Criminal Defense Lawyer in Staten Island, NY
Charged with a crime in Staten Island? Talk to a former prosecutor before you say anything else.
A criminal charge in Staten Island can feel especially personal, where reputations travel quickly from St. George to Tottenville and one arrest can affect your family, work, and future. Whether police contacted you after an incident near the Staten Island Ferry, issued a desk appearance ticket, or took you into custody, the criminal defense lawyer you call can shape what happens next. At Marwaha Law Group, PLLC, our New York criminal defense lawyers defend people facing state and federal charges across Staten Island, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, and surrounding counties. Founding attorney Nipun Marwaha is a former prosecutor who understands how the government builds criminal cases and now uses that insight to protect people accused of crimes. If you are under investigation, already arraigned, or unsure what comes next, every hour matters.
What You Get When You Hire Our New York Criminal Defense Lawyers
A criminal defense lawyer should do more than appear at your court date. For a Staten Island case, strong defense work starts with the details: why police stopped you, what officers wrote down, whether evidence was collected properly, and whether prosecutors can actually prove the charge. When you retain Marwaha Law Group, our team manages your case from the first call through trial if needed, looking for errors, missing proof, and pressure points that may help your defense.
From there, our representation typically includes:
✔ A confidential case assessment that explains your charges, options, and possible consequences in plain English.
✔ A thorough independent investigation into the events before, during, and after your arrest.
✔ Representation at every stage — arraignment, hearings, motions, negotiations, and trial.
✔ 24/7 availability for emergencies, because arrests on Staten Island do not wait for business hours.
✔ Fast communication, with calls and emails returned within hours, not days.
✔ Trial-ready preparation, including focus groups and mock trials that test our strategy before we ever step in front of a jury.
The goal is to protect your rights, challenge the case against you, and pursue the best result the facts allow.
A Former Prosecutor's Perspective, Now Working for Your Defense
In Staten Island criminal cases, the groundwork is often laid long before trial. Prosecutors may begin shaping their theory as soon as police reports, witness statements, and evidence come in. For nearly a decade, Nipun Marwaha has built his defense practice around what he learned as a prosecutor — how charges are selected, how evidence is used to create leverage, and where cases can start to fall apart. He left that side after seeing an office more focused on convictions than truth, and he founded Marwaha Law Group to fight for the accused.
That background gives our criminal defense lawyers a genuine strategic edge. In a Staten Island matter, we can often anticipate how prosecutors may present the facts, identify weaknesses in their proof, and push for dismissals, reduced charges, or favorable resolutions where another attorney might simply recommend a plea. Recognized by Avvo as a top criminal attorney in NYC with a 9.3 "Superb" rating, and named a Super Lawyers Rising Star multiple years running, Nipun combines courtroom judgment with modern case-management technology to prepare carefully from day one.
The Charges Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Defend in
Staten Island
Our firm has handled hundreds of cases involving both state and federal criminal allegations. Staten Island cases may begin with a desk appearance ticket, a local NYPD arrest, or an investigation that grows more serious over time, and we bring the same diligence to every matter. Our practice areas include:
✔ 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
If your charge is not listed here, contact us anyway — our criminal defense lawyers regularly handle matters across the full spectrum of New York criminal law for clients in Staten Island and beyond.
Private Criminal Defense Lawyer vs. Public Defender: Why the Difference Matters
Public defenders do important work, and many are capable advocates, but the system often gives them too many cases and too little time. In Staten Island, where a criminal accusation can affect your standing in a close-knit community, limited access to your attorney and limited investigation can be especially stressful. When your freedom, job, license, immigration status, and reputation are at risk, your defense should not feel rushed.
Choosing a private criminal defense lawyer gives your Staten Island case focused attention. At Marwaha Law Group, we take the time to review the evidence, investigate independently, prepare motions, negotiate carefully, and go to trial when that is the right path. We do not treat your case like another file on a crowded calendar. We treat clients like family and build defenses around the facts that matter most.
Who Needs a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Staten Island — and Why Acting Early Matters
The sooner a criminal defense lawyer gets involved, the more room there may be to protect you. If you were arrested in Staten Island, received a desk appearance ticket, heard that detectives or federal agents are asking questions, or believe you are under investigation, speak with counsel before trying to explain yourself. Early legal help can preserve evidence, prevent damaging statements, and give your attorney a chance to influence the case before the prosecution’s position hardens.
The consequences can reach far beyond a courthouse appearance. A criminal record can follow you into job applications, housing decisions, professional licensing, immigration matters, and background checks for years. By working to keep charges off your record or resolve them as favorably as possible, the right defense helps protect the opportunities you will need after the case ends. Skilled representation is about more than surviving the immediate crisis — it is about defending the future waiting on the other side.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Staten Island?
There is no single cost for a criminal defense lawyer in Staten Island because every case requires different work. A desk appearance ticket or misdemeanor is different from a felony, violent charge, or federal indictment. Fees can depend on the evidence, the investigation required, witness issues, the number of court appearances, motion practice, and whether the case resolves early or proceeds toward trial. Attorney experience also matters because early strategy can affect the direction of the entire case.
At Marwaha Law Group, we believe strong defense should be within reach. We keep fees reasonable, offer payment plans, and begin with a free, confidential consultation so you can understand your Staten Island case before making a commitment. The most accurate way to discuss cost is to speak with us directly about your facts and charges — call (516) 988-8866 for a straightforward conversation about your options.
What to Do the Moment You're Arrested or Investigated in Staten Island
What you do right after an arrest in Staten Island can affect the entire case. Keep these steps in mind:
✔ Invoke your right to remain silent. Say clearly, "I want to speak to my lawyer before answering any questions," and then stop talking.
✔ Do not ignore a desk appearance ticket. A DAT is an official arrest notification that requires a mandatory court arraignment — missing it can make the situation worse.
✔ Preserve everything. Keep any paperwork, tickets, or property-clerk invoices the police gave you, and write down a timeline of events for your attorney’s eyes only.
✔ Call a criminal defense lawyer right away. Early involvement gives your defense more options.
Our New York criminal defense lawyers are available around the clock for arrests, DATs, and investigations. If you are facing a criminal matter in Staten Island, 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 Staten Island 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 New York, 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
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.
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.
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.
Sex Crimes
We provide discreet, tenacious representation for those accused of sex crimes, fighting to protect your reputation and your rights at every stage.
Assault Lawyer
From misdemeanor altercations to felony charges, we defend assault cases with a thorough investigation and a defense tailored to the facts.
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.
Weapons Possession
We defend New Yorkers facing weapons possession charges under the state's strict gun laws, challenging unlawful searches and aggressive prosecution.
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.
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.
Cyber Crimes
We defend clients against an evolving range of cyber crime charges, bringing both legal experience and technical understanding to your defense.
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.
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.
Identity Theft
We represent those accused of identity theft, working to expose weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence and shield you from lasting consequences.
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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