Criminal Defense Lawyer on Long Island

Experienced Defense When Everything Is At Risk

At Lerner & Lerner, P.C., we focus on defending people in Nassau County and Suffolk County who are facing criminal charges. Our firm is led by the father and daughter team of Richard Lerner and Kimberly Lerner, who bring more than 70 years of combined law experience to every case. Both are former prosecutors who now use that insight to stand between our clients and the power of the state.

We know that time matters after an arrest. When you contact our criminal defense lawyers on Long Island, we work to explain what is happening, what the next steps are likely to be, and how we can help protect your rights from the very beginning.

Your freedom is on the line. Trust our criminal defense lawyer on Long Island for a strong, strategic defense. Call (516) 586-0383 to schedule a free consultation.

Why Choose Our Long Island Criminal Defense Team

Choosing the right defense lawyer after an arrest is a critical decision. You need attorneys who understand both New York criminal law and how cases actually move through Nassau County and Suffolk County courts.

Clients choose our Long Island defense team for the following reasons:

• Local Court Experience: Our attorneys understand how criminal cases are handled in Nassau County and Suffolk County courts. This practical knowledge allows us to anticipate procedures, expectations, and prosecutorial strategies.
• Collaborative Legal Team: Richard and Kimberly Lerner work together as a father-and-daughter team, providing continuity and multiple perspectives. Clients know their case is reviewed collaboratively.
• Former Prosecutors: Both attorneys previously served as prosecutors, giving them insight into charging decisions, evidence evaluation, and plea negotiations. That experience allows us to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and leverage opportunities.
• Professional Recognition: Our firm holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been recognized by Super Lawyers. These distinctions reflect high ethical standards and peer-rated legal ability.
• Clear Communication: Kimberly Lerner’s role as a legal correspondent on MSNBC, CNN, and Fox News reflects her ability to explain complex legal issues clearly. That same clarity helps clients understand their options and make informed decisions.

When your freedom and future are at stake, experience and insight matter. Our Long Island criminal defense attorneys are committed to providing focused representation, clear guidance, and strategic advocacy at every stage of the criminal process.

Navigating Criminal Charges on Long Island

In New York, a criminal case typically begins with an arrest or a summons, followed by arraignment in a local criminal court. On Long Island, that often means Nassau County District Court in Hempstead or Suffolk County District Court in Central Islip, depending on where the charge arose. At arraignment, the judge usually addresses bail or release conditions and sets the next court date. Having a criminal defense lawyer present for that first appearance may influence how the charges are described and what release terms the court will consider.

Criminal cases in this area range from misdemeanors, such as many first-time DWI offenses or lower-level theft charges, to serious felonies that may proceed to Nassau County Court or Suffolk County Court. Even a misdemeanor can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. A felony conviction can have lasting consequences that reach into nearly every part of a person’s life.

We understand that when you first read a complaint or charging document, it can be hard to tell what it really means. Our role as a criminal defense lawyer on Long Island is to review those papers with you, explain the potential exposure, and identify early issues that may be important in forming a defense. Many cases are shaped in the first days or weeks, which is why prompt legal guidance matters.

What To Do After An Arrest on Long Island

Right after an arrest, it can help to focus on a few key steps:

• Stay as calm as you can and be polite to officers, while clearly stating that you wish to remain silent and want an attorney.
• Avoid discussing the facts of the case on recorded jail phone calls or text messages, since those may be reviewed later.
• Keep any paperwork you receive, such as appearance tickets or property receipts, and bring them to your first meeting with us.
• Write down the names of any witnesses, nearby businesses with cameras, or other details you might forget over time.
• Contact our firm as soon as possible so we can prepare for the arraignment or the next court appearance.

When you reach out to Lerner & Lerner, P.C., we work to respond quickly, review what has happened so far, and explain how we can protect your rights moving forward. Our goal is to give you clear direction at a time when everything feels uncertain.

Types Of Cases We Handle

People come to us with a wide range of criminal charges, from lower-level offenses to serious felony allegations. While every case is different, many matters fall into categories we have handled extensively in Nassau County and Suffolk County courts.

We represent clients facing charges that include:

• DWI and Alcohol Offenses: Including DWI, DWAI, breath or blood test cases, and refusal allegations.
• Drug Crimes: Covering possession, distribution, and other controlled substance offenses.
• Theft and Property Crimes: Including shoplifting, burglary, larceny, and credit card offenses.
• Violent Crimes: Encompassing assault allegations, domestic incidents, and cases involving orders of protection.
• Sex Crimes: Including allegations involving sexual assault, sex offenses, and internet-based accusations.
• White Collar Crimes: Covering fraud, financial crimes, and other non-violent offenses involving allegations of deception or misuse of funds.
• Traffic Crimes: Including reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and other serious vehicle-related offenses.

If your specific charge is not listed here, we encourage you to contact our office to discuss the details of your situation with our Long Island criminal defense lawyer.

Our Approach to Building Your Defense on Long Island

Every criminal case is different, and we approach each one with careful attention to the facts. From the outset, our goal is to understand the full picture and identify issues that can meaningfully affect how the case is handled.

Our defense approach typically includes the following key steps:

• Early Case Review: We gather and review complaints, police reports, video or digital evidence, and your account of what happened. Close attention to details is critical, as small issues can sometimes make a significant difference in court.
• Prosecutorial Perspective: As former prosecutors, we evaluate evidence the way the district attorney is likely to view it. This helps us identify weaknesses in the state’s case and determine whether motions, evidentiary challenges, or negotiations are appropriate.
• Client Communication: We speak openly with clients about the strength of the case, possible outcomes, and available options. Rather than making decisions for you, we explain the choices and support the path you decide to take.
• Negotiation or Trial Strategy: In some cases, reduced charges, alternative programs, or sentencing options may be available through negotiation. In others, taking the case to trial may be the most effective way to protect your rights.
• Broader Legal Impact: We recognize that criminal charges can affect employment, health, and other legal matters. When appropriate, we consider how related issues, including disability retirement or workers’ compensation, may intersect with your defense strategy.

We cannot promise any specific result, as outcomes depend on the facts, the law, and decisions made by the court and prosecution. What we can promise is a focused effort to protect your rights and pursue the most favorable resolution possible under the circumstances.

Talk With Our Long Island Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are facing criminal charges, your next steps can shape your future. Speaking with our team gives you the chance to ask questions, understand the process, and learn how experienced former prosecutors would approach your case. A confidential conversation can bring clarity at a time when everything feels uncertain.

Get aggressive, strategic defense frome experienced criminal defense lawyer on Long Island. Contact Lerner & Lerner, P.C. or call (516) 586-0383.