Not a rising star. The Star. I would say Elena has the magic to work deals but the truth is the Government knows she will litigate the issues. She is prepared to go to trial and unafraid to do so. Absolutely one of the top criminal defense lawyers in the nation to day.
Nassau County
What We Offer:
- Confidential Consultations
- 24/7 Availability
- Nassau County Court Representation
- First-Time Offender Support
- Federal & State Criminal Defense
- Sex Crime Defense
- Direct Attorney Access
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If you’re facing criminal charges in Nassau County, The Fast Law Firm, P.C. provides fast, aggressive legal defense when your future is on the line. We defend clients in Nassau County courts and in federal court across New York. Whether it’s your first offense or a major federal indictment, we fight hard to protect your freedom.
How Nassau County Prosecutes Criminal Cases
In Nassau County, the prosecution process moves swiftly once an arrest occurs. Most defendants appear first in District Court in Hempstead, which handles misdemeanors, arraignments, and desk appearance tickets (DATs).
The Nassau County District Attorney’s Office assigns cases to specific bureaus based on severity:
- District Court Bureau — misdemeanors, violations, and arraignments.
- County Court Bureau — felony cases that can lead to state prison time.
- Major Offense and Special Victims Bureaus — serious or sensitive cases such as homicide or sexual assault.
After arraignment, prosecutors must disclose their evidence under New York’s discovery laws. The defense can then file motions to challenge how evidence was obtained, seek dismissal of weak counts, or negotiate plea terms. Felony cases that are not resolved early are transferred to the County Court in Mineola for grand jury review or trial.
Having a defense lawyer involved before your first appearance gives you the strongest possible foundation, whether you aim for dismissal, a reduced plea, or a trial defense.
Having a defense lawyer involved before your first appearance gives you the strongest possible foundation, whether you aim for dismissal, a reduced plea, or a trial defense.
Federal Charges in Nassau County
Federal prosecutions involving Nassau County are handled in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, either at the Brooklyn Courthouse or the Central Islip Courthouse. These cases often stem from investigations by the FBI, DEA, or IRS, and the penalties can include mandatory prison sentences and substantial fines.
We represent clients facing federal charges such as:
- Drug trafficking and conspiracy
- Wire fraud, bank fraud, or securities fraud
- RICO and organized crime allegations
- Firearms and weapons violations
- Cybercrime and identity theft
Our defense approach focuses on investigating procedural errors, challenging search warrants or surveillance, and negotiating with federal prosecutors before indictment when possible. Early action can change the course of a federal case.
State-Level Crimes in Nassau County
Most arrests in Nassau County are prosecuted under New York State law in either District Court (for misdemeanors) or County Court (for felonies). Each case follows its own path, but the goal remains the same: reducing or dismissing the charges and protecting your record.
Felony cases begin with an arraignment in Hempstead’s District Court before being transferred to County Court in Mineola once the grand jury indicts.
We handle:
- Drug possession, sale, and distribution
- Assault, domestic violence, and other violent offenses
- Theft, burglary, and robbery
- Gun and weapon charges
- Traffic misdemeanors and DWI
Our team files motions to suppress illegal searches, challenges probable cause, and fights for alternative outcomes such as diversion programs or conditional discharges when available.
Sex Crime Defense in Nassau County
Sex crime cases are prosecuted aggressively by the Special Victims Bureau of the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office. These cases require careful handling and immediate legal representation to protect your rights.
We defend clients accused of:
- Rape and sexual assault
- Sexual abuse or misconduct involving minors
- Child pornography and online solicitation
- Indecent exposure and lewd conduct
We move quickly to challenge unreliable evidence, examine witness credibility, and ensure that law enforcement respects due process during investigation and prosecution. A strong, early defense is key to protecting both your reputation and your freedom.
Defense for First-Time Offenders
A first arrest can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life, but it doesn’t have to define your future. In Nassau County, first-time offenders may be eligible for alternative dispositions such as:
- Adjournment in contemplation of dismissal (ACD), which can lead to a full dismissal if you stay out of trouble for a set period.
- Conditional discharge or probation instead of jail time.
- Diversion programs, including treatment or community service options.
At The Fast Law Firm, we focus on keeping your record clean whenever possible. We advocate for outcomes that protect your employment, education, and immigration status while minimizing long-term consequences.
The Fast Law Difference
At The Fast Law Firm, we approach every case with the urgency and attention it deserves. We’re the law firm that slows down to get to know you. That begins with founder Elena Fast, whose leadership shapes how we defend our clients and how we treat them as individuals, not case numbers.
Elena is personally involved in building your defense from day one. She listens, evaluates the facts with care, and collaborates closely with our team to develop a strategy tailored to your goals. It’s a level of involvement you don’t often find in a city as fast-paced as New York, and it’s something our clients value.
We prepare thoroughly, communicate clearly, and take your case as seriously as you do. Prosecutors know when they’re up against a defense team that’s ready for trial. So do judges. If you’re ready to fight back, we’re prepared to help.
- top 40 under 40
- national association of distinguished counsel
- lawyers of distinction
- Avvo rating - 10 superb
- Elite Lawyer Legal Excellence
- Rated by Super Lawyers
- 10 Best 2019
- Expertise: Best Criminal Attorney in Brooklyn 2021-22
- The National Top 100 Trial Lawyers
Why Local Knowledge Matters
Understanding exactly how Hempstead’s district court handles calendars, how assignment judges in Mineola manage felony dockets, and how individual Nassau prosecutors respond to motions can make a big difference. We track local judicial practices and prosecutor tendencies to anticipate how a case may unfold in Nassau County’s busy courts.
Every case is unique. We tailor defense paths depending on the charges, your history, and the procedural options available in Nassau.
Nassau County Court / Supreme Court (Felonies)
262 Old Country Road, Mineola, NY 11501
(516) 493-3710
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Felony trials, grand jury indictments, and major state prosecutions are held here.
U.S. District Court – Eastern District of New York (Federal Cases)
Central Islip Courthouse
100 Federal Plaza, Central Islip, NY 11722
(631) 712-6000
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Brooklyn Courthouse
225 Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201
(718) 613-2600
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Handle all federal prosecutions involving Nassau County.
Note: Court hours and arraignment schedules may occasionally vary for holidays or other reasons. It’s always best to confirm directly with the court before your scheduled appearance.
Arrested in Nassau County? Get Help Now
Don’t wait until deadlines pass or plea offers become permanent. If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation in Nassau County, reach out to us. We will evaluate your case, explain your rights and options, and begin building a defense designed to protect your freedom. Contact The Fast Law Firm, P.C., a trusted Nassau County criminal defense firm, to schedule your consultation today.
The best law firm ever! They came thru for me when I really needed them.
The Fast Law Firm. Excellent attorney—very professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated. Handled my case with care and delivered great results. Highly recommend
My name is Christina. I found The Fast Law Firm via online search. I consulted with Michael Perkins about a criminal charge and needed his input. This gentleman was so helpful. He went above and beyond with helping me. I appreciate his expertise on moving forward with my case. Michael reassured me that my case…
Continue ReadingI talked to Sam. She was very calm, well spoken, and organized. She was very helpful! Then Mr. Perkins picked up my case and reached out to me to talk everything through and assured me it was going to be ok. he got my case dismissed right away! Best law firm I’ve ever worked with….
Continue ReadingBest law firm I ever worked with! Samantha (aka Sam) was extremely helpful and responsive. She picked up my case right away and assisted me the best she could. Everything worked very smoothly and got my case dismissed in arraignment. Great firm to work with! Would recommend any day!