What Are the Processes of the Harrison Town Court?
Criminal Defense Attorneys for Harrison – Westchester County – New York
The Harrison Town Court, located at 1 Heineman Place, Harrison, New York 10528, is an extremely busy town court in Westchester County. It handles criminal cases and traffic tickets from nearby I-287, I-684, the Hutchinson River Parkway, and I-95. The Town and Village Attorneys prosecute the Town and Village matters relating to violations of the local law and codes. Criminal cases ranging from DWIs to misdemeanors and felonies are prosecuted by the Westchester County District Attorney, which maintains its Bureau office in Purchase, NY.
The Town/Village of Harrison is about 30 miles northeast of New York City and is surrounded by White Plains, Rye, and Mamaroneck.
Typical traffic cases handled in the Court include:
- Speeding tickets
- Moving violations
- Cell phone tickets
- DWI and DWAI arrests
- Unlicensed operation tickets
- Other traffic offenses from the local roads and Westchester County highways
Frequently Asked Questions
When Does the Harrison Town Court Meet?
The Harrison Town Court meets every Tuesday for criminal actions and Thursday for vehicle and traffic matters.
What Happens After a DWI Arrest in Harrison?
After a DWI arrest in Harrison, a court date will be issued for an appearance before a judge for arraignment. The prosecutor will be present during the hearing.
Do I Need an Attorney for a DWI Charge in Harrison?
Yes, DWI is a crime in New York State, and you must have an attorney to protect your interests.
Do I Need an Attorney for My First Court Appearance?
Yes, it is crucial to have an attorney at your first DWI appearance in the Town of Harrison. Important decisions regarding possible mandated treatment, license suspension, bail, and discovery are made, and it is necessary to have an experienced DWI lawyer.
What Is the Legal Limit for BAC?
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading of .08% or more will result in a charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI). Lower than a .08% BAC reading will result in the lesser included offense of driving while ability impaired (DWAI). A BAC reading of .18% or more will result in the charge of aggravated DWI.
What Are the Penalties for a First-Time DWI Charge?
The penalties for a first-offense DWI include 1 year in jail, up to 3 years of probation, 6-month driver's license revocation, fines between $500 and $1000, state mandatory surcharge, mandated MADD class, mandated treatment, mandated Impaired Driving Program (IDP), mandated ignition interlock device for at least 1 year, and/or other court requirements such as community service.
How Long Does a Harrison Court Appearance Take?
The Harrison Court is extremely busy and is one of the highest revenue-generating courts in New York State. The actual time before a judge may be only 10 minutes, but the waiting time can be long, depending on the volume of cases. In some instances, this includes the entire morning. Court typically starts at 9:30 am. There can be long lines to enter the courthouse and go through security.
Who Prosecutes DWI Cases in the Harrison Court?
The Westchester County District Attorney is the prosecutor for all DWI cases in the Town of Harrison. The local branch office located in Purchase, New York covers the Harrison Court. In the event of a felony DWI charge the matter begins in the Harrison Town Court but can only be prosecuted as a felony in the Westchester County Court located in White Plains.
Can a DWI Charge Be Reduced by Plea in the Town of Harrison?
A plea depends on several factors, including the strength of the prosecutor's case, BAC reading, if an accident was caused, if injuries resulted, prior offenses (including prior DWIs), substance abuse issues, and background of the accused. A DWI defense attorney will explain all options to proceed, including possible defenses.
Will a DWI Charge in the Town of Harrison Appear in the News or Online?
Depending on the nature of the case, a DWI arrest may appear in a police blotter, on the news, or online. Typically, a DWI charge will not appear in the news or online. The police department and the district attorney's office may issue a press release, and if necessary, a DWI defense attorney can respond accordingly.
Contact a Harrison Criminal & DWI Defense Attorney - Westchester County, NY
The Harrison criminal defense attorneys of Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP will immediately begin working with you to explore the facts of your case, develop a defense strategy, and work toward helping you avoid a criminal conviction.
Whether your case involves:
- DWI
- Drug crimes
- Sex crimes
- Larceny or theft crimes
- Violent crimes
- White collar crimes
- Burglary
- Conspiracy
- Murder/manslaughter
- Guns & Weapons
- Arson
- Assault
- Felonies or misdemeanors
Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of criminal cases. We understand the complexities and nuances involved in each type of crime, and we are committed to providing personalized defense strategies tailored to your unique situation.
From the moment you engage our services, we will start a thorough investigation to uncover all pertinent details, ensuring that every aspect of your case is meticulously examined. Our goal is to build a robust defense that maximizes your chances of a favorable outcome.
We pride ourselves on our dedication and expertise, offering comprehensive legal support to help you navigate through the challenging times of facing criminal charges. Rest assured, with our experienced attorneys on your side, you will receive the best possible defense.
Don't face these legal battles alone. Let our seasoned criminal defense attorneys guide you through the process, providing the steadfast support and strategic counsel you need.
Where Are the Offices of Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Located?
Our criminal defense law firm proudly serves clients in various locations to ensure accessibility and convenience. We have office locations in:
- White Plains, NY: Centrally located to accommodate clients from surrounding areas.
- Cortlandt Manor, NY: Offering another convenient location for clients in northern Westchester County.
By situating our offices in these strategic locations, we provide comprehensive legal services to residents in Harrison, surrounding Westchester County municipalities, and even in Federal Court.
What to Do If You Know the Police Have a Warrant to Arrest You
Knowing that the police have a warrant for your arrest can be a stressful and daunting situation. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do:
- Stay Calm and Don't Panic
- It's crucial to remain calm. Panicking can lead to poor decisions that may complicate your situation further.
- Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
- Call Proto, Sachs & Brown. LLP. We are reputable criminal defense attorneys. As seasoned lawyers we will provide you with the necessary guidance and representation throughout the process.
- Do Not Attempt to Flee
- Evading arrest is illegal and can result in additional charges. Stay where you are and follow legal procedures.
- Know Your Rights
- Familiarize yourself with your legal rights. You have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. Exercise these rights to protect yourself.
- Prepare Your Documents
- Gather any documents or information that might be relevant to your case, such as identification, court notices, and any communication with law enforcement.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case
- Refrain from discussing the details of your case with anyone except your attorney. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
- Surrender Voluntarily
- With our guidance, cooperate with law enforcement and surrender voluntarily. This can demonstrate your willingness to comply with the law and may benefit your case. We will coordinate the voluntary surrender.
By following these steps, you can manage the situation more effectively and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Areas Served by Our Harrison Criminal Defense Attorneys
Our dedicated team of criminal defense attorneys provides comprehensive legal services in:
- Harrison Town Court
- Surrounding Westchester County municipalities
- Federal Court
Whether you're dealing with criminal charges, DWI, or traffic violations, our experienced attorneys are here to help.
Who Issues Tickets in Harrison?
In Harrison, both the local police department and the New York State Troopers handle ticket issuance. These authorities are responsible for enforcing traffic laws and other regulations within the region.
Key Issuing Authorities:
- Harrison Police Department: Local law enforcement managing municipal rules and traffic control.
- New York State Troopers: State-level officers enforcing broader state regulations, often seen in various parts of Westchester County.
Whether you're driving through town or on highways, these officers ensure compliance with the law.
Contact Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP to speak with an experienced Criminal & DWI defense attorney to defend and protect your rights. For an immediate and free consultation, call (914) 840-5104.