Why Choose Our Staten Island Criminal Lawyer
A Staten Island defense lawyer with experience in the five boroughs of New York is crucial when facing a criminal charge. You need an aggressive criminal attorney who knows the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. You need a Staten Island Defense attorney for all criminal charges to defend you.
a Staten Island Criminal Lawyer with Local Knowledge of Staten Island Courts & Prosecutors
While all five NYC borough courts operate under the same state laws and rules, having an experienced lawyer to represent you is an important consideration.
When charges arise in Staten Island, this specialized knowledge maximizes opportunities for reduced charges, dismissal, or favorable sentencing. Keep in mind that when searching for a defense lawyer, this experience makes borough mastery essential, not optional.
A Staten island Lawyer With Proven Track Record of Case Dismissals & Reduced Charges
Also, given that a Staten Island attorney is ideal for cases in the borough, Mr. Hardy also has years of trial experience. Adding more reason to put your case in his hands.
Criminal Defense Services in Staten Island
Mr. Hardy, a well-known NYC criminal lawyer, works in all five boroughs: Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island and The Bronx
He brings extensive experience assisting clients charged with the following:
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Attempted Murder
- Weapons Possession or Sale
- Robbery
- Rape and Sex Crimes
- Assault
- Domestic Violence
- Burglary
- Possession / Sale of Controlled Substances
- Grand Larceny and Petit Larceny
- White Collar Crimes
- Police Brutality
- Vehicle and Traffic, License Suspensions, Speeding Tickets, and Other Traffic Violations,
- DWI, DUI
What to Expect When You Hire a Staten Island Criminal Lawyer
Initial Consultation & Case Evaluation
As a criminal attorney in Staten Island, I begin with an initial free consultation and case evaluation, listening to your case, reviewing charges, and identifying legal options and risks.
Investigation & Evidence Gathering for your case
Next, I will investigate and gather evidence, including interviewing witnesses, examining police reports, and consulting experts to build a defense.
Negotiation
Then, I will negotiate with the Staten Island District Attorney to seek reduced charges, favorable plea agreements, or dismissal, when possible.
Trial Preparation & Courtroom Representation
Finally, if the case goes to trial, I begin preparing for trial and providing courtroom representation. This involves developing a strategy, filing motions, selecting jurors, presenting arguments, and advocating zealously to protect your rights throughout the proceedings.
Your Rights When Facing Criminal Charges in Staten Island
Do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer
This includes police, other detainees, friends or family by phone (calls may be recorded), or jail staff. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely but firmly say, “I want to speak to my attorney,” and invoke your right to remain silent.
Exceptions: The “public safety exception” allows police to ask questions before reading a suspect their rights if there is an immediate, significant danger to the public.
Get a NYC lawyer as soon as possible
If you can afford one, contact a private criminal defense lawyer immediately. You can reach me anytime, 24/7.
State clearly: “I am going to remain silent, and I want a lawyer”.
Do not sign any documents or waive rights without an attorney present.
Under NY’s bail laws (post-reform), many non-violent/low-level cases result in release without cash bail, but it depends on charges, history, and risk factors.
Find out your status and arraignment details
Ask family/friends to call the Criminal Court Arraignment Clerk in the borough of arrest (e.g., Manhattan: 646-386-4500 or check nycourts.gov). Provide your information, and any arrest number (from paperwork or police).
Arraignment usually occurs within 24 hours of arrest (often the same day or the next morning), though it can be delayed slightly. It’s your first court appearance where charges are read, you enter a plea (usually “not guilty”), and the judge decides on release conditions.
The Miranda Rights
Mandatory: Only required before “custodial interrogation,” not necessarily at the exact moment of physical restraint. Police can arrest without reading rights, but they cannot interrogate.
Invocation: If you say you want an attorney or wish to remain silent, all questioning must cease.
Not Silence Alone: Simply staying quiet is not enough to invoke Miranda rights; you must explicitly state that you want to remain silent or want an attorney.
Waiver: You can waive your rights, but only knowingly and voluntarily.
Your Right to Counsel
If you can afford one, contact a private criminal defense attorney immediately (many offer 24/7 emergency lines).
If you cannot afford one, you have the right to a free public defender. At arraignment, the court will assign one.
Again, reach out to an experienced NY defense attorney, like attorney Glenn Hardy, if you can. This is the first step toward protecting your freedom and building a strong defense.
Your Presumption of Innocence
The right to the presumption of innocence means that when an individual is arrested, they are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The burden rests on the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This principle protects individuals from unfair treatment, ensuring they receive a fair trial and preventing punishment without sufficient evidence
Client Testimonials – Real Results from Staten Island Clients
Staten Island Criminal Court Information
Richmond County (Staten Island) Criminal Court
Address: 26 Central Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10301 (Note: Some older references mention 67 Targee Street, but the current primary location is at 26 Central Avenue)
General Information / Clerk’s Office: (718) 675-8558
Arraignment Clerk: (718) 390-8409
Fax: (718) 390-8405
Arraignment Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Official Website: NY Courts – 13th Judicial District (Richmond County)
or the NYC Criminal Court page: https://ww2.nycourts.gov/courts/nyc/criminal/index.shtml
Richmond County Supreme Court – Criminal Term
This court handles felony cases, serious crimes, and matters that proceed from Criminal Court (e.g., grand jury indictments).
- Address: 26 Central Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10301 (Room 240 for Criminal Term)
- Main Phone: (718) 675-8700
- Criminal Term Office: (718) 675-8760
- General Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Official Website: https://ww2.nycourts.gov/courts/13jd/index.shtml
Staten Island Central Booking
Where arrested individuals are processed before arraignment
- Phone: (718) 876-8493 or (718) 390-8400
Richmond County District Attorney’s Office (Prosecutor)
Important for any criminal case in Staten Island.
Additional Helpful Numbers
Important for any criminal case in Staten Island.
- NYC Criminal Court Information Line (general help for all boroughs): (646) 386-4900
- Desk Appearance Tickets (DAT) in Staten Island: (718) 390-8409
- The best and most accurate information always comes from the New York State Unified Court System website
- Court hours, procedures, and contact numbers can change. Always verify the latest information directly on the official New York Courts website or by calling the court before your appearance. As an experienced Staten Island criminal lawyer, I can help guide you through the entire process and represent you at every stage.
What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested in Staten Island, NY – Common Questions & Answers
What are my rights immediately after being arrested in Staten Island?
Take in consideration that you have the right to remain silent and to a criminal attorney. Police must read you your Miranda rights before any questioning if you are in custody. Clearly state: “I want to speak to a lawyer and I do not want to answer any questions.” Do not discuss the case with officers, detectives, or anyone else. Remember that anything you say can be used against you later on.
Should I talk to the police after I am arrested?
I suggest “No”. Be polite and cooperative with basic processing (name, address, etc.), but politely invoke your right to remain silent and request a lawyer. Do not explain your side of the story, even if officers seem friendly or say it will help. Early statements can hurt your defense later.
What happens right after an arrest in Staten Island?
You are usually taken to a local NYPD precinct for initial processing (search, fingerprints, photos, and “pedigree” information).
Then you go to Staten Island Central Booking.
Most people are held until their arraignment, which typically occurs within 24 hours (sometimes longer on weekends or busy days).
Family members generally cannot visit during this time unless the person is a juvenile.
What is an arraignment in Staten island and what happens there?
Arraignment is your first court appearance before a judge at the Richmond County Criminal Court (26 Central Avenue, Staten Island).
The judge informs you of the charges, you enter a plea (usually “not guilty”), and the court decides on release: Released on your own recognizance (ROR), bail set, or (rarely) remand without bail.
Your Staten Island criminal lawyer can negotiate for better release conditions and review any plea offers from the prosecutor.
Will I get bail or be released after the arraignment?
It depends on the charges, your criminal history, community ties (job, family, residence in Staten Island), and other factors. Many misdemeanor cases result in ROR or low bail. Serious felonies may involve higher bail or conditions. A good local defense attorney can present strong arguments for release at arraignment.
How long will the whole process take when arrested in Staten Island?
Arraignment usually happens within 24 hours of arrest. After that, the timeline varies:
Misdemeanors may resolve in weeks or months.
Felonies can take several months (or longer) if they go to grand jury or trial.
Your case could end with dismissal, plea deal, or trial — an experienced Staten Island criminal lawyer works to resolve it as favorably and quickly as possible.
Can the charges be reduced or dismissed by a Staten Island Criminal Lawyer like Mr. Hardy?
Yes, many cases are reduced or dismissed, especially with strong legal representation. Your lawyer can challenge evidence, police procedures, or negotiate with the Staten Island District Attorney’s Office. Early involvement increases the chances of a favorable outcome.
What if I can’t afford a lawyer in Staten Island?
You have the right to a court-appointed attorney (Legal Aid or 18-B attorney) if you qualify. However, a private Staten Island criminal lawyer, like Mr. Hardy often provides more personalized attention and can sometimes achieve better results in negotiations and at trial.
What should my family do if I’m arrested?
Stay calm and gather basic information (arrest location, charges if known). Find further information under “A DEFENSE LAWYER’S ADVICE WHEN FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES IN NEW YORK“
Contact a Mr. Hardy as soon as possible — the earlier the better.
Prepare information about community ties (employment, family, residence) can help with release at arraignment.
Do not discuss case details over the phone, as calls from custody may be recorded.