Suffolk County Desk Appearance

You may have recently received a Desk Appearance Ticket, and not be sure what it is, and what your responsibilities are in relation to it. Some incorrectly assume that it is nothing more than a Suffolk Traffic Ticket, since they were not taken into police custody. A Suffolk County Desk Appearance Ticket Lawyer can clarify what this ticket means to you legally, and how to best protect your rights. These tickets are actually known by several different names (DAT, pink summons, white ticket) however legally they all mean the same thing. Receiving a DAT is significant, as it could mean that you now have a criminal charge pending. This can result in a criminal trial down the road, not to mention acquiring an official criminal record. That is why it is so important to contact a Suffolk County Criminal Lawyer from our office. Facing these matters can be stressful. We can support and guide you through the Suffolk County Criminal Court process. Call for an appointment today. We have an office that is conveniently located nearby you.

Usually when a person receives a DAT, it is because they have no previous criminal offenses on their record. Some general crimes that would be eligible for the issuance of a DAT would be Unlawful Possession of Marijuana or some similar low level Drug Crime, or Petit Larceny case which could be for shoplifting, or theft of goods or services (less than $1000. in value). Being cited for Criminal Possession of a Weapon could qualify for a DAT, provided the weapon was a lower level type of weapon (knife, sling shot, metal knuckles for example). Pink summons tickets are used by the police for crimes that can be classified as a violation, or a misdemeanor. A violation, while not technically considered a crime, could be punishable by 15 days or less in jail. Misdemeanor offenses are punishable by a maximum term of one year in jail. They are also very rarely issued in relation to an E felony offense (or perhaps a D felony). A felony would carry the maximum penalty of over one year (or more) in state prison.

There are crimes where you would rarely see a DAT issued, such as a Domestic Violence or Sex Crime case. Also, a DWAI or a DWI (driving while intoxicated) would not be handled with a DAT nor would a white collar crime. It is important to remember that if you have been issued a DAT, it is a matter that carries with it serious consequences if not handled properly. Contact a Suffolk County Criminal Lawyer right away to protect your rights.

If you received a DAT, it was at the discretion of the police who cited you. Because you were issued this ticket, you were not taken into custody and held on the arrest, until your hearing (Suffolk County Arraignment). You must be aware that your case is no less serious because you were allowed to return home. You are required to attend your arraignment. If you do not attend, it is within the discretion of the judge to issue a bench warrant. Depending on the particular circumstances of your case, the matter could potentially go to trial. A New York Criminal Lawyer will be able to walk you through this complicated New York Criminal Court system process and protect your interests. When you call the offices of Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC, we can lay out your options and advise you of your legal responsibilities with regard to this matter. From Manhattan to Suffolk County We can provide you with a free consultation and are ready to help when you call 800.696.9529.