Long Island Desk Appearance Ticket

While receiving a Desk Appearance Ticket may seem rather benign, much like a Long Island Traffic Ticket, it is actually a significant legal matter. A Long Island Desk Appearance Ticket Lawyer is familiar with what this means to you legally, and how to successfully handle the matter. You may require a lawyer to represent you in the appropriate Long Island Criminal Court, and help you sort out the legal details involved. These tickets are also known as a pink summons ticket. Depending on where you received your Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) is also known as a pink or white ticket. A DAT can mean that you are now facing a criminal charge, which can escalate to a trial, and the beginning of a criminal record. There is a lot at stake, so it important to contact a Long Island Criminal Lawyer from our office. We can help guide you through the legal process and offer you a free consultation when you call any of our offices in Long Island, Nassau County or Suffolk County.

Most people are only eligible to receive a DAT if they have a clean record, and they are found in violation (first offense) of a low level crime. Drug Crimes often fall into this category, particularly common is Marijuana Possession. If you have been cited for carrying a small weapon like a knife (otherwise known as Criminal Possession of a Weapon), or have been caught shoplifting (Petit Larceny), you may receive a DAT. These tickets are given for what is termed a “violation,” or a misdemeanor charge. It is possible to receive a DAT for Class E (or D), felonies, but this is rarely seen. Should you meet with a Long Island Desk Appearance Ticket Lawyer, they can educate you on these matters, as well as what constitutes a misdemeanor as opposed to a felony. Anything punishable by 1 year or less in jail is a misdemeanor; while anything punishable for over one year in prison is a felony. Incidentally, there are various offenses that would rarely receive a DAT. These include more serious crimes, where safety becomes an issue such as Domestic Violence or a Sex Crime. A charge for driving while impaired or intoxicated (DWI) charge would rarely if ever receive a DAT, because in the interest of safety the police would take you into custody (so you don’t get back in your car and drive away). There are also some financial white collar crimes that would not be eligible for a DAT.

If you had not received a DAT, you would have been detained in a holding cell until your Long Island Arraignment. This detention could have been for up to twenty four hours, or even more. The fact that you were let go does not lessen the severity of your situation. You must appear for your Nassau County of Suffolk County arraignment (the date and time will be on your ticket). At that time the Judge will tell you what you are charged with, and ask how you plead. You will not be able to discuss or argue anything further about your case at this particular hearing. An arrest warrant may be issued if you miss your hearing. Be aware that this matter can go to trial and end in a conviction. If you are convicted, you would have a criminal record. As such it is recommended you contact a New York Criminal Lawyer to protect your interests. We can help you understand the Criminal Court system, and counsel you on how to best move forward with your case. Set up an appointment with a Long Island Criminal Lawyer today from Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC. We can help you through this stressful time and ensure that you are properly represented in the Criminal Court. We will provide you with a free consultation at one of our many offices throughout New York, whether you live Long Island, Nassau County or Suffolk County or Manhattan. Call us for your consultation today at 800.696.9529.