Staten Island
Criminal Defense
Lawyer
Representing Staten Island Clients Facing Criminal Charges
Have you recently been arrested on Staten Island? If you are facing criminal charges of any kind, the experience can be incredibly stressful and daunting. Regardless of the root cause of the situation, it is essential to know your rights and the value of legal representation when you face the New York criminal court system. Whether you have been wrongfully accused or have made a mistake and worry about your impending sentence, the right attorney can make a tremendous positive difference in the outcome of your case. A trustworthy Staten Island criminal defense attorney is the best asset you can have after an arrest for any criminal charge.
The Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, offers comprehensive defense counsel to Staten Island residents facing criminal prosecution. We have extensive experience handling a wide breadth of criminal cases and can put this experience to work for you. Our goal in every criminal defense case we accept is acquittal or dismissal of our client’s charges, but even when guilt is clear and sentencing is unavoidable, our group can often help clients minimize their penalties to the fullest extent allowable under New York state law.
Know Your Legal Rights After Arrest
Every American citizen has constitutional rights that take effect during and after an arrest. There are specific procedures the police and other law enforcement agencies must follow for an arrest to be lawful. First, the police must establish probable cause to conduct an arrest. For example, if a driver is swerving all over the road, this would constitute probable cause for a police officer to conduct a traffic stop for suspected DUI. Second, all law enforcement officers must uphold due process when conducting an arrest or serving a warrant.
When the police arrest a suspect, they must read them their Miranda rights, which explain the suspect’s right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. It is vital for anyone in this position to take full advantage of these rights. Even if you are wrongfully arrested and feel compelled to try to explain yourself, anything you say could be misconstrued in the worst possible context and used against you.
Why Should I Hire a Staten Island Defense Attorney?
When you work with a criminal defense firm like the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, your case will receive much more individual attention, and you will likely have more responsive communication with your legal team throughout your case proceedings. A top criminal defense lawyer in Staten Island will closely examine the circumstances of your arrest and the prosecution’s evidence, help you identify any violations of due process or your constitutional rights, and help you approach your criminal case with confidence.
Staten Island Crime Rate 2026 vs 2025 (Year to Date*)
| Crime | 2026 (YTD*) | 2025 (YTD*) | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | 0 | 2 | -100.0% |
| Rape | 27 | 18 | +50.0% |
| Robbery | 60 | 66 | -9.1% |
| Assault | 247 | 243 | +1.6% |
| Burglary | 57 | 116 | -50.9% |
| Larceny | 345 | 341 | +1.2% |
| Auto Theft | 60 | 52 | +15.4% |
| Total | 796 | 838 | -5.0% |
Criminal Defense Cases We Accept In Staten Island, NY
At the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, our team proudly offers robust criminal defense representation to Staten Island clients facing a wide range of criminal charges, including:
- Drug offenses. If you are arrested for drug possession, possession with intent to sell, or any other drug charges in Staten Island, our team will help you determine the best approach to your defense. In addition, we may be able to help you qualify for alternative sentencing that focuses on substance abuse recovery instead of incarceration.
- Violent crimes. Criminal offenses such as assault, aggravated assault, gun crimes and homicide carry some of the most severe penalties when suspects are convicted. Our team will help you explore every possible defense available to you.
- Sex crimes. Criminal offenses of a sexual nature are generally regarded as especially heinous, and the consequences of conviction can extend to the rest of a defendant’s life. Therefore, if you are accused of rape, sexual assault, or any other sex offense in Staten Island, we will help you determine the best available defense and strive to minimize your sentencing as much as possible.
- Federal crimes. Some offenses are not tried at the state level and instead begin with a warrant executed by a federal agency, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation or the Drug Enforcement Agency. If you face criminal prosecution in federal court, this process is very different from a state-level criminal case, and you need an experienced defense attorney who knows how to handle federal criminal proceedings.
- White-collar crimes. Crimes of a financial nature, such as securities fraud, wire fraud, and embezzlement, are typically classified as white-collar crimes. While they may be nonviolent, they can still lead to significant penalties and harsh sentencing. Our team is accustomed to navigating criminal cases that involve complex financial issues, and we can put this experience to work in your white-collar criminal case.
- Domestic violence. A domestic violence case can potentially touch on New York family law as well as criminal law. If you are charged with domestic violence of any kind, you could potentially lose custody of your children and face severe penalties, including jail time.
FAQs About Staten Island Criminal Defense Laws
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Staten Island?
Legal fees vary widely depending on the complexity of your case, the charges you face, and whether your case goes to trial. Many criminal defense attorneys offer free initial consultations and can discuss payment plans or flat-fee arrangements during that meeting.
Should I talk to the police before hiring a lawyer?
No. Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately after arrest. Anything you say can be used against you in court, even if you believe you’re helping your case by explaining the situation.
How long does a criminal case take in Staten Island?
Most misdemeanor cases resolve within a few months, while felony cases can take six months to over a year depending on case complexity, court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial. Your attorney can provide a more specific timeline after reviewing your charges.
Can a criminal defense lawyer get my charges dropped?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances of your case. If the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence, your rights were violated during arrest, or there are procedural errors, your attorney may successfully get charges reduced or dismissed entirely.
What happens at my first court appearance after arrest?
At your arraignment, the judge will inform you of the charges, you’ll enter a plea, and the court will address bail or release conditions. Having an attorney present at this critical stage ensures your rights are protected and can influence bail decisions.
You can rely on the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, for criminal defense representation for a wide range of cases. No matter what kind of charges our client faces, we strive to provide aggressive defense counsel to help them defeat the charges against them and minimize sentencing as much as possible. If you are ready to discuss your options for legal defense after an arrest, contact the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, today and schedule a consultation with an experienced Staten Island criminal defense attorney.
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