Violent Felonies in New York

---

When you hear the term violent felony, it sounds scary. And in New York, it is. A violent felony is one of the most serious charges you can face. The laws in New York are tough, the sentences are long, and if you have a past record, the risks only get worse.

Yet as serious as a violent felony charge is, there are ways to aggressively defend against them. A diligent and thorough attorney can evaluate the evidence against you and begin building a strong defense from day one. So don’t wait to get the legal assistance that you need. 

If you or someone you love has been charged with a violent felony, contact the Law Office of Michael J. McConnell today for a free consultation at (914) 810-0510. 

Violent felonies cover a wide range of crimes. Even if no one was hurt, the law may still call it a violent felony. Some of the most common charges include:

• Assault in the First or Second Degree – Causing serious physical injury, often with a weapon.
• Robbery – Stealing while using or threatening force. Robbery in the First or Second Degree is considered violent.
• Burglary  – Entering someone’s home with the intent to commit a crime inside.
• Weapons Possession – Having or using a loaded firearm without permission, especially if connected to another crime.
• Manslaughter – Causing the death of another person without planning it ahead of time.
• Murder  – Intentionally causing the death of another person.

Each of these crimes carries serious penalties. Even first-time offenders can face years in prison.

In New York, the law treats violent felonies differently from other crimes. The penalties are tougher. Judges often have less room to be lenient.

• Mandatory Minimums – Many violent felonies come with mandatory prison time. That means if you are convicted, the judge must send you to prison.
• Longer  Maximums – The top sentence is higher than for non-violent crimes. Depending on the severity of the crime and one’s prior criminal record, the maximum      can mean multiple decades in state prison. 

If you already have a criminal record, things get more serious. New York has laws that increase punishment for repeat offenders. This means that someone with a prior record may face double or even triple the prison time of a first-time offender.

Even when the charges sound overwhelming, there are often strong defenses. A skilled defense lawyer will look at every angle. Some common defenses include:

1. Self-defense.
2. Lack of intent. 
3. False identification or mistaken identity.
4. Lying witnesses.
5. Illegal search and seizure.
6. Insufficient evidence. 

Violent felony cases move quickly, and prosecutors take them seriously. They may push for the highest possible charge and sentence. That’s why having the right lawyer matters.

A diligent criminal defense attorney can:

• Investigate the facts from every angle.
• Challenge the evidence and the way police collected it.
• File motions to suppress illegal evidence.
• Question witnesses and test the prosecutor’s case.
• Negotiate for reduced charges or lesser sentences.
• Take the case to trial if necessary.

The earlier you get a lawyer involved, the better your chances of protecting your future.

A violent felony conviction in New York is life-changing. You could face:

• Years, even decades, in prison.
• A permanent criminal record.
• Loss of civil rights like voting or owning a firearm.
• Barriers to jobs, housing, and education.

For repeat offenders, the consequences are even greater. That’s why these cases require aggressive defense and careful planning.

Facing a violent felony in New York is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you or a loved one is charged, the most important step is to act fast. The earlier your defense starts, the more options you may have.