Experienced Criminal Defense Counsel
The criminal justice process is an obstacle course that requires defendants to deal with the rigors and terminology of the courtroom, as well as the emotional gauntlet of hearings and negotiations. At Jeffrey L. Hersh, Attorney at Law, we guide people through the criminal process and effectively defend their rights at every stage of their case. Our White Plains law firm defends clients facing misdemeanors and felonies in New York and Connecticut.
A Strategic Defense Attorney Who Will Protect Your Rights
Any criminal charge is serious, and you need a proven lawyer to get the best possible outcome. Mr. Hersh has nearly 15 years of criminal law experience, and he is committed to getting his clients the best possible results. He finds creative solutions to challenging cases and helps clients get out of bad situations.
We defend people facing many types of criminal charges including:
- Driving under the influence
- Domestic violence, assault and robbery
- Drug possession and drug trafficking
- Drug-related charges
A Capable Attorney For The Criminal Law Process
Your defense starts as soon as you are charged with a crime, and waiting to speak with an attorney can have serious consequences. Mr. Hersh has a working relationship with the judges, district attorneys and staff of the courts in Westchester, Putnam and Fairfield counties. He is a passionate criminal defense lawyer who will guide you through the process and keep you updated with any new case developments.
In addition to defending you from charges in the courtroom, we also have the resources for alcohol and substance abuse rehabilitation. We work with health care providers, oasis providers and counselors to get our clients the necessary treatments for their recovery. We help our clients move forward with their lives and give them the tools to avoid relapses.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Criminal Charges
Facing criminal charges creates immense uncertainty for defendants navigating the court system. As a seasoned criminal defense lawyer, Mr. Hersh addresses several common inquiries to help you understand your legal rights and options. The following explanations outline key aspects of criminal procedure in New York and Connecticut.
Will I go to jail for a first offense?
A first-time offense does not automatically result in mandatory incarceration. Courts often consider alternative sentencing programs, probation or pretrial diversion for individuals without a prior record. However, certain severe felonies or statutory mandatory minimums may still carry required jail time regardless of your criminal history. The ultimate outcome depends on the specific offense, aggravating circumstances and statutory guidelines. Early intervention by defense counsel often expands the available options for avoiding jail time.
What happens at a pretrial conference or motion hearing?
A pretrial conference allows the defense and prosecution to discuss potential plea agreements, evidentiary issues and scheduling with the judge. A motion hearing occurs when either party asks the court to make specific legal rulings, such as suppressing evidence or dismissing charges. These proceedings narrow the scope of the issues before a trial begins. Consequently, both events serve as critical opportunities to evaluate the strength of the state’s case. Defendants must carefully review all strategy decisions with their attorney prior to these appearances.
Public defender vs private attorney: what’s the difference?
Public defenders are court-appointed attorneys who represent individuals who meet specific financial indigency requirements. By contrast, private attorneys are retained directly by the client, allowing individuals to choose their specific legal counsel. While both are licensed officers of the court, public defenders typically manage significantly higher caseloads due to system constraints. Private counsel often has greater flexibility to allocate individualized time and dedicated resources to a defense. This additional focus can be vital when building a customized strategy for complex charges.
Before You Speak To Anyone, Call Our Office
Calling our law firm can help you prevent mistakes and save time. Our attorney has helped clients with their DUI/DWI, drug charges, violent felonies and many other criminal charges. Call us now at 203-769-1090 or 914-305-3155 or fill out the contact form to schedule your consultation.