Harassment Lawyer New York, NY
Being charged with harassment in New York can upend your life. Harassment allegations often arise from heated arguments, misunderstandings, or false accusations, and a conviction can mean jail time, a permanent criminal record, and long-lasting damage to your reputation and employment. If you are facing a harassment charge in New York City—whether in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, or Staten Island—you need an experienced defense team that understands New York’s complex criminal courts. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents clients throughout New York in harassment defense matters. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to every case. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Harassment Charges Mean in New York
Harassment offenses in New York are governed by the New York Penal Law. Charges can range from a simple violation to a felony, depending on the alleged conduct and the defendant’s history. Harassment in the second degree (Penal Law § 240.26) is a violation; harassment in the first degree (§ 240.25) is a Class B misdemeanor, while aggravated harassment in the second degree (§ 240.30) is a Class A misdemeanor, and aggravated harassment in the first degree (§ 240.31) may be charged as a Class E felony. A Class A misdemeanor conviction carries a potential sentence of up to one year in jail. A felony conviction can result in state prison time and a permanent felony record.
New York City harassment cases are typically heard in the New York City Criminal Court for misdemeanors and violations, while felony cases proceed in the New York County Supreme Court, Criminal Term, located at 60 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies, so many defendants are released on their own recognizance while their case is pending. For eligible first‑time offenders, an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) may be available, under which charges are adjourned for six to twelve months and then automatically dismissed if the defendant stays out of trouble. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have experience navigating these procedural options throughout the New York City courts.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Harassment Cases
When you contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., the defense team begins by evaluating every aspect of the allegation. In many harassment cases, the key issue is whether the alleged conduct actually meets the legal definition of harassment under New York law. The prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to harass, annoy, or alarm the other person; mere offensive or annoying behavior is not always enough. The firm investigates the facts, identifies inconsistencies in the accuser’s account, and explores potential defenses such as lack of intent, false accusations, or constitutionally protected speech.
If an ACD is available, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to secure this outcome, which can result in dismissal of the charge without a criminal conviction. In cases where a dismissal is not achievable, the team pursues charge reductions and the least restrictive sentence. The firm’s attorneys appear regularly in New York County Criminal Court and the New York County Supreme Court and understand local court practices and prosecutor expectations. Throughout the process, the goal is to protect your record and your future. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997. He is admitted to practice 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). Alongside Mr. Sris, the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled criminal matters across multiple practice areas since the firm’s founding. Results may vary. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different degrees of harassment charges in New York?
Harassment charges in New York range from a violation (Harassment in the Second Degree) to a Class B or Class A misdemeanor, and Aggravated Harassment in the First Degree can be a Class E felony. The degree depends on the alleged conduct, such as whether physical contact occurred, the defendant’s intent, and whether prior orders of protection were allegedly violated. The maximum jail sentence can reach up to one year for a Class A misdemeanor, and felony convictions carry the possibility of state prison and a permanent criminal record.
What is an ACD in New York harassment cases?
An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a New York court disposition that delays a case for six to twelve months and then dismisses the charge automatically if the defendant stays out of legal trouble. An ACD is often available for first‑time harassment offenses. It avoids a conviction and, upon successful completion, the record can be sealed. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have handled numerous cases where an ACD was obtained for a client facing harassment allegations in New York City.
Do I need a lawyer for a harassment charge in New York City?
Yes, hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer is strongly recommended. Even a violation‑level harassment charge can create a criminal record if not handled properly. An attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate for an ACD or dismissal, and ensure your rights are protected during court appearances at the New York County Criminal Court or Supreme Court. Representing yourself risks an unnecessary conviction.
What should I do if I am falsely accused of harassment in New York?
If you are falsely accused, you should remain silent and contact a defense attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer, and preserve any evidence—such as text messages, social media posts, or witnesses—that may contradict the accusation. False allegations can stem from custody disputes, workplace conflicts, or retaliation, and an experienced attorney can help expose inconsistencies in the accuser’s story.
How does New York’s bail reform affect harassment cases?
Under New York’s 2020 bail reform, most defendants charged with misdemeanor harassment or non‑violent felonies are released on their own recognizance without cash bail. This means many people facing harassment charges are not held in jail while their case is pending. However, certain aggravating factors—such as violation of an order of protection—may still result in bail being set. An attorney can advise you on what to expect at arraignment.
Can a harassment charge be sealed or expunged in New York?
New York law allows for the sealing of certain criminal records under CPL § 160.59 and other provisions. A dismissal after an ACD may also be sealed, and violations can often be sealed after a waiting period. Eligibility depends on the specific offense and your criminal history. The firm can evaluate whether your harassment charge qualifies for sealing.
Related practice areas in New York City:
Manhattan Criminal Defense Lawyer |
Brooklyn Criminal Defense Lawyer |
Queens Criminal Defense Lawyer
New York legal resources:
New York Penal Law —
New York County Supreme Court —
New York State Courts
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.