If you face drug-related charges, you may have the option of attending drug court. The state of New York is at the forefront of this initiative, which seeks to help individuals address the underlying issues of substance abuse as an alternative to the traditional...
Criminal defense
Walk-and-turn sobriety tests aren’t always valid
If you have been arrested for DWI in New York because you failed a walk-and-turn field sobriety test, you may have substantial grounds to fight against the charge. This test can be challenging for many individuals, even under the best circumstances. Failing the test...
Knowing what to expect if you refuse to take a breath test
If you are like many New York drivers, you pride yourself on being safe and responsible behind the wheel. However, getting pulled over by police and being asked to take a breath test can throw anyone for a loop. This is what can happen if you refuse to submit to this...
When drunk driving becomes a felony
If you're arrested for drunk driving in the state of New York, you may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. The court will decide what to charge you with based on several factors. Whether you got arrested for drunk driving before A misdemeanor refers to a...
What is a burglary charge?
If you enter a structure without permission, you may be charged with burglary. However, there are several elements that a New York prosecutor must prove before you can be convicted of the crime. You gain entry to a structure that you don't own The first element of a...
The elements of a burglary charge
In New York, burglary is classified into three different felony class offenses. The minimum elements of a burglary charge require a person to enter or unlawfully remain in a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime therein. Burglary in the third degree...
New York’s point system and how long it takes for a suspension
New York takes driving violations seriously. If you get enough points on the point system, your driver's license can be suspended. How does the point system work? There are many common traffic violations that can end up counting as points against your driver's...
NYC has a new program for dangerous drivers
The greater New York City metropolitan area continually experiences traffic collisions and pedestrian accidents. The sheer volume of people living in the region, combined with thousands of private and commercial vehicles on the road, means things will go wrong at...
When is insider trading considered illegal?
If you live in New York and work for a corporation in an executive position, you may be considered an insider. An individual in this position often has information the public lacks about the company or stock ownership that amounts to over 10% of the company’s equity....
Community service: When can the state offer it?
Residents of Sayville and nearby areas of New York may want to learn more about community service as an alternative to jail time. Its design is to promote a lifestyle that is free of crime and constructive for offenders. It also provides a means of safe and effective...