitutional defenses. Many fraud charges require proof that the defendant acted with intent to deceive or defraud, not merely that a mistake or misunderstanding occurred. The defense may challenge the reliability of documentary evidence, question witness credibility, or demonstrate that the alleged conduct does not meet the statutory definition of the charged offense. Additionally, a defense attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction of charges, explore diversion programs where available, or prepare the case for trial. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Related practice areas:
Kings County (Brooklyn) Criminal Lawyer | Queens County Criminal Lawyer | Richmond County Criminal Lawyer | Nassau County Criminal Lawyer | Suffolk County Criminal Lawyer
New York legal resources:
New York Penal Law | New York Criminal Procedure Law | New York State Courts
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.