Robbery Lawyer New York, NY

Facing a robbery charge in New York County (Manhattan) is serious. Robbery is a violent felony under New York Penal Law, and a conviction can lead to substantial prison time and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents individuals charged with robbery and other felony offenses in Manhattan and throughout New York City. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and Owner and Founder of the firm, together with the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, work to protect clients’ rights at every stage—from investigation through trial. If you are accused of robbery, your case will be heard in New York County Supreme Court or NYC Criminal Court, depending on the stage. The firm’s experienced attorneys appear regularly in these courts and understand the procedures of the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. We represent clients from Midtown to Lower Manhattan, the Upper East Side, Harlem, and every neighborhood in between. Reaching an experienced defense lawyer promptly can affect the outcome. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Robbery Means in New York County (Manhattan)

Robbery in New York is defined under the Penal Law as forcibly stealing property from another person. Unlike theft or larceny, robbery involves the use or threat of physical force, which elevates it to a violent felony. New York law distinguishes robbery into three degrees—first, second, and third—based on the severity of the force used, whether a weapon was displayed or discharged, and whether the victim suffered injury.

In Manhattan, robbery cases are prosecuted by the New York County District Attorney’s Office. Felony charges are handled in New York County Supreme Court at 60 Centre Street, while initial appearances and misdemeanor-level proceedings occur in NYC Criminal Court. New York’s classification system ranges from Class E felonies (the least serious) to Class A‑I felonies (the most serious). Robbery in the first degree, for example, is typically a Class B felony, while third‑degree robbery may be a Class D or C felony depending on the circumstances. Penalties for felony convictions include incarceration, probation, and fines, with potential prison terms extending from one to four years for a Class E felony up to life for a Class A‑I felony.

New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies, but robbery is a qualifying offense for bail consideration because of its violent nature. A court may set bail or order pretrial release with conditions. Additionally, violent felony offenses such as robbery are generally not eligible for an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD), which is available for many non‑violent first offenses. The prosecution’s case often rests on witness identifications, surveillance video, and the testimony of the complaining victim. An experienced attorney can scrutinize this evidence and challenge its reliability.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Robbery Cases

When someone contacts Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. about a robbery charge, the team begins by gathering information about the arrest and investigation. Even before formal charges are filed, an attorney can work to preserve evidence, identify witnesses, and communicate with law enforcement or prosecutors. Once charges are brought, the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys—working under Mr. Sris’s guidance—meticulously review discovery materials, including police reports, 911 recordings, surveillance footage, and forensic reports.

A central part of the defense is challenging the prosecution’s evidence. This can involve cross‑examining witnesses on identification issues, exposing inconsistencies in statements, and raising legal defenses such as self‑defense, lack of intent, or misidentification. In many robbery cases, the defendant’s identity or the alleged force used is disputed. The firm’s attorneys are familiar with the tactics employed by prosecutors in Manhattan and know how to negotiate for a reduction of charges or a favorable plea when appropriate. If trial is necessary, the team prepares thoroughly, including locating and interviewing defense witnesses and working with attorneys when needed.

Every step focuses on protecting the client’s legal rights and working toward the trusted achievable resolution. Because each case is unique, strategies are tailored to the specific facts, the client’s background, and the court’s calendar. Early engagement with an attorney can influence how the prosecution views the case and may affect the direction it takes.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he established the firm in 1997 and has built a multi‑state practice admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His experience includes handling complex felony cases, and he draws on that experience to guide the defense of clients charged with robbery and other serious offenses. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring additional experience in criminal defense. Together, these attorneys represent individuals across New York County, working from the firm’s New York location. The team’s background includes prosecutorial and law‑enforcement experience, which provides insight into how robbery cases are built and prosecuted. While results vary from case to case, the firm is committed to thorough preparation and vigorous advocacy on behalf of every client.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robbery Charges in New York

What is robbery under New York law?

Robbery is a forcible theft offense under New York Penal Law, defined as taking property from another person through the use or threat of physical force. Unlike larceny, which can be committed without violence, robbery is always a felony because of the force element. New York recognizes three degrees of robbery: third‑degree robbery involves simple forcible taking; second‑degree involves displaying a weapon or causing injury; first‑degree involves using a dangerous weapon or causing serious physical injury. The classification of the charge depends on the specific conduct alleged.

What are the degrees of robbery in New York?

Robbery in New York is divided into first, second, and third degrees, each with increasing levels of penalty. Third‑degree robbery (Penal Law § 160.05) is forcible stealing without aggravating factors; it is a Class D felony. Second‑degree robbery (§ 160.10) involves displaying a firearm, causing physical injury, or acting with an accomplice; it is a Class C felony. First‑degree robbery (§ 160.15) includes using a dangerous weapon or causing serious physical injury; it is a Class B felony. The degree significantly affects sentencing ranges and the availability of plea‑negotiation options.

What are the penalties for a robbery conviction in New York?

Penalties for robbery depend on the degree: a Class D felony carries up to 7 years in prison; a Class C felony up to 15 years; a Class B felony up to 25 years. In addition to incarceration, a conviction can result in probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Violent felony convictions also have collateral consequences, such as difficulty finding employment, losing housing eligibility, and, for non‑citizens, potential immigration consequences. The specific sentence depends on the defendant’s prior record and the circumstances of the offense.

Is bail available for robbery charges in New York?

Yes, robbery is among the violent felony offenses for which a judge may set bail under New York’s 2020 bail reform. While the law eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies, it created a list of qualifying offenses—including robbery—where bail remains an option. The court decides bail, release on recognizance, or supervised release after a hearing. An attorney can argue for favorable release conditions by presenting ties to the community, employment, and other factors.

Can robbery charges be reduced or dismissed?

Yes, robbery charges can be reduced or dismissed in some circumstances, depending on the evidence and legal arguments. If the prosecution’s case has weaknesses—such as an unreliable identification, lack of credible witnesses, or insufficient evidence of force—the defense can seek dismissal. Charges may also be reduced to a lesser felony or misdemeanor through plea negotiations. An attorney can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the case early and pursue the most favorable resolution possible.

How does the court process work for a robbery case in Manhattan?

A robbery case in Manhattan typically begins with an arrest and arraignment in NYC Criminal Court, followed by grand jury proceedings and, if indicted, transfer to New York County Supreme Court for trial. At arraignment, the defendant is formally charged and bail is set. If the charges are felony‑level, the case is presented to a grand jury for indictment. After indictment, motions, discovery, and plea negotiations occur. A trial, if necessary, will be held in Supreme Court. The timeline varies, but having an attorney early can affect the direction of the case from the start.

What should I do if I am arrested for robbery?

If you are arrested for robbery, exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. Do not discuss the incident with police, jail personnel, or other inmates. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can protect your rights during questioning, help with bail, and begin building your defense immediately.

Do I need a lawyer for a robbery charge?

While you are not required to hire a private lawyer, the serious nature of a robbery charge makes experienced legal representation essential. You can be represented by a public defender if you qualify, but a private attorney may have more time and resources to devote to your case. A lawyer can investigate the facts, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate with the district attorney’s office, and represent you at trial if needed. The consequences of a conviction are severe, so having a skilled advocate is important. To request a consultation with our firm, call (888) 437-7747.

How can a lawyer help defend against robbery allegations?

A lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s case by examining the evidence, highlighting witness inconsistencies, and raising legal defenses such as misidentification or self‑defense. In a robbery case, the state must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. An attorney can file motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally, cross‑examine witnesses, present an alibi, and argue that the force used was not sufficient to constitute robbery. Each case is different, so a defense strategy is built after a thorough review of the facts.

How do I find a robbery lawyer in New York County?

Look for a criminal defense attorney with experience handling violent felony cases in Manhattan and a strong understanding of local court procedures. Consider a lawyer’s background, including whether they have experience as a former prosecutor, which can provide insight into how the other side builds a case. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has represented individuals in robbery cases throughout New York County since 1997. To discuss your matter, reach us at (888) 437-7747.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Last reviewed: July 2026