Mount Vernon Criminal Defense Lawyer

---

If you were arrested in Mount Vernon or have an upcoming case in Mount Vernon City Court, you need an aggressive local criminal defense lawyer who isn’t afraid to stand up and fight back against an unjust criminal legal system. 

My name is Michael J. McConnell, and I’m a criminal defense lawyer here in Westchester County. I have successfully defended people facing criminal charges in Mount Vernon, across Westchester County, and throughout New York City. I handle everything from misdemeanors to serious violent felonies. So whatever you’re charged with, I’m ready to stand up for you.  

I’m also a former prosecutor, which means that I know through experience how criminal cases are built, where they are weak, and how to tear those weaknesses apart as your defense attorney. Whatever the prosecutor throws at us, we’ll be ready for it. I know their game plan and how to fight back. 

I know if you’re reading this right now, you’re probably really worried about what comes next. The good news is that I offer free consultations, so you can pick up the phone right now to request one. My office answers 24/7 – including nights, weekends, and holidays.

The sooner we talk, the more I can help you. Don’t wait – there’s too much at stake. Your freedom and your future are too important. 

Get the strong legal representation you need. Contact Mount Vernon criminal defense lawyer Michael J. McConnell today for a free and confidential consultation by calling (914) 810-0510 or by sending us a message by clicking on the button below.

Facing a criminal charge is one of the most difficult things to go through in life. It can be scary. It can be embarrassing. And you might not know where to turn next. It might even feel like the whole system is against you. 

My job is to help you. Regardless of what someone is accusing you of, I’ll never judge you. Whether you’re wrongfully accused or simply made a mistake, I’ll fight for you with all of my being. You deserve to have someone on your side fighting back against a coercive and unjust criminal legal system. 

My approach is simple. I bring these three key principles to every case that I take: 

• Non-judgment: I meet every client with respect, compassion, and zero judgment.
• Clear and direct legal guidance: I make sure you always know what to expect and will explain things clearly. 
• Thorough Preparation: Every case is treated seriously, which means that I prepare for trial from day one. I never take chances. Too much is at stake. 

If you hire me as your lawyer, you can count on me taking the time to understand your life, your concerns, and your side of the story. We will build a strong defense together, and you’ll be fully informed every step of the way. I’ll fight hard for you and will aggressively push back against police misconduct and prosecutorial overreach. 

So if you need a local criminal defense lawyer who will be 100% on your side, give me a call today at (914) 810-0510. 

One of the biggest mistakes someone can make is waiting too long to get the legal representation they need. 

Whether you think you might be under investigation or have already been arrested, there’s never going to be a better moment to call a local Westchester County criminal defense attorney than right now. 

Before Arrest (pre-arrest representation)

Calling me before you are arrested is definitely the best time to call me. It can make a huge difference. 

For example, if you call me before an arrest, I can: 

· communicate with detectives from the Mount Vernon Police Department

· invoke your right to remain silent and thus protect you from saying something that hurts your case

· negotiate voluntary surrender if needed

· try to stop charges from being filed at all

Right After Arrest

The next best time to call is immediately after you or a loved one is arrested. Early action allows me to:

· argue for your release at arraignment or ask for lower bail (if the charge is bail eligible)

· preserve evidence (e.g., video footage, etc.)

· contact witnesses while memories are fresh

· reach out to the DA’s Office early before they form strong opinions about the case

Cases Pending for Months or Heading Towards Trial

Even if your case has been dragging on for months or is getting close to trial, I can still step in. I frequently take over cases in the later stages, though of course my preference is always to be on the case early. That’s because the sooner I’m involved, the more of an impact I can usually have. So if you’re thinking about calling, it’s best to call now. 

The criminal legal system can be quite confusing, especially to those who have been arrested for the first time. Here are some of the most important things you’ll want to know. 

Misdemeanor vs. Felony

· Misdemeanors are punishable by up to 364 days in jail

· Felonies carry state prison exposure over one year (sometimes many years) and much harsher long-term consequences. 

Both felonies and misdemeanors can affect immigration, employment, housing, professional licensing, and your future in ways that go far beyond jail. 

While a felony conviction will generally have a more severe impact than a misdemeanor, the truth is that a misdemeanor conviction can have devastating consequences as well. 

So regardless of whether you’re charged with a felony or a misdemeanor, you need to take it seriously. 

Arrest

Police either arrest at the scene or after an investigation. You will then be fingerprinted and processed. Anything you say can be used against you, which is why exercising your right to remain silent and asking for a lawyer early matters.

Arraignment

This is your first court appearance in Mount Vernon City Court. You’ll be told what you’re being charged with and advised of your rights. The judge will then address bail or release conditions. If the alleged victim is a family member or somebody known to you, the judge may issue a temporary order of protection prohibiting you from contacting them or going anywhere near them. 

While the arraignment might only be the first step in the court proceedings, it can often be a very critical one – especially if the judge might set bail. That’s why it’s almost always advantageous to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer lined up before you get into court. 

Felony preliminary hearing

In certain felony cases, there may be a hearing to determine whether reasonable cause exists to hold the case for the grand jury. This is also an opportunity for your defense attorney to cross-examine witnesses and lock in testimony. 

Grand jury

For felonies, the prosecution may present the case to a grand jury. The grand jury decides whether to return an indictment. In some cases, strategic choices at this stage can shape the entire case. If your case is indicted, it will be transferred from Mount Vernon City Court to Westchester County court in White Plains. 

Discovery

This is when the Westchester DA”s Office sends over their evidence to the defense. I always carefully examine all video footage (including police body worn camera footage), police paperwork, lab results, witness statements, digital evidence, and more. A truly diligent review of all discovery can result in finding weaknesses, suppression issues, and major inconsistencies. 

Motion Practice and Pre-trial hearings

We can challenge the legality of stops, searches, statements, and identifications. These hearings can lead to evidence being thrown out. Depending on how critical the suppressed evidence was to the case, sometimes cases can be dismissed at this stage. And even if not dismissed, sometimes suppression can make the case much weaker for the prosecution, which might make them consider making you a more favorable plea offer. 

Plea negotiations

Plea negotiations can happen at any point in the process. In fact, sometimes the best time to negotiate is actually pre-indictment. Other times, it’s better to do it later. Every case is different. The key is to have a trusted defense attorney on your side who knows how to gain leverage throughout the process to get you a favorable deal if appropriate. 

Trial

If your case goes to trial, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. At trial, a good criminal defense attorney will aggressively challenge their evidence, skillfully cross-examine witnesses, and persuasively present a strong defense to the jury. 

Sentencing

If there is a conviction or plea, the judge imposes a sentence. This could be incarceration, probation, community service, or a number of other forms of punishment depending on the offense you’re convicted of, your prior criminal record (if any), and the underlying facts of the case. Preparation and advocacy are critical to minimize consequences. Mitigation can also play a major role in certain cases. 

Appeal

In some cases, there are grounds to appeal. Post-conviction work may also include motions to vacate or seal records when possible.

I handle all levels of misdemeanors and felonies in Mount Vernon and throughout Westchester County, including the following types of offenses: 

Misdemeanors 

· Assault in the Third Degree – PL 120.00

· Criminal Contempt in the Second Degree – PL 215.50

· Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree – PL 145.00

· Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree – PL 220.03

· Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Fifth Degree – PL 165.40

· Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree – PL 140.15

· Criminal Trespass in the Third Degree – PL 140.10

· Domestic Violence Misdemeanors (various offenses such as those stated here but committed against a family member or intimate partner)

· DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)) – VTL 1192

· Endangering the Welfare of a Child – PL 260.10

· Forcible Touching – PL 130.52

· Forgery in the Third Degree – PL 170.05

· Harassment in the First Degree – PL 240.25

· Menacing in the Second Degree – PL 120.14

· Petit Larceny – PL 155.25

· Resisting Arrest – PL 205.30

· Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree – PL 130.60

· Sexual Misconduct – PL 130.20

· Obstructing Governmental Administration in the Second Degree – PL 195.05

Felonies

· Assault in the First Degree – PL 120.10

· Assault in the Second Degree – PL 120.05

· Burglary in the Second Degree – PL 140.25

· Burglary in the Third Degree – PL 140.20

· Criminal Contempt in the First Degree – PL 215.51

· Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree – PL 145.10

· Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree – PL 220.16

· Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree – PL 265.03

· Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree – PL 265.02

· Domestic Violence Felonies (various felony offenses committed against a family member or intimate partner)

· Grand Larceny in the Third Degree – PL 155.35

· Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree – PL 155.30

· Robbery in the First Degree – PL 160.15

· Robbery in the Second Degree – PL 160.10

· Strangulation in the Second Degree – PL 121.12

The bulk of these offenses I have handled on both sides of the courtroom – first as a prosecutor and now as a criminal defense attorney. In particular, I have significant experience with domestic violence offenses, assault charges of all levels, and gun possession cases (CPW). 

So if you’re looking to hire a local attorney who can see the case from all angles, be sure to make me your first call today. I’ll help you understand what you’re facing, how I can help, and what the next steps are to move forward. 

Call me now at (914) 810-0510 to request your free case evaluation. 

Legal fees vary because every case and every lawyer is different.

The different types of fee structures criminal law attorneys in Westchester County might use include:

· flat fees

· hourly billing

· retainers that are replenished

· payment plans or split-payments

Some require the full fee up front. Others may accept a certain percentage down (e.g., 50% is fairly common), with the balance paid over time. There might also be additional fees owed if the case goes to trial since that will require significant preparation and time spent in court. 

In general, this is a rough guideline of what you can probably expect in terms of overall cost when all is said and done on your case for a criminal defense attorney in Mount Vernon, NY: 

· most misdemeanors cost several thousand dollars (maybe somewhere between $2,000 to $7,000 for certain cases, but sometimes a little more for more complicated ones)

· felonies typically cost significantly more (e.g., it can easily be $10,000 or even much more for serious or complex cases)

My approach to fees is always transparent and any client I take on will get a fee agreement document to sign that clearly outlines the scope of the representation as well as the fee amount so that there are no surprises or misunderstandings when it comes to cost. Indeed, the last thing you need when facing a criminal prosecution is a surprise bill since this situation is stressful enough. 

If you call me for a free consultation, I’ll always provide you with a personalized quote for legal fees based on a number of factors, including the charges and the complexity of the case. I don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Sometimes I’m able to offer a few different options in terms of fee structure so that the potential client can select the option that works best for them. 

In certain qualifying cases and for qualifying clients, I may offer a payment plan, especially if I’m hired early in the case. If the case is already near the trial stage by the time I’m hired, payment plans are usually not going to work. 

I’ll also add that if you cannot afford an attorney, the court will appoint a public defender at no cost, so you will not be without representation. 

If you want a private lawyer who will fight aggressively for you but are not sure whether you can afford it, call me anyway. The consultation is free, so let’s see if we can find a way to make it work. 

Here are some of the most common things people want to know after an arrest based on my experience as a criminal defense attorney serving Mount Vernon and the surrounding area.

Where is Mount Vernon City Court located?

The address for Mount Vernon City Court is 2 Roosevelt Square North, 2ndFloor, Mount Vernon, NY 10550. 

The court is accessible through the Bee-Line Bus System and Metro North Train. Parking is available in the municipal lot, which is across the street from the court. 

The phone number for the court is (914) 831-6440. For criminal matters specifically, you can also call (914) 831-6420. 

Where is the Mount Vernon Police Department located?

The police department for Mount Vernon is located in the same building as the Mount Vernon City Court. The address is 2 Roosevelt Square, Mount Vernon, NY 10550. 

If you’ve been contacted by the police for questioning or to turn yourself in for an arrest, it is strongly recommended that you call a local criminal defense lawyer first. The Law Office of Michael J. McConnell is available 24/7 to speak with you for a free consultation if you’ve been contacted by the police in Mount Vernon, NY. 

Who prosecutes criminal cases in Mount Vernon?

The Westchester County District Attorney’s Office is in charge of prosecuting criminal cases arising out of Mount Vernon. The DA’s Office has a branch office located inside the Mount Vernon City Court building as well. 

Do I need a criminal defense lawyer if I’m facing misdemeanor charges in Mt. Vernon City Court? 

Yes. Criminal charges are serious. A misdemeanor conviction can give you a criminal record and can be punishable up to 364 days in jail. Don’t make the mistake of thinking a misdemeanor isn’t serious. 

Does the Law Office of Michael J. McConnell handle Desk Appearance Tickets (DATs)? 

Yes. And by the way, don’t make the mistake of thinking a DAT isn’t serious. All a DAT does is let you come to your first court appearance on your own rather than be brought into court right after your arrest. You’re still facing criminal charges and they could be for either misdemeanors or felonies. So if you’ve receive a DAT in Mount Vernon, make me your first call to ensure your rights are protected. 

What happens at my first court date? 

Your first appearance is called the arraignment, where charges are read and bail or release conditions are set. You’ll typically enter a plea of not guilty and the case will be adjourned to a future court date for further proceedings. 

It’s important to realize that your arraignment is not a trial, so you will not have witnesses testifying against you or anything like that. Nor is arraignment the time and place for your attorney to raise any defenses or argue about the facts of the case to the judge unless absolutely necessary for some very limited purpose (for example, to support an argument to have you released on your own recognizance if the prosecutor is asking for bail to be set). 

The arraignment will typically be a very quick appearance – sometimes only lasting a few minutes besides any time spent waiting for your case to be called. And in most instances, you want your arraignment to be quick as that typically means you’re being released on your own recognizance while your case proceeds in court. 

Can I go to jail for a first offense?

It depends on the charge and your criminal history, but jail is not automatic. A strong defense can help you avoid incarceration or even ending up with a criminal record at all. Every case is different, which is why it is so important to speak with a trusted criminal defense lawyer as early as possible so that you know what to expect. 

Will my employer find out?

Pending criminal cases are a matter of public record, and background checks may reveal that you have an open case. If your case is later dismissed and sealed, it should not show up on background checks. If you’re convicted, however, it will show on most background checks. That’s why avoiding a criminal conviction can be so important since the consequences go far beyond just the potential for incarceration. With so much at stake for your future, you want to make sure you get the legal representation that you need from the start. 

What if I missed my court date?

A bench warrant may be issued for your arrest. If this happened to you, it is strongly recommended that you contact a lawyer immediately. 

Can you help if I was arrested in Mount Vernon but live out of town?

Yes. It is not uncommon for people to be arrested while simply visiting Mount Vernon or passing through. Whether you live nearby in the Bronx, elsewhere in Westchester, or out of state, I can represent you on your case in Mount Vernon City Court. 

What should I expect at the free consultation? 

We will talk about your charges, your court date, and what to expect. I’ll meet you with nonjudgment and compassion. I’ll listen to everything you have to say. I’ll answer your questions and help you understand your options. I’ll give you a personalized quote for legal services that will be transparent and straightforward. 

If at that point you’re ready to move forward, I’ll send you a fee agreement letter outlining the scope of the representation and the fee structure. Once signed and the initial payment is made, I’ll be representing you and will move quickly to protect your rights from day one.  

You don’t have to face this alone. I’m here for you and ready to help. 

If you were arrested in Mount Vernon, have an upcoming court date, or believe you are under investigation, call 24/7 for a free consultation. 

You deserve a strong defense. Let me fight for you.  

Disclaimer: This page and its contents are for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be considered legal advice. If you need legal advice, you should immediately contact an attorney who can speak with you privately about the unique facts of your case.