Schenectady Criminal Defense Attorneys

Defending Against Serious Criminal Charges

If you or someone you love has been accused of a crime, it is critical that you contact an attorney right away. From the moment the prosecution begins its investigation, your future is at risk. Often, the prosecution will seek the maximum allowable penalties; you need a powerful criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and safeguard your freedom.

For years, Hacker Murphy has been representing clients throughout Eastern New York and the surrounding areas. Our Schenectady criminal defense attorneys understand what is at stake and will swiftly work to develop a powerful legal strategy based on the specific details of your case.

If you have been arrested, remember that you have the right to an attorney. Call Hacker Murphy today at (518) 284-3183 for a free and confidential consultation.

Understanding Your Legal Rights

Being accused of a crime or being arrested on criminal charges is a frightening experience. However, it is extremely important that you remember and exercise your rights.

Below, we have provided a brief overview of your most basic rights when it comes to criminal accusations, charges, and arrests:

• You Have the Right to Remain Silent: Anything you say to the police or to the prosecution can be used against you. As such, we strongly recommend that you exercise your right to remain silent during any encounter with law enforcement. Note that you may be required to identify yourself in some situations, but you do not need to answer any other questions, including questions about where you are going, your immigration status, or what you have been doing. Instead, you may simply state that you wish to remain silent.
• You Have the Right to Be Free from Unreasonable Search and Seizure: Law enforcement cannot search your personal property or belongings without a signed warrant. You do not have to consent to a search of your vehicle, home, or other personal property if the police do not have a valid warrant. You may ask to see the warrant if the police say that they have one. If they cannot produce a valid warrant, state that you do not consent to the search or seizure of your property or belongings. Note that an arresting officer is legally permitted to conduct a search of your person (“pat down”) if they suspect you may have a weapon.
• You Have the Right to Leave If You Are Not Under Arrest: The police may detain you if they have reason to believe you have just committed a crime, are committing a crime, or are about to commit a crime. If you are detained by the police, you should ask whether you are under arrest or if you are free to leave. If the police do not ticket or arrest you, they are required by New York State law to provide you with a business card containing identifying information (except in some emergencies).
• You Have the Right to an Attorney: Everyone who is accused of, arrested for, or charged with a crime has the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, you have the right to be appointed one by the court. You should remain silent until you have spoken to an attorney; you do not need to explain yourself or provide any excuses. You should never sign anything or make any statements without an attorney present.

Knowing your rights and exercising them when necessary is one of the best ways to keep yourself safe and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

The most important thing you can do if you are stopped by the police is remain calm. Even if you believe your rights are being violated, attempting to argue with or stop the police from what they are doing could lead to your arrest and additional criminal charges. Always keep your hands where police officers can see them and never run or touch police officers. Do not resist arrest, even if you are innocent. Be compliant and remember that you can make your defense later with the help of an attorney.

How Hacker Murphy Can Help

Our Schenectady criminal defense attorneys assist individuals who are facing all types of criminal allegations and charges. We have extensive experience navigating the New York criminal justice system and know how to protect your rights.

We handle the following types of criminal defense cases:

• Assault
• Burglary
• Conspiracy
• Computer and internet crimes
• Disorderly conduct
• Domestic violence
• Drug charges
• Driving while intoxicated (DWI), including boating while intoxicated
• Federal crimes
• Felony charges
• Fraud, including bank, identity, mail, and wire fraud
• Harassment
• Hate crimes
• Misdemeanors
• Petit and grand larceny
• Sexual assault and sex crimes
• Vehicular assault and manslaughter
• Violation charges
• Violent felonies
• White collar crimes

For more information, including how we can help you, contact us today.

Call Now for a Free, Confidential Consultation

Being arrested can threaten everything from your freedom to your reputation to your ability to maintain employment. The lasting effects of a conviction can impact you for the rest of your life. It is critically important that you reach out to a knowledgeable and experienced defense team that can advocate for you and protect your future.

At Hacker Murphy, we provide personalized legal solutions for those facing all types of criminal accusations and charges. Our Schenectady criminal defense attorneys can help you seek the best possible outcome in your case, whether that means fighting for a case dismissal, reduced sentence, or not-guilty verdict. We have the experience and resources to fight tooth and nail for you.

Call our Schenectady commercial litigation attorneys at (518) 284-3183  to get started!