Robbery Lawyer Queens, NY
You are in Queens, and detectives have contacted you for questioning about a robbery. Maybe you were arrested at the 108th Precinct in Long Island City or received a desk appearance ticket after an incident in Jamaica. The accusation—whether you believe it is a misunderstanding or you are trying to make sense of a complicated situation—can feel like the ground has shifted under you. Robbery charges in New York carry the weight of a felony record and the possibility of state prison time. What you do in the hours and days after you learn about the allegation matters. Early contact with an experienced criminal defense team can shape what happens at arraignment, what bail conditions the court imposes, and how the prosecution views the case. If you are facing a robbery investigation or charge in Queens, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What a Queens Robbery Charge Means for You
In New York, robbery is not simply theft. It is a forcible stealing offense—taking property from another person’s body or immediate presence by using or threatening the immediate use of physical force. The law in Queens County Criminal Court and Queens County Supreme Court treats robbery as a serious felony because it involves violence or the threat of violence. Even an unarmed shove during a shoplifting incident can escalate a petit larceny into a robbery charge. The Queens District Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases actively, and a conviction carries not only incarceration but a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and immigration status. Because Queens is one of the most diverse counties in the nation, many of our clients also worry about how a felony conviction might interact with their immigration status or professional licensing. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in Queens from our New York location; we appear regularly at the courthouse at 88‑11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435.
Our firm, founded in 1997, is led by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience across multiple jurisdictions. Results may vary. They understand how the prosecution builds a robbery case—and how to challenge it from the earliest stage. Whether you are under investigation, have been arrested and released on a desk appearance ticket, or are being held pending arraignment, the sooner a lawyer reviews the evidence and the police reports, the more options may be available to protect your future.
How a Queens Robbery Defense Lawyer Approaches the Case
Every robbery case rests on the prosecution’s ability to prove that the defendant forcibly stole property. An experienced defense team begins by examining whether the force element is supported by reliable evidence—often, what the complainant describes as a robbery is actually a heated argument over personal belongings or a misunderstanding. Surveillance video, witness statements, and the physical description of the suspect all play a role. Our attorneys work with investigators to identify inconsistencies, locate witnesses the police may have overlooked, and, when appropriate, present evidence that suggests a different version of events. In Queens, many robbery arrests flow from precinct-level investigations; mistakes in identification procedures, faulty line-ups, or overly suggestive show‑ups can be challenged through motion practice.
If the evidence is substantial, a well‑prepared defense focuses on negotiation. The Queens District Attorney’s Office has experienced felony prosecutors who evaluate cases on strength of proof, the defendant’s background, and the impact on the victim. Presenting mitigating information—such as a lack of prior arrests, steady employment ties in neighborhoods like Flushing or Forest Hills, or a context that does not match the charged degree—can sometimes lead to a charge reduction or a disposition that avoids a state prison sentence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary.
What to Expect When a Robbery Case Moves Through Queens Courts
Most Queens misdemeanors and violations start at the Criminal Court at 88‑11 Sutphin Boulevard. Felony robbery charges, however, begin in the same building but may be indicted and moved to the Queens County Supreme Court, Criminal Term, for trial. Under New York’s Criminal Procedure Law, a person arrested for a felony must be arraigned without unnecessary delay—usually within 24 hours. At the arraignment, the court will advise you of the charges, determine whether bail will be set, and assign an attorney if you do not have one. Because of New York’s bail reform, cash bail is eliminated for many misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies, but robbery is a violent felony offense: bail may be set, and the amount depends on the degree of the robbery and factors like community ties and flight risk.
After arraignment, the case proceeds through discovery, motion practice, and plea discussions before trial. The timeline varies based on court scheduling and whether the case is resolved or goes to a jury. Our team prepares each case as if it will be tried, because thorough preparation often creates the leverage needed to achieve a favorable resolution. We help clients understand each step, including the possibility of an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for eligible first‑offense situations, though ACDs are limited for violent felonies. Throughout the process, we communicate with you in plain language—no legal jargon—so you can make informed decisions.
Robbery Penalties Under New York Penal Law
Robbery is charged in degrees based on the seriousness of the alleged conduct. The New York Penal Law sets three main felony classifications:
- Robbery in the Third Degree (N.Y. Penal Law § 160.05): forcibly stealing property. This is a class D felony, punishable by up to 7 years in prison.
- Robbery in the Second Degree (N.Y. Penal Law § 160.10): involves being aided by another person actually present, displaying what appears to be a firearm, or causing physical injury. This is a class C felony, carrying up to 15 years in prison.
- Robbery in the First Degree (N.Y. Penal Law § 160.15): involves the use or threatened use of a dangerous instrument, or being armed with a deadly weapon. This is a class B felony, with a maximum sentence of 25 years.
A robbery conviction also creates a permanent criminal record, potential mandatory surcharges, and, for non‑citizens, immigration consequences including possible removal. The exact sentence depends on the defendant’s prior record and any aggravating factors; the court has some discretion within the statutory range. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. helps clients understand the risks they face and works to limit the consequences wherever possible.
Attorney Credentials
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997 after serving as a prosecutor. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His background on the prosecution side gives him insight into how the State builds its robbery cases. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Mr. Sris’s Of Counsel team brings deep trial experience and familiarity with Queens courts. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. They have handled thousands of criminal matters and bring a detail‑oriented, client‑centered approach to every robbery case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am accused of robbery in Queens?
Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately and do not speak to anyone about the allegations—especially law enforcement—until you have legal counsel present. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you believe you are explaining your side of the story. Politely state that you wish to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Then call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747. Early intervention can affect whether charges are filed and what conditions the court imposes.
How is robbery defined under New York law?
Robbery is the forcible stealing of property from another person’s body or immediate presence. Unlike theft or larceny, robbery requires the use or threat of physical force. New York law categorizes robbery into three degrees—third, second, and first—depending on whether a weapon was used, an injury occurred, or the defendant acted with an accomplice. The degree determines the felony class and potential sentence.
What are the possible penalties for a robbery conviction in Queens?
A robbery conviction in Queens can result in a state prison sentence, a lengthy term of post‑release supervision, and a permanent felony record. Robbery in the third degree is a class D felony carrying up to 7 years; second degree is a class C felony carrying up to 15 years; first degree is a class B felony carrying up to 25 years. The court may also impose fines and restitution. Each case’s outcome depends on the specific facts and the defendant’s criminal history.
Can robbery charges be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, robbery charges can sometimes be reduced to a lesser offense or dismissed if the prosecution’s evidence is weak or if mitigation justifies a plea negotiation. An experienced defense attorney reviews police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements for inconsistencies. In some cases, what the police labeled a robbery may actually be a lower‑grade theft or a misunderstanding that warrants a dismissal. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel explore every avenue to achieve the trusted resolution.
What happens at an arraignment in Queens Criminal Court?
At the arraignment, the court informs you of the specific robbery charges, determines whether bail will be set, and enters a plea of not guilty if you have not yet retained a lawyer. Because robbery is a violent felony, bail may be set; the judge considers factors like community ties, employment, and the seriousness of the alleged offense. Having a private attorney present can help argue for release on recognizance or lower bail under New York’s bail reform framework.
Do I need a lawyer for a robbery charge?
Yes, you need a lawyer for a robbery charge because the stakes—a felony conviction, state prison, and a record that follows you for life—are too high to handle without experienced legal guidance. The Queens criminal justice system moves quickly, and without an attorney you risk waiving important rights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can begin protecting your interests immediately.
How does bail work in Queens for robbery cases?
Bail in Queens robbery cases is not eliminated; because robbery is a violent felony, the judge has discretion to set cash bail or bond. Under New York’s 2020 bail reform, most misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies are handled with desk appearance tickets or release on recognizance, but robbery remains a bail‑eligible offense. Your attorney can present arguments—such as longstanding community ties in neighborhoods like Astoria or Forest Hills, stable employment, and a clean record—to seek release under the least restrictive conditions possible.
What defenses are available against a robbery charge?
Possible defenses against a robbery charge include mistaken identity, lack of force, ownership or claim‑of‑right to the property, and insufficient evidence of intent. In some cases, surveillance video or credible alibi witnesses may demonstrate that the defendant was not present. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly, often uncovering contradictions in witness statements or procedural errors that undermine the prosecution’s case. Each defense must be tailored to the specific facts.
For a consultation about a robbery matter in Queens, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747. We represent clients throughout Queens, including Jamaica, Flushing, Long Island City, Forest Hills, Astoria, and all surrounding neighborhoods.
Our criminal defense practice also serves clients in other New York boroughs and nearby counties:
Manhattan ·
Brooklyn ·
Staten Island ·
Nassau County
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.