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ARRESTED FOR A CRIME IN NASSAU COUNTY, LONG ISLAND? CALL US IMMEDIATELY!
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Misdemeanor Crimes

Nassau County, Long Island Misdemeanor Crimes Lawyer

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in New York, you may feel uncertain about your future. While New York misdemeanor crimes are not as severe as felonies, a misdemeanor conviction can still lead to jail time, fines, probation, and a criminal record—consequences that can impact your employment, reputation, and personal life. Having legal representation from a dedicated criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference. Nassau County, Long Island defense lawyer Gianni Karmily is committed to protecting your rights, building a strong defense, and fighting for the best possible outcome on your misdemeanor case.

Don’t jeopardize your freedom—seek legal representation from Long Island misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer Gianni Karmily as soon as possible.

To schedule a confidential case evaluation with the Law Firm of Gianni Karmily, PLLC, call the Great Neck office at (516) 630-3405 or the Hempstead office at (516) 614-4228.

Nassau County, Long Island Misdemeanor Lawyer

Classification of New York Misdemeanor Crimes

In New York, misdemeanors are categorized as Class A, Class B, and unclassified. Class A and Class B misdemeanors are defined in the Penal Law. Class A carries higher maximum penalties than Class B. Unclassified misdemeanors are established by statutes outside the Penal Law and vary in severity. Some have penalties equal to or greater than Class A misdemeanors, while others are less serious.

Class A Misdemeanor NY

Class A misdemeanors are the most serious misdemeanor offenses under New York Penal Law. These crimes are just one step down from a felony offense. Some examples of Class A misdemeanors in New York include:

Weapon, Assault, and Violent Misdemeanor Offenses

  • Third-Degree Assault § 120.00 – Third-degree assault charges in New York occur when a person intentionally, recklessly, or with criminal negligence by means of a deadly weapon or a dangerous instrument causes physical injury to another individual.
  • Second-Degree Menacing § 120.14 – Menacing charges in New York involve intentionally placing or attempting to place another person in fear of physical injury, serious injury, or death by displaying a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or what appears to be a firearm.
  • Third-Degree Stalking § 120.50 – Involves repeatedly engaging in conduct that intentionally places another person in fear of physical harm, property damage, or harm to their employment or business relationships.
  • Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation § 121.11 – Obstruction of breathing charge in New York is a misdemeanor charge that applies when a person applies pressure to another person’s throat or neck or blocks their nose or mouth, restricting their ability to breathe.
  • Fourth-Degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon § 265.01 – This New York gun crime charge involves unlawfully possessing a weapon such as a firearm, switchblade knife, or other dangerous instruments with intent to use it unlawfully against another.
  • Second-Degree Unlawful Imprisonment § 135.05 – Happens when a person restrains another individual unlawfully and without consent.

If you’re facing misdemeanor charges under New York Penal Law, you’ll need strong legal representation. Contact Nassau County, Long Island misdemeanor defense lawyer Gianni Karmily to discuss your misdemeanor case.

Property, Business, and Theft Crimes

  • Fourth-Degree Criminal Mischief § 145.00 – A person commits fourth-degree criminal mischief in New York by intentionally damaging someone else’s property without permission.
  • Fifth-Degree Arson § 150.01 – When a person intentionally damages the property of another without consent of the owner by intentionally starting a fire or causing an explosion, they can be charged with fifth-degree arson under New York Penal Law.
  • Petty Theft (Petit Larceny under $1,000) § 155.25 – The difference between petit larceny and higher levels of larceny in New York is the monetary value of the property allegedly stolen. A person is charged with petty theft or petit larceny when they unlawfully take property valued at $1,000 or less with the intent of permanently depriving the owner. Contact Nassau County, Long Island theft crimes defense lawyer Gianni Karmily to learn more.
  • Fifth-Degree Possession of Stolen Property § 165.40 – A person commits this criminal offense by knowingly possessing stolen property, regardless of how it was acquired.
  • Third-Degree Forgery § 170.05 – This misdemeanor offense occurs when a person falsely makes, completes, or alters a written instrument intending to defraud.
  • Third-Degree Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument § 170.20 – A person is charged with this misdemeanor crime when they knowingly possess a forged document with intent to use or pass it off as genuine.
  • Second-Degree Rent Gouging § 180.56 – This misdemeanor crime occurs when a landlord unlawfully overcharges rent in violation of rent control or stabilization laws.
  • Second-Degree Criminal Trespass § 140.15 – A person commits this misdemeanor crime by unlawfully entering or remaining in a dwelling without permission. If you’re wondering how to beat a trespassing charge in New York, contact Long Island trespassing defense lawyer Gianni Karmily.
  • Second-Degree Scheme to Defraud § 190.60 – When a person engages in a scheme with intentions of defrauding multiple people and obtains property from at least one of them, this leads to charges for second-degree scheme to defraud in New York.
  • Second-Degree Cemetery Desecration § 145.22 – A person is guilty of second-degree cemetery desecration if they damage, vandalize, or steal from a cemetery plot or burial site.
  • Possession of Usurious Loan Records § 190.45 – This misdemeanor crime involves possessing records of illegal high-interest loans commonly associated with loan sharking.
  • Third-Degree Auto Stripping § 165.09 – A person commits this crime by removing or damaging parts of a vehicle without the owner’s consent.

While not as serious as felony charges, a misdemeanor conviction can have lasting effects on your life. If you are facing misdemeanor charges in New York State, Nassau County, Long Island misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer Gianni Karmily offers skilled legal representation.

Endangerment Charges

  • Endangering the Welfare of a Child § 260.10 – A person commits endangering the welfare of a child in New York by knowingly acting in a way that is likely to harm the physical, mental, or moral well-being of a child under 17.
  • Second-Degree Endangering the Welfare of an Incompetent or Physically Disabled Person § 260.24 – This occurs when a person recklessly engages in conduct that is likely to cause injury or harm to an individual who is unable to care for themselves due to a disability or impairment.
  • Second-Degree Reckless Endangerment § 120.20 – Happens when a person recklessly engages in conduct that creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury to another.

If you’re facing charges for this New York misdemeanor crime, contact Nassau County, Long Island reckless endangerment lawyer Gianni Karmily.

Sexual Offenses and Public Decency Violations

  • Sexual Misconduct § 130.20 – A person commits this offense by engaging in vaginal, oral, or anal sexual conduct without the other person’s consent.
  • Forcible Touching § 130.52 – A person commits this offense by intentionally touching another person’s intimate parts without the other person’s consent.
  • Third-Degree Obscenity § 235.05 – This occurs when a person knowingly promotes, sells, or distributes obscene material.
  • Fourth-Degree Promoting Prostitution § 230.20 – A person is guilty of this offense when they knowingly advance or profit from prostitution.

Sex-related misdemeanor offenses carry harsh penalties under New York Penal Law. For adept legal representation, contact Nassau County, Long Island sex crimes lawyer Gianni Karmily.

Harassment, Threats, and Public Order Offenses

  • Second-Degree Aggravated Harassment § 240.30 – By definition, harassment in New York is engaging in conduct with intent to harass, annoy, alarm, or threaten another person. A person will face misdemeanor harassment charges in New York for communicating threats or engaging in harassing conduct with the intent to annoy, threaten, or alarm another person.
  • Third-Degree Falsely Reporting an Incident § 240.50 – This occurs when a person knowingly provides false information about a crime, emergency, or catastrophe, leading to unnecessary public alarm or response from police officers.
  • Second-Degree Riot § 240.05 – This offense involves four or more people engaging in violent or tumultuous conduct that creates a grave risk of public alarm.
  • Inciting to Riot § 240.08 – A person commits this misdemeanor crime by urging or instigating ten or more people to engage in tumultuous and violent conduct that is likely to create public alarm.
  • Third-Degree Coercion § 135.60 – This occurs when a person compels another to act against their will by threatening physical harm, property damage, or other forms of pressure.

If you’re facing misdemeanor charges in New York, contact Nassau County, Long Island misdemeanor defense attorney Gianni Karmily.

Obstruction of Justice and Government Administration

  • Second-Degree Obstructing Governmental Administration § 195.05 – A person commits this offense by intentionally interfering with a public servant performing their official duties.
  • Third-Degree Escape § 205.05 – This occurs when a person unlawfully escapes from custody.
  • Resisting Arrest § 205.30 – A person is guilty of resisting arrest in New York when they intentionally prevent or attempt to prevent a police officer from making an authorized arrest.
  • Fourth-Degree Tampering with a Witness § 215.10 – When a person intentionally attempts to induce a witness to avoid testifying or provide false testimony, they can be charged with fourth-degree tampering with a witness in New York.
  • First-Degree Tampering With a Juror § 215.25 – When a person attempts to influence a juror through intimidation or unlawful means, under New York Penal Law, they can be charged with tampering with a juror in the first degree.
  • Compounding a Crime §215.45 – A person is charged with this offense if they accept or agree to accept a benefit in exchange for not reporting a crime.
  • Second-Degree Criminal Contempt § 215.50 – When a person willfully disobeys a court order or engages in disruptive behavior in court, they can be charged with second-degree criminal contempt in New York.
  • Third-Degree Bail Jumping § 215.55 – When a person fails to appear in court after being released on bail for a misdemeanor, they can be charged with third-degree bail jumping under New York Penal Law.
  • Unlawful Disposition of Assets Subject to Forfeiture § 215.80 – A person is guilty of unlawful disposition of assets subject to forfeiture if they transfer or hide property subject to court-ordered forfeiture.
  • Third-Degree Perjury § 210.05 – When a person knowingly makes a false statement under oath in a situation where the law requires truthful testimony, they can be charged with third-degree perjury in New York.

New York courts take obstruction of justice seriously. If you’ve been charged, you’ll need a dedicated Nassau County, Long Island, misdemeanor lawyer to defend your legal rights.

Financial Crimes and Fraud

  • Fifth-Degree Welfare Fraud § 158.05 – A person commits this offense by fraudulently obtaining public assistance benefits to which they are not entitled.
  • Second-Degree Commercial Bribe § 180.00 – When a person offers or gives a benefit to an employee or agent with intent to influence their conduct without their employer’s consent, they can be charged with second-degree commercial bribe in New York State.
  • Second-Degree Commercial Bribe Receiving § 180.05 – When someone, acting as an employee or agent, accepts a bribe in exchange for violating their duty to their employer, they can be charged with second-degree commercial bribe receiving under New York Penal Law.
  • Second-Degree Possession of Gambling Records § 225.15 – When a person knowingly possesses records related to illegal gambling activities, they can be charged with second-degree possession of gambling records in New York.
  • Fourth-Degree Computer Tampering § 156.20 – A person is charged with this offense when they knowingly access a computer system without authorization and alter or destroy data.
  • Third Degree Possession of Personal Identification Information §190.81 – A person is guilty of this offense when they possess someone else’s personal identifying information with intent to commit a crime.

Drug and Controlled Substance Offenses

  • Seventh-Degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance § 220.03 – When a person knowingly possesses a small amount of a controlled substance without a valid prescription, they can be charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance in New York.
  • Third-Degree Possession of Marijuana § 222.30 – This occurs when a person unlawfully possesses more than a specified amount of cannabis.
  • Third-Degree Criminal Sale of Marijuana § 222.50 – A person is charged with this offense when they unlawfully sell cannabis in an amount exceeding the legal limit.
  • Second-Degree Criminal Possession of Methamphetamine Manufacturing Material § 220.70 – When a person possesses specific chemicals or equipment with intent to manufacture methamphetamine, they can be charged with second-degree criminal possession in New York.

While recent changes to the law have made smaller amounts of marijuana legal in New York, having an illegal amount of marijuana or being in possession of a controlled substance can lead to jail time or probation for a misdemeanor conviction in some cases. For dedicated legal assistance, contact Nassau County, Long Island drug crimes lawyer Gianni Karmily.

Class B Misdemeanor New York

A Class B misdemeanor is not as serious as a Class A misdemeanor. This type of crime is considered one step above a violation, which is not considered a crime. Some examples of Class B misdemeanors include:

Misdemeanor Crimes Involving Threats of Harm

  • Third-Degree Menacing § 120.15 – A person commits this offense by intentionally placing another person in fear of physical injury, serious physical injury, or death through physical menace.
  • First-Degree Harassment § 240.25 – This occurs when a person repeatedly follows another individual or engages in a course of conduct intended to place them in reasonable fear of physical injury.
  • Fourth-Degree Stalking § 120.45 – A person is charged with this offense when they intentionally engage in repeated conduct that causes another person to reasonably fear for their safety.

Sexual Offenses and Public Decency

  • Third-Degree Sexual Abuse – § 130.55 – A person commits this offense by subjecting another person to sexual contact without their consent.
  • Public Lewdness – § 245.00 – This occurs when a person intentionally exposes their private parts in a lewd manner in a public place or where they may readily be observed.
  • Prostitution – § 230.00 – This happens when a person engages or agrees or offers to engage in sexual conduct in exchange for money or something of value.
  • Permitting Prostitution – § 230.40 – A person commits this offense by knowingly allowing their premises to be used for prostitution.

Even lower-level New York misdemeanor crimes carry harsh punishment. If you’re facing a criminal charge, contact Nassau County, Long Island misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer Gianni Karmily.

Trespassing and Property Offenses

  • Third-Degree Criminal Trespass § 140.10 – When a person unlawfully enters or remains on property that is fenced, enclosed, or designated for certain restricted use, they can be charged with third-degree criminal trespass in New York.
  • Reckless Endangerment of Property § 145.25 – This occurs when a person recklessly engages in conduct that creates a substantial risk of damaging another person’s property worth more than $250.
  • Third-Degree Criminal Tampering § 145.14 – A person is guilty of this offense when they tamper with another person’s property intending to cause substantial inconvenience.
  • Possession of Graffiti Instruments § 145.65 – This happens when a person possesses tools, markers, or substances designed for making graffiti with intent to use them unlawfully.

Fraud, Theft and Business Crimes

  • Issuing a Bad Check § 190.05 – A person commits this offense by knowingly writing or passing a check without sufficient funds in the account to cover it.
  • Fortune Telling § 165.35 – This occurs when a person claims to predict the future or influence events in exchange for money or something of value.
  • Criminal Possession of an Anti-Security Item § 170.47 – A person is charged with this offense when they possess tools or devices designed to bypass or disable security measures with intent to use them unlawfully.
  • Third-Degree Rent Gouging § 180.55 – A person commits this offense by knowingly charging an excessive and illegal rent amount in violation of housing regulations.
  • Corporate Official Misconduct § 190.35 – This happens when a corporate officer or employee acts unlawfully in their official capacity for personal gain or to harm the corporation.

Obstruction of Justice and Government Administration

  • Refusing to Aid a Peace or a Police Officer § 195.10 – A person commits this offense by knowingly refusing to assist a police or peace officer when lawfully directed to do so.
  • Employer Unlawfully Penalizing Witness or Victim § 215.14 – This occurs when an employer takes retaliatory action against an employee for cooperating as a witness or victim in a criminal proceeding.
  • Second-Degree Tampering with a Juror § 215.23 – A person is charged with this offense when they attempt to influence a juror’s decision through unauthorized communication or conduct.

Public Order and Loitering Offenses

  • Unlawful Assembly § 240.10 – A person commits this offense by gathering with four or more people with intent to engage in violent or tumultuous conduct that risks public alarm.
  • First-Degree Loitering § 240.36 – This occurs when a person remains in a public place with intent to engage in drug-related activity, such as selling or using narcotics.
  • Second-Degree Criminal Nuisance § 240.45 – A person is charged with this offense when they either knowingly or recklessly create or maintain a condition, through conduct that is unlawful or unreasonable under the circumstances, which endangers the safety or health of a considerable number of people; or knowingly operate or maintain a premises where people gather to engage in unlawful conduct.
  • Second-Degree Harming an Animal Trained to Aid a Person with a Disability § 195.11 – When a person intentionally injures a guide dog, service dog, or other trained animal assisting a person with a disability, they can be charged with second-degree harming of a service animal.

Public Safety Offenses

  • Unlawfully Possessing or Selling Noxious Material § 270.05 – A person commits this offense by unlawfully possessing, manufacturing, or selling substances designed to cause harm, such as tear gas or stink bombs.
  • Creating a Hazard § 270.10 – A person is charged with this offense when they either leave a large container with an automatic locking lid in a place where it might attract children without removing the locking mechanism, or fail to cover an abandoned well or cesspool with proper protective construction.
  • Unlawfully Refusing to Yield a Party Line § 270.15 – These charges apply when a person knowingly refuses to give up a shared telephone when another person needs it for an emergency. This charge is frequently associated with domestic situations where one party allegedly blocks access to emergency services. Contact Long Island domestic violence defense lawyer Gianni Karmily to learn more.
  • Sixth-Degree Conspiracy – § 105.00 – A person commits this offense by agreeing with one or more people to engage in conduct that constitutes a crime.

Unclassified Misdemeanor New York

These criminal offenses are known as unclassified misdemeanor crimes. These crimes could be just as serious as other misdemeanor crimes, even though they do not fall under Class A or Class B misdemeanors. Examples include:

misdemeanor defense Long Island

Violations in New York

In New York State, common violations are non-crimes which are less severe than misdemeanors and felonies, typically punishable by fines or jail time in local jail for up to 15 days.

  • Second-Degree Hazing § 120.17 – A person commits second-degree hazing by engaging in an initiation or affiliation ritual that creates a substantial risk of physical injury to another person.
  • Disorderly Conduct § 240.20 – When a person engages in disruptive or offensive behavior in public, such as fighting, making unreasonable noise, or obstructing traffic, they can face disorderly conduct charges in New York.
  • Appearance in Public Under the Influence of Narcotics or a Drug Other Than Alcohol § 240.40 – This happens when a person is visibly under the influence of drugs in a public place to the extent that they endanger themselves or others or property, or annoy persons in their vicinity.
  • Unlawful Possession of Marijuana § 221.05 – A person commits this offense by knowingly possessing a small amount of marijuana that exceeds the legal possession limit.

What is the Maximum Punishment For a Misdemeanor in New York?

The penalties for a misdemeanor conviction in New York will vary depending on a number of factors, including the classification of the offense.

Class A Misdemeanor NY Punishment

Class A misdemeanors are the most serious New York misdemeanor crimes under New York Penal Law and carry significant penalties. A conviction can result in up to 364 days in county jail, probation for up to three years, and fines of up to $1,000 (or higher in certain cases). Additional consequences may include community service, mandatory treatment programs, and a permanent record. While misdemeanors are not as severe as felonies, a conviction can still impact employment, housing, and professional licensing.

In some cases, it may be possible to reduce charges, secure alternative sentencing, or even get the case dismissed. Contact Nassau County, Long Island criminal defense lawyer Gianni Karmily to learn about your legal rights.

Class B Misdemeanor NY Punishment

Class B misdemeanors are lower-level New York misdemeanor crimes but still carry legal consequences. A misdemeanor conviction can result in up to 90 days in county jail, probation for up to one year (or up to three years for public lewdness convictions), and fines of up to $500. While the penalties are less severe than for a Class A misdemeanor, a conviction can still lead to a criminal record, community service, mandatory programs, and potential difficulties with employment or housing. Having a strong legal defense can help minimize these penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail time, or even get the charges dismissed.

Unclassified Misdemeanor NY Punishment

The penalties for an unclassified misdemeanor can vary depending on the offense. But in general, the law states that you cannot be sentenced to more than 364 days in jail for an unclassified misdemeanor conviction.

Additional Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction

  • A criminal record that may affect employment, housing, and immigration status
  • Possible driver’s license suspension or revocation for traffic-related offenses
  • Mandatory rehabilitation programs, community service, or anger management

Misdemeanor vs Felony Charges in New York

In New York, criminal charges are classified as misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on their severity.

Felony convictions in New York State carry potential sentences of more than one year in state prison. Felony charges are divided into five classes: A, B, C, D, and E, with Class A felonies being the most severe (e.g., murder) and Class E felonies being the least severe (e.g., certain types of theft or fraud). Felony convictions can result in lengthy state prison sentences, heavy fines, and permanent records that affect employment and benefits.

Under New York Penal Law, misdemeanor crimes are less severe than felonies. Misdemeanor convictions carry maximum jail sentences of up to 364 days in jail. Some misdemeanors result in probation, fines, and/or community service rather than a local jail sentence.

A key distinction between felonies and misdemeanors is the impact on criminal records, voting rights, firearm possession, and employment opportunities. Certain repeat offenses or circumstances (such as using a weapon) can elevate a misdemeanor case to a felony. This can mean the defendant, if convicted, may spend time in state prison instead of local jail.

If you are facing felony charges in New York, contact Nassau County, Long Island criminal defense lawyer Gianni Karmily.

New York Misdemeanor Crimes

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help With Misdemeanor Charges in New York

Nassau County, Long Island misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer Gianni Karmily will help your case in the following ways:

  • Evaluate case details and develop a strong legal defense
  • Negotiate plea deals or alternative sentencing options
  • Challenge evidence and procedural errors in court
  • Work to reduce charges from a misdemeanor to a violation
  • Represent clients in criminal court to dismiss charges or secure acquittals

Do I Need a Lawyer For a First-Time Misdemeanor in New York?

Many people believe that they won’t need a defense attorney because New York misdemeanor crimes are not serious. But if you are convicted of a misdemeanor crime, you could have a criminal record that follows you for the rest of your life. Having a conviction on your record could impact employment opportunities, your reputation, and other areas of your life. Jail time and probation is also a possibility if you are convicted of a misdemeanor.

Misdemeanor charges under New York law will not go away if you ignore them. The only realistic way to beat these charges—and avoid the penalties of a conviction—is to hire a dedicated criminal defense attorney. Let Nassau County, Long Island misdemeanor crimes lawyer Gianni Karmily protect your rights and help you clear your name.

Call Nassau County, Long Island Misdemeanor Defense Attorney Today

Have you been charged with a misdemeanor in Nassau County, Long Island? New York misdemeanor convictions carry harsh penalties. Fight back with the help of criminal defense attorney Gianni Karmily at the Law Firm of Gianni Karmily, PLLC. Gianni has dedicated his career to helping people accused of committing misdemeanors and felonies fight for their freedom. Let him aggressively pursue the best possible outcome on your case.

To schedule a confidential case evaluation with the Law Firm of Gianni Karmily, PLLC, call the Great Neck office at (516) 630-3405 or the Hempstead office at (516) 614-4228.

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