Robbery Lawyer Queens County, NY
Late one evening, you stopped at a corner bodega in Jamaica, Queens. A misunderstanding with the clerk escalated quickly—raised voices, a hand shoved out to block the exit, and before you knew it, police arrived. Now you’re facing a robbery charge, a serious felony under New York law. The weight of the accusation can feel overwhelming, but you are not without options. A skilled defense lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your rights, and work toward the trusted resolution. If you or a loved one is confronting a robbery charge in Queens County, reach out to a former prosecutor and his experienced Of Counsel team today at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Defense Strategies for Robbery Charges
A robbery charge is built on specific elements: the taking of property from another person, with force or the threat of force. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine every piece of evidence—surveillance video, witness statements, 911 calls, and police reports—to identify weaknesses in the state’s case. Where the identification of the accused is unreliable, where force was exaggerated, or where the property taken was not actually possessed by the complaining witness, a strong defense emerges. In some cases, negotiation with the Queens District Attorney’s office can lead to a reduced charge or a dismissal if the evidence does not support the felony allegation. When a trial is necessary, Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor gives him unique insight into how the other side builds its case, allowing him to prepare a defense that anticipates the prosecution’s moves.
What to Expect in a Queens County Robbery Case
A robbery arrest in Queens typically begins with an arraignment at the NYC Criminal Court — Queens. If the charge is a felony, the case is later transferred to the Queens County Supreme Court, Criminal Term at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435. Following the 2020 bail reforms, many non-violent offenses result in release without cash bail. Robbery, however, may be classified as a violent felony, which can still trigger bail or remand. An experienced defense attorney appears at the earliest stage to argue for your release and to ensure that the initial procedural steps protect your record. After arraignment, discovery takes place, and the defense reviews the state’s evidence. Motions to suppress—for example, an illegal stop or an unduly suggestive identification procedure—can be filed. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel keep you informed and work with you to decide whether to negotiate a plea or take the matter to trial. The timeline varies by the court’s calendar and the complexity of the evidence, but having an attorney from the very first hearing can shape the entire direction of the case.
Penalties for Robbery in New York
Robbery is a felony offense in New York. The degree—first, second, or third—depends on factors such as whether a weapon was displayed, whether anyone suffered physical injury, and whether the robbery took place inside a home or business. A conviction can lead to a state prison sentence, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and immigration status. Because the stakes are so high, mounting a rigorous defense is essential. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand the sentencing landscape and work to pursue every available avenue—from pretrial dismissal to negotiated reductions—to seek the least burdensome outcome possible.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense since founding the firm in 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Working alongside him is a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring extensive courtroom experience across multiple jurisdictions. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. Firm-wide, they have documented 4,739+ case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is robbery under New York law?
Robbery is a forcible theft; a person commits robbery in New York when they take property from another by using or threatening physical force. The offense is always a felony. The degree—third, second, or first—hinges on factors like display of a weapon, infliction of injury, or entry into a dwelling. Because robbery is a violent felony, it carries significant potential penalties and cannot be resolved through a simple fine. Anyone charged with robbery should understand that the state must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, and a strong defense often turns on challenging the use of force or the reliability of witness identifications.
Do I need a lawyer if I’m charged with robbery in Queens County?
Yes—a robbery charge is a serious felony, and having an experienced criminal defense lawyer is critical to protecting your rights. From the moment of arrest, every statement you make can be used against you. An attorney can appear at arraignment to argue for your release, investigate the facts, identify legal issues, and negotiate with the prosecutor. Attempting to handle a felony robbery case without counsel places you at an enormous disadvantage. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring decades of combined experience to robbery defense and can begin working on your case immediately.
Can a robbery charge be dismissed or reduced?
Dismissal or reduction of a robbery charge depends on the strength of the evidence and the facts of the case. If the prosecution’s evidence is weak—for instance, the identification of the accused is unreliable or the element of force is not supported—the charge may be dismissed or reduced to a lesser offense such as petit larceny. An experienced defense attorney examines every aspect of the case for these opportunities. While no outcome can be past results do not guarantee a similar outcome, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have successfully resolved numerous criminal matters and will pursue every available avenue in your defense.
What should I do if I’m arrested for robbery?
If you are arrested for robbery, remain silent and immediately request a lawyer. Do not discuss the facts with police, even if you believe you are innocent. Anything you say can be used in court. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Early legal involvement can help secure your release, preserve evidence, and guide the initial steps of the case. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is available during business hours to speak with you about your situation and to begin building your defense.
How does bail work for robbery cases in Queens County?
Robbery is often classified as a violent felony, meaning cash bail or remand may still be imposed even after New York’s 2020 bail reform. The judge at arraignment will weigh factors such as your criminal history, ties to the community, and the nature of the alleged offense. A defense attorney can present arguments and evidence to support your release on your own recognizance or with the least restrictive conditions possible. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have extensive experience advocating for favorable bail determinations in Queens County courts.
Speak with a Robbery Defense Lawyer in Queens County
If you are facing a robbery charge in Queens County, NY, don’t try to navigate the legal system alone. Reach our New York location to request a consultation with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel. Call (888) 437-7747 today.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New York Location
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
(838) 292-0003
Toll-free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only. Call to schedule.
Related services: Manhattan Criminal Lawyer, Brooklyn Criminal Lawyer, Staten Island Criminal Lawyer, Nassau County Criminal Lawyer.
Primary sources: Queens County Supreme Court, New York Penal Law.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Results may vary.