If you have been convicted of a misdemeanor in New York, one of the first questions you probably have is how long that conviction will follow you. The answer matters for nearly every major decision ahead of you, from applying for a job to renting an apartment. At The Fast Law Firm, our team has...

That being said, ACDs are not always the right choice for a case, it is important to understand how they work, what conditions may apply, and what consequences can remain during the adjournment period. What Is an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal? Under New York Criminal Procedure Law § 170.55, an ACD is an adjournment...

Getting a criminal charge can be frightening, regardless of whether the case is in state or federal court. One of the most common misconceptions is that federal charges are automatically more serious than state charges. While federal cases often involve different procedures, resources, and potential penalties, both types of prosecutions can carry life-changing consequences. When...

This guide will break down what happens after an arrest in NYC, from the moment of arrest to your first court appearance and beyond. Step 1: The Arrest An arrest generally occurs when law enforcement has probable cause to believe you committed a crime, has witnessed you committing one, or is acting on a valid...

Petit larceny is the most common theft charge in New York. Classified as a misdemeanor, a conviction carries serious consequences. Up to one year in jail, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record. These can affect your employment, housing, and immigration status. If you have questions about your specific situation, speaking with a criminal defense...

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is responsible for enforcing federal securities laws and protecting investors from fraud and misconduct in the financial market. SEC violations occur when individuals, businesses, brokers, executives, or investment professionals fail to comply with these laws and regulations. While many SEC matters begin as civil investigations, some can ultimately lead...

Plea negotiations during the pre-trial phase allow you to resolve a criminal case before trial, often by agreeing to plead guilty to a reduced charge or for a more favorable sentence. These discussions can begin early and continue as the case develops, depending on the strength of the evidence and the positions of both sides....

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was created during the COVID-19 pandemic to help small businesses stay afloat by providing forgivable loans for payroll and certain operating expenses. While the program provided critical financial relief, it also became the focus of extensive federal investigations into fraud. Today, the Department of Justice (DOJ), FBI, IRS, and Small...

If you or your business is under federal investigation, you may have heard the term “deferred prosecution agreement” or “DPA.” This provides a path that avoids criminal conviction and understanding what this means and how it could affect your future is critical. That is why speaking with an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer early in...

A Guide to Protecting Your Freedom, Reputation, and Future Being accused of rape in Queens is one of the most devastating experiences a person can face. A single allegation, even a false one, can unravel your career, destroy your reputation, and put your freedom at serious risk. Sex crime cases are among the most aggressively...

Facing a federal investigation? That can be one of the most serious situations a person finds themselves in. One option that may arise in certain federal cases is a non-prosecution agreement, often called an “NPA.” While these agreements can prevent formal criminal charges from being filed, they come with serious obligations and risks that should...

At your first arraignment in New York City, prosecutors typically present the charges against you and may share limited details about the allegations, such as the complaint, basic facts, and bail arguments. They are not required to disclose all evidence at this stage, but what they say can shape how your case moves forward. Understanding...