Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manhattan, NY

Charged with a crime in Manhattan? Talk to a former prosecutor before you say anything else.

Whether NYPD officers stopped you on the subway platform at 42nd Street, executed a search warrant at your Upper West Side apartment, or took you into custody following an incident near Times Square, the criminal defense lawyer you call in those first hours can change the entire trajectory of what follows. Marwaha Law Group, PLLC represents individuals throughout Manhattan who are facing state and federal charges — from a desk appearance ticket issued outside a Chelsea bar to a felony arraignment at 100 Centre Street. Founding attorney Nipun Marwaha spent years on the prosecution side, learning how the government assembles a case long before it reaches a courtroom. He founded this firm to bring that same knowledge to the people being charged. If you have been arrested, received a DAT, or learned that detectives are asking around about you anywhere in Manhattan, now is the moment to act.


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What You Get When You Hire Our Manhattan Criminal Defense Lawyers

There is a common misconception that a criminal defense lawyer simply shows up, stands next to you, and says a few words to a judge. The reality of Manhattan criminal practice is far more demanding than that. Manhattan's court system — one of the busiest in the country — moves at a pace that punishes the unprepared. When Marwaha Law Group takes your case, we take ownership of it: reviewing every detail of the arrest, scrutinizing the conduct of law enforcement, and examining the prosecution's evidence for constitutional violations, procedural errors, and gaps in proof that could shift the outcome in your favor.

  • A private, confidential case review that breaks down your charges, realistic defense options, and potential consequences in plain, straightforward language — no legal jargon.
  • An independent factual investigation into the events surrounding your arrest, separate from anything law enforcement claims.
  • Full representation at every stage of your Manhattan case — arraignment at Manhattan Criminal Court, suppression hearings, pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, and trial if it comes to that.
  • Around-the-clock availability for urgent situations, because arrests in Manhattan happen at all hours — after a night in the East Village, during a traffic stop on the FDR Drive, or following a dispute in Harlem.
  • Prompt communication, with calls and messages returned the same day, not after a week.
  • Trial-ready preparation, using mock trials and focus groups to stress-test our strategy well before we stand before a Manhattan jury.


Every decision we make is built around the same objective: defend your rights aggressively, dismantle the case being built against you, and pursue the best outcome that the actual facts of your Manhattan case allow.


A Former Prosecutor's Perspective, Now Working for Your Defense

The most consequential moments in a Manhattan criminal matter often take place long before a jury is ever selected — sometimes before charges are even formally filed. Nipun Marwaha spent nearly a decade as a prosecutor, sitting across from defense attorneys in courtrooms from lower Manhattan to the federal courthouse at Foley Square. He watched how cases were evaluated internally, how evidence was used to squeeze defendants into unfavorable pleas, and how quickly things moved when defense counsel was not prepared. What he saw led him to leave — an office that prioritized conviction numbers over actual justice — and to build a firm that uses that prosecutorial experience to protect the accused.


That prosecutorial background gives our criminal defense lawyers a concrete, practical edge in Manhattan cases. We can anticipate how a DA's office is likely to frame the evidence, where its theory of the case is vulnerable, and when to push hard for a dismissal or reduction rather than accepting the first offer put on the table. Nipun has earned a 9.3 "Superb" rating from Avvo, recognition as a Super Lawyers Rising Star across multiple years, and a reputation in Manhattan's legal community for thorough, strategically sound representation. Modern case management tools allow our team to organize complex evidence and stay ahead of the timeline that Manhattan courts demand.

The Charges Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Defend in Manhattan

Marwaha Law Group has handled hundreds of criminal matters spanning state court dockets and federal grand jury proceedings. Manhattan presents a unique challenge: a single incident near Penn Station or in the Financial District can draw the attention of local precinct detectives, the Manhattan DA's office, the US Attorney's Southern District office, or all three simultaneously. We bring the same intensity to every case on that spectrum — whether it starts with a ticket or a federal indictment — because every charge carries consequences that reach far outside the courtroom. Our practice covers a wide range of criminal matters, including:


  • Assault and violent crimes
  • DWI and DUI charges
  • Drug crimes and possession
  • Weapons and gun possession charges
  • Sex crimes
  • Murder and homicide
  • Federal computer and internet fraud
  • Cyber crime and identity theft
  • Insurance fraud


Not every charge fits neatly into a list. If your situation involves something not covered above, reach out regardless — our criminal defense lawyers handle the full range of New York criminal law for individuals facing accusations across Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs and counties.

Private Criminal Defense Lawyer vs. Public Defender: Why the Difference Matters

Public defenders working in Manhattan's Criminal Court at 100 Centre Street are, in many cases, genuinely skilled lawyers. The problem is not ability — it is capacity. The volume of cases moving through Manhattan's court system means that even a talented public defender may have only minutes to spend on your file before your next court date. There is little time to investigate independently, consult with you at length, or build a defense around the specific details of your arrest. For someone whose job, housing, professional license, or immigration status hangs in the balance, that lack of time can be just as dangerous as any charge on the complaint.


Choosing a private criminal defense lawyer means your Manhattan case gets the depth of focus it actually requires. At Marwaha Law Group, we have the capacity to investigate independently, prepare for trial when the facts support it, and develop a defense strategy built around your specific circumstances and goals — not a one-size-fits-all script. We work closely with every client and treat the outcome of your case as something that matters personally, because in a city where a criminal record follows you from a Bronx job interview to a Brooklyn apartment application, it absolutely does.

Who Needs a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manhattan — and Why Acting Early Matters

The clients who tend to have the most options are the ones who call before giving statements to police investigators, NYPD detectives, or federal agents operating out of Manhattan's federal buildings. If you were arrested anywhere in Manhattan — from Washington Heights to the Financial District — received a desk appearance ticket, or have reason to believe you are being investigated, contacting a defense lawyer now is not overreacting. Early involvement allows us to protect you from self-incrimination, begin preserving evidence before it disappears, and engage with the case before the prosecution's narrative hardens into something harder to challenge.


A case resolved in a Manhattan courtroom does not stay inside those walls. A criminal conviction — or even an arrest record — can shut doors that have nothing to do with the legal system: job offers rescinded in Midtown offices, professional license reviews triggered, lease applications denied by landlords in any of Manhattan's competitive rental markets, and immigration consequences that can be severe and permanent for non-citizens. Skilled representation is about more than the verdict or the plea — it is about protecting your ability to keep living the life you have built, long after the case itself is behind you.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Manhattan?

Criminal defense in Manhattan is not a service with a standard price tag, and any lawyer who quotes you a flat fee before understanding your case is not giving you an honest picture. The cost depends on the nature and severity of the charge — a misdemeanor desk appearance ticket handled at arraignment is a very different matter from a felony indictment that may go to trial before a Manhattan jury. Relevant factors include the complexity of the evidence, what independent investigation is needed, the number of court appearances, whether suppression hearings are warranted, and whether the case reaches trial. The attorney's experience and familiarity with Manhattan's courts and prosecutors also plays a real role in what a defense is ultimately worth.


At Marwaha Law Group, we believe everyone accused of a crime in Manhattan deserves a real defense — not just the people who can write a large check without hesitation. We structure our fees to remain accessible, offer payment plans for clients who need them, and provide a free, confidential initial consultation so you can have a clear conversation about your case and its likely costs before committing to anything. The most straightforward way to understand what your defense may involve is to talk to us directly — call (516) 988-8866 and we will give you honest answers about where things stand.

What to Do the Moment You're Arrested or Investigated in Manhattan

What you do during the first hours after an arrest in Manhattan can affect the entire case. Keep these steps in mind:

  • Invoke your right to remain silent immediately. Tell the officer clearly: "I want to speak to my lawyer before answering any questions." Then stop speaking — this applies whether you are being held at a Manhattan precinct or transported to central booking at Rikers Island intake.
  • Do not dismiss a desk appearance ticket. A DAT issued anywhere in Manhattan is a mandatory court notice — ignoring it can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest and a far worse situation than the original charge.
  • Hold onto everything. Keep all paperwork, property receipts, or tickets provided by police, and write a private timeline of everything you remember — for your attorney's eyes only.
  • Call a criminal defense lawyer immediately. The earlier counsel is involved in your Manhattan case, the more room there is to shape the outcome before it narrows.

Our Manhattan criminal defense lawyers are available around the clock for situations like this. If you are dealing with an arrest, DAT, or investigation in Manhattan right now, call (516) 988-8866.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should I contact a criminal defense lawyer after an arrest?

    The honest answer is as soon as humanly possible — ideally before you answer a single question from police or investigators. Anything you say can be used to build the case against you, and well-meaning attempts to "explain your side" frequently do more harm than good. A criminal defense lawyer who is involved early can advise you on your rights, communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, begin preserving favorable evidence, and start shaping the defense before the prosecution's narrative sets in. If you have been arrested, handed a desk appearance ticket, or even just contacted by detectives or federal agents, that is your signal to call. Marwaha Law Group is available 24/7 precisely because these situations rarely wait for convenient hours.

  • Can a criminal defense lawyer get my charges reduced or dismissed?

    Every case is different, so no responsible attorney can promise a specific outcome — but a skilled criminal defense lawyer has many avenues to pursue a better result. Depending on the facts, those avenues can include challenging how evidence was obtained, exposing procedural errors that may invalidate the charges, identifying gaps in the prosecution's proof, surfacing exculpatory evidence, and negotiating from a position of strength. Because our founding attorney is a former prosecutor, we understand how the other side evaluates and pressures cases, which helps us spot weaknesses and push for dismissals or reductions where they are achievable. The most reliable way to understand what is realistically possible in your situation is a confidential consultation in which we review the specifics.

  • Do I really need a criminal defense lawyer for a misdemeanor or desk appearance ticket?

    Yes — and underestimating a "minor" charge is one of the most common mistakes people make. A misdemeanor conviction still creates a criminal record that can surface in background checks for employment, housing, and licensing for years, and a desk appearance ticket carries a mandatory court appearance that cannot simply be ignored. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can often resolve these matters in ways that protect your record and minimize disruption to your life, outcomes that are far harder to reach once you have already appeared unrepresented. Marwaha Law Group brings the same diligence to misdemeanors and DATs as to serious felonies, because we know how much a so-called small case can affect your future.

  • What areas of New York does Marwaha Law Group serve?

    Our criminal defense lawyers represent clients throughout the State of New York, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and the Bronx, as well as Long Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Westchester, and the surrounding areas. Our office is located at 1539 Franklin Ave., Ste 201, in Mineola, New York, which keeps us close to courts across the region and ready to respond quickly when clients need us. Because we are available around the clock, our reach is not limited to business hours — if you are facing charges anywhere in our service area, we can begin helping right away. Call (516) 988-8866 to confirm we can assist with your specific court and charge.

  • What happens during my free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer?


    Your free consultation is a confidential, no-pressure conversation designed to give you clarity. We will listen carefully to what happened, review any paperwork or charges you have, and explain the realistic options and likely consequences in plain language so you can make informed decisions. You will leave the consultation understanding the road ahead and what working together would involve, including how fees and payment plans can be structured for your circumstances — all before making any commitment. There is no obligation, and there is no benefit to waiting; the earlier we talk, the more we can do. To schedule yours, call (516) 988-8866 at any time, day or night.


Speak With a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manhattan Today


Your freedom, your record, and your future are worth defending with everything we have. If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in Manhattan, do not wait for the situation to get more complicated. Contact Marwaha Law Group, PLLC for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer who treats your case like it belongs to family.


Call (516) 988-8866 now — available 24/7.

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Testimonials


- Michael


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There is no words to describe Mr.Nipun ! His professionalism and his attentiveness for his clients is incredible! I hired him 2 years ago to resolve an issue, and hired him again this week for another problem and he was there the whole time throughout the process. He is a trustworthy Lawyer, Made me feel comfortable and explained everything in detail. He is one of the best lawyers I’ve met in New York! Highly Recommended.

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How We Defend You

When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, you need a defense team that knows New York's courts and refuses to back down. At Marwaha Law Group, we bring aggressive advocacy and personal attention to every case we take, no matter the charge. Below are the areas where we fight hardest for our clients — and wherever your case falls, we're available 24/7 to start building your defense.


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Federal Internet Fraud

We defend clients facing federal computer and internet fraud charges, building aggressive strategies to challenge the government's evidence and protect your freedom.

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Sex Crimes

We provide discreet, tenacious representation for those accused of sex crimes, fighting to protect your reputation and your rights at every stage.

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Assault Lawyer

From misdemeanor altercations to felony charges, we defend assault cases with a thorough investigation and a defense tailored to the facts.

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DWI Lawyers

Our DWI attorneys scrutinize every traffic stop, breathalyzer reading, and procedural error to challenge the charges against you and keep you on the road.

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Weapons Possession

We defend New Yorkers facing weapons possession charges under the state's strict gun laws, challenging unlawful searches and aggressive prosecution.

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Insurance Fraud

We represent individuals and businesses accused of insurance fraud, dismantling the prosecution's case and protecting you from serious financial and criminal penalties.

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Drug Crimes

From simple possession to trafficking allegations, we fight drug charges by challenging the evidence, the search, and the case the prosecution thinks it has.

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Cyber Crimes

We defend clients against an evolving range of cyber crime charges, bringing both legal experience and technical understanding to your defense.

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Murder

Facing the most serious charge in the system demands the most serious defense, and we leave no stone unturned to protect your life and liberty.

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Gun Crimes

We defend the full range of gun-related charges in New York, where penalties are severe and an experienced advocate makes all the difference.

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Identity Theft

We represent those accused of identity theft, working to expose weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence and shield you from lasting consequences.

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Your Case Is Our Top Priority


Your freedom and your rights are important. Never settle for less when it comes to protecting yourself.


Our New York criminal defense attorneys offer aggressive defense solutions for a wide variety of issues and are committed to providing the high quality professional services that our clients’ cases demand. Our NY criminal law firm is known for our aggressive approach to trial and our compassionate assistance to those who are facing serious legal issues. We are always honest and open with our clients and their legal options and never make false promises. Our reputation, however, speaks for itself.

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