

Criminal Defense Attorneys in Westchester County
Experienced Legal Guidance for Criminal Charges in Westchester County
Protect yourself from criminal charges by hiring a top Westchester County criminal defense lawyer. Our vast experience, knowledge, and expertise in the courtroom have provided our clients with protection and peace of mind for more than 100 years combined. As former prosecutors, our criminal defense attorneys have a reputation as aggressive, successful defenders, even garnering such accolades as the Avvo Clients' Choice Award for Criminal Defense.
Our team is dedicated to maintaining open lines of communication with clients throughout the entire legal process. We understand that facing criminal charges can be a daunting experience, which is why we prioritize keeping our clients informed and involved in every decision we make together. By fostering a transparent and supportive environment, we ensure that our clients always feel prepared and empowered.
Whatever criminal charges have been filed against you, our experienced criminal lawyers are available to speak with you regarding cases, including and not limited to:
- Drug Offenses
- DWI / DWAI
- Violent Crimes
- White Collar Crimes
- Sex Crimes
- Theft Crimes
- Internet and Computer Crimes
- Juvenile Crimes
- Appeals
Facing a criminal charge? We offer free consultations. Call (914) 840-5104 or contact us online to speak with a Westchester County criminal defense lawyer today.
Understanding Criminal Laws in New York
New York's criminal justice system is governed by a comprehensive set of laws, primarily found in the New York Penal Law. These laws categorize offenses based on their severity, which directly influences the penalties a person can face upon conviction. As a dedicated Westchester County criminal defense lawyer, we understand the specific legal definitions and the high standard of proof required for each type of offense.
Classifications and Penalties of Criminal Offenses in Westchester County
New York law divides crimes into three primary categories: violations, misdemeanors, and felonies. The penalties escalate with the severity of the charge.
- Violations: These are not crimes, but they can still result in fines and a short jail term. They are the least serious offenses and include things like disorderly conduct and harassment.
- Misdemeanors: These are less serious crimes, with a maximum sentence of up to one year in a county jail. New York has two levels of misdemeanors:
- Class A Misdemeanor: Punishable by a jail term of up to one year and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Examples include petit larceny and assault in the third degree.
- Class B Misdemeanor: Punishable by a jail term of up to three months and/or a fine of up to $500. Examples include public lewdness.
- Felonies: These are the most serious criminal offenses, punishable by a sentence of more than one year in a state prison. New York has several levels of felonies:
- Class E Felony: The least serious felony, punishable by a prison sentence of 1 to 4 years.
- Class D Felony: Punishable by a prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.
- Class C Felony: Punishable by a prison sentence of 1 to 15 years.
- Class B Felony: Punishable by a prison sentence of 1 to 25 years.
- Class A Felony: The most serious, punishable by a lengthy prison sentence, including a life sentence.
Both felony charges and misdemeanor charges can carry very serious consequences, including:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Fines
- Loss of civil liberties
- Loss of employment opportunities
How Our Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help
Have you been arrested and charged with a misdemeanor or felony crime in Westchester County, NY, or a surrounding area? Is there an outstanding warrant for your arrest? If so, you need to protect your rights immediately.
Our legal team is prepared to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your charges, collecting and analyzing vital evidence to build a compelling defense. We work tirelessly to uncover any inconsistencies or procedural errors that could be leveraged in your favor. This meticulous attention to detail is essential in identifying potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case, enabling us to mount a powerful defense on your behalf.
As a seasoned Westchester County criminal defense attorney, we will leverage every possible defense, including:
- Self-Defense or Defense of Others: We can argue that you were not the aggressor and that your actions were a reasonable response to the threat of physical harm from the alleged victim. New York law recognizes the right to use reasonable force in self-defense.
- Lack of Intent or Mens Rea: We can argue that you lacked the necessary mental state to commit the crime. For example, if the act was an accident or a misunderstanding, it may not meet the legal definition of the charged offense.
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We will argue that the evidence presented is not sufficient to meet this high standard, either because the witness testimony is inconsistent or the forensic evidence is flawed.
- Mistaken Identity: We can argue that you have been misidentified as the person who committed the crime. This defense is particularly strong when the identification is based on a flawed witness lineup or a single, fleeting observation.
- Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your rights, such as an unlawful search and seizure or a coerced confession.
When it Comes to Criminal Defense, We Literally Wrote the Book Co-Authored National Bestseller on Criminal Defense - Start Reading
Why Choose Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP
When facing a legal challenge, you need a firm that brings premier legal counsel, proven experience, and a commitment to putting your best interests first. Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP is a dynamic criminal defense and family law firm dedicated to delivering results with personalized service in White Plains and Cortlandt Manor.
Here's what sets our firm apart:
- Award-Winning, Premier Counsel: Our attorneys have been selected for Super Lawyers®, an honor reserved for the top 5% of New York attorneys. We have also been voted winners of the Avvo Clients’ Choice Award for both Family Law and Criminal Defense, reflecting our commitment to client satisfaction and legal excellence.
- Experience & Perspective: With over 100 years of combined experience, our firm offers multiple layers of legal expertise. As former prosecutors, our founders provide hard-hitting criminal defense with a unique insight into how the other side thinks, giving your case a strategic advantage.
- Published Legal Authors: Our legal insights are highly respected, with our attorneys having co-authored national bestsellers on DWI and criminal defense, showcasing a depth of knowledge that is relied upon by media and clients alike.
- Comprehensive Advocacy: From DWI and violent crime charges to divorce and civil claims, we are ready to listen to your needs and successfully assert your rights. We deliver the highest quality representation and start with a free case review to discuss the best possible legal strategy for you.
Serving Westchester, Bronx, Putnam, Dutchess, Orange & Rockland Counties
We represent individuals in all New York Courts, including City Courts, Village Courts, Town Courts, County Courts, Federal Courts and Appellate Courts in and around: Ardsley, Bedford, Briarcliff Manor, Brooklyn, Bronxville, Buchanan, Carmel, Cortlandt Manor, Croton, Dobbs Ferry, Dutchess County, Eastchester, Elmsford, Greenburgh, Harrison, Hastings on Hudson, Irvington, Larchmont, Lewsiboro, Mamaroneck, Mount Pleasant, Mount Vernon, New Castle (includes Chappaqua), New Rochelle, , New York City, Orange County, Ossining, Peekskill, Pelham, Pleasantville, Port Chester, Pound Ridge, Putnam County, Queens, Rye, Scarsdale, Sleepy Hollow, Somers, Southeast, Sullivan County, Tuckahoe, White Plains,Yonkers, and Yorktown.
The Westchester County criminal defense lawyers at Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP are aggressive, experienced, and skilled at defending the rights of individuals facing these consequences regardless of how serious the charges may be. Call today or click here to fill out a free case evaluation form.
With offices in White Plains and Cortlandt Manor, our experienced criminal defense attorneys offer free case evaluations and flexible appointment times. Contact us online or give us a call today!

Why You Should Choose Our Law Firm
Providing Experienced Guidance for Your Legal Needs
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Premier CounselSelection for Super Lawyers® (top 5% of New York attorneys)
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Award-WinningAvvo Clients’ Choice Award for Family Law and Criminal Defense
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Published Legal AuthorsCo-Authored National Bestsellers on DWI & Criminal Defense
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Experience & Perspective100+ years of combined experience, including criminal prosecution
