Westchester County Conspiracy Attorney

Understanding Your Conspiracy Charges in White Plains, NY

Conspiracy is a criminal act where two or more people agree to commit a crime at some time in the future. Their agreement to work together to break the law can result in an arrest and charges for conspiracy. Even in situations where only one of the alleged conspirators acted in an attempt to carry out the plan, all of the conspirators can be arrested and charged with the crime of conspiracy.

For a powerful defense against charges, trust our seasoned Westchester County conspiracy lawyers. Contact us online or call now at (914) 840-5104 for a consultation.

Experienced and Effective Defense of Conspiracy Charges

New York State takes conspiracy charges very seriously and individuals arrested for conspiracy can face penalties higher that those imposed by the underlying charges. Additionally, the circumstances of the particular conspiracy can result in the penalties being elevated from misdemeanors to felonies. We are knowledgeable in handling state and federal charges involving allegation of criminal conspiracy.

If you have been arrested or under investigation for charges of conspiracy contact our Westchester County criminal defense attorneys and we will immediately get to work building the best possible defense that is tailored specifically to your case.

Potential Penalties for Conspiracy Charges in New York

In New York, conspiracy charges are categorized into different degrees, each with its own set of potential penalties. Here’s a breakdown of the various degrees of conspiracy charges and their associated consequences:

Conspiracy in the Fifth Degree

This is the lowest level of conspiracy charge. It involves an agreement to commit a crime, but no overt act is required. It is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, with potential penalties of up to 1 year in jail, or probation for up to 3 years, and/or a fine.

Conspiracy in the Fourth Degree

This degree requires that at least one overt act be committed in furtherance of the conspiracy. The underlying crime involved can be a misdemeanor or felony. This is a Class E felony with potential penalties of up to 4 years in prison, probation, and/or a fine.

Conspiracy in the Third Degree

This charge involves conspiring to commit a felony, not just a misdemeanor. It requires an overt act in furtherance of the conspiracy. It is classified as a Class D felony with potential penalties of up to 7 years in prison, probation, and/or a fine.

Conspiracy in the Second Degree

This degree involves a more serious level of criminal conduct, often including conspiring to commit a violent felony or a crime that poses a significant threat to public safety. As a Class C felony, the potential penalties may include up to 15 years in prison, probation, and/or a fine.

Conspiracy in the First Degree

This is the most serious degree of conspiracy charge, typically involving complex criminal enterprises, such as major drug trafficking operations or organized crime. It includes conspiring to commit a very serious crime or multiple serious crimes. Classified as a Class B felony, potential penalties include up to 25 years in prison, probation, and/or a fine.

Factors That Can Affect Sentencing

Sentencing in conspiracy charges can be influenced by a variety of factors, including:

• Severity of the Underlying Crime: The seriousness of the crime that was planned can influence the degree of conspiracy charges and the resulting penalties.
• Number of Participants: A conspiracy involving multiple participants may result in more severe charges.
• Overt Acts: The presence or absence of overt acts taken toward committing the crime can impact the degree of the conspiracy charge.
• Previous Criminal Record: A defendant's prior criminal history can affect sentencing, potentially leading to enhanced penalties.

Build Your Defense with Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP

Since these types of criminal cases can be so expansive, it is important that if you are under investigation or have already been charged with conspiracy that you have a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of the law. The conspiracy criminal defense lawyers at Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP, vigorously defend and have a record of success in helping clients against conspiracy charges and the underlying criminal charges that may also be brought.

Aggressive and effective criminal representation from the start of the case can be the difference between a lengthy jail sentence and possibly avoid jail altogether. Our Westchester County criminal defense lawyers will work to understand the facts of your case in order to build a complete strategy for preserving your rights and freedom.

Common Defenses That Can Be Used Against Conspiracy Charges

Several defenses can be employed depending on the specifics of the case:

• Lack of agreement with the alleged conspirators
• Withdrawal from the conspiracy before any overt act was committed
• Lack of intent to engage in or further the conspiracy
• Insufficient evidence
• Prove that no overt act was committed by any of the conspirators
• Entrapment
• Misidentification
• Forced to participate in the conspiracy under threat of harm or coercion

The applicability of these defenses depends on the specific facts and circumstances of the case. Consulting with our Westchester County conspiracy defense attorney can help you identify the most appropriate defenses and develop a strategy tailored to your situation. Call us now - (914) 840-5104

Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation

At Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP, we provide exceptional legal services with the convenience of our offices in White Plains and Peekskill, serving clients throughout New York. Our firm stands out with premier counsel recognized by Super Lawyers® (top 5% of New York attorneys) and the Avvo Clients’ Choice Award for Family Law and Criminal Defense. 

With over 100 years of combined experience, including a background in criminal prosecution, Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP attorneys offer a depth of knowledge and a strategic approach to your legal challenges. Choose us for a proven track record, award-winning representation, and a dedicated team ready to protect your rights and achieve the best results for your case.