Does my teen need a criminal defense attorney if they are ticketed while driving on a junior license?

Yes. A criminal defense attorney can advocate for their best interests as the penalties can be significant.

Can my teen be ticketed for driving unsupervised after 9:00 p.m. on a junior license?

Yes. New York State has strict laws for junior license drivers. They cannot drive unsupervised between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.

Can my teen be ticketed if driving unsupervised after 9:00 p.m. (or before 5:00 a.m.) on a junior license to or from their school’s awards ceremony, sporting or club event, prom, or graduation?

Yes, they can. The only school function for which they can drive unsupervised during this time period is a class that is required and for which they earn credit. @lawyergeorge Can I Drive Home After Prom On A Junior License? #juniorlicense #criminallaw #albany #law ♬ POPSTAR (Instrumental) – DJB

What are the penalties for traffic violations as a junior licensed driver?

<div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-20 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column" style="--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-flex-grow:0;--awb-flex-shrink:0;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-flex-grow-medium:;--awb-flex-shrink-medium:;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-flex-grow-small:;--awb-flex-shrink-small:;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;"> Your junior license can be: suspended for 60 days if you are convicted of one serious traffic violation or two other violations that were committed revoked for 60 days if you are convicted of one serious traffic violation or two other violations within the first six months after your license was restored Note: A serious traffic violation carries three or more points on your driving record. What constitutes a serious traffic violation? *DMV regulations have undergone a rework where the following tickets may have increased points associated with their convictions. Speeding (MPH over posted limit) 3 – 11 points Reckless driving (Misdemeaner) 5 points Failure to stop for a school bus 5 points Improper use of a cell phone and texting 5 points Railroad crossing violation 5 points Failure to yield right-of-way 3 points Disobeying a traffic control device 3 points Leaving the scene of a property damage incident 3 points Improper passing or changing lanes unsafely 3 points Driving left of center in the wrong direction 3 points Child safety restraint violation 3 points

What are the penalties for using a cell phone or texting as a junior driver if found guilty?

The first conviction for using a cell phone or texting will result in a suspension of your driver’s license for 120 days. A second conviction within six months of the restoration of your license will result in a revocation of one year or more.

Can I drive unsupervised throughout New York State with a junior license?

No. You can drive unsupervised only within the region in which you received your junior license.

Are there different license restrictions for driving with a junior license or permit in New York City (all five boroughs) or Long Island?

Yes, there are! New York City https://dmv.ny.gov/younger-driver/new-york-city-five-boroughs-junior-license-restriction-0 Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties) https://dmv.ny.gov/younger-driver/long-island-nassau-suffolk-junior-driver-license-restrictions

What types of defenses are available to me if I am charged with a crime?

<div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-72 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column" style="--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-flex-grow:0;--awb-flex-shrink:0;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-flex-grow-medium:;--awb-flex-shrink-medium:;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-flex-grow-small:;--awb-flex-shrink-small:;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;"> To learn more about understanding what type of criminal defense maybe available to you, click here .

What does beyond a reasonable doubt mean?

Proof beyond a reasonable doubt means a jury is firmly convinced of the accused’s guilt and that there is no practical or realistic explanation for any element of the crime other than it was committed by the person charged with the crime. It is the highest form of proof in the law.

Can I raise the defense of mistaken identity?

A mistaken identity defense is used when a witness incorrectly states that a person was involved in a crime, when they were not. This defense is often utilized when there is eyewitness testimony and the defendant did not commit the crime. The New York Court of Appeals, our highest court, in 2017, recognized the unique problems that exist with eyewitness identification between races. As such, any time identification is an issue in a criminal case and the witness and the person charged are different races, you have the right to request the jury be charged about the problems with such identifications.

How do I raise an alibi defense?

A person charged with a crime can use an alibi defense if they can establish that they were someplace else when the crime was committed. Typically, this defense is put forth by witnesses by the defense. However, when an alibi defense is used, the burden of proof remains with the prosecutor to establish all elements of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. A jury is not allowed to convict solely because they disbelieve the alibi, they are still required to believe the People’s case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Can a criminal defense lawyer argue that a defendant was framed?

Yes. Criminal defense lawyers will often defend a case on the basis that their client was framed or set up. With this type of defense, a criminal defense lawyer will try to establish someone else committed a crime and that their client is wrongly accused.

What is an agency defense?

An Agency defense is a rarely used defense in drug cases. The agency defense protects an individual who is working or acting for a buyer of drugs only. An agent of the buyer involved in a drug transaction is purchasing or acquiring drugs for somebody else. This defense cannot be used if you have any involvement with the sale of drugs. To have a successful agency defense, you cannot have received any benefit (other than a token of appreciation) for your participation in the purchase.

What is a duress defense?

Duress is an affirmative defense raised when you were engaged in illegal conduct because you were forced or coerced to do so by use/threatened use of unlawful physical force upon you (or a third party), which force or threatened force a person of reasonable firmness in your situation would have been unable to resist.

What is an affirmative defense?

If a defendant utilizes an affirmative defense, then the defendant has the obligation and burden to prove the affirmative defense by a preponderance of the evidence. If an affirmative defense is offered, the prosecution still has the burden to prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. In the context of a jury trial, the jury or judge (non-jury trial) must first determine if the People have proven their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If they have not, then the case ends, and the jury or judge must issue a not guilty verdict. If a jury believes that the prosecution proved their case beyond a reasonable doubt, then if a defendant has raised an affirmative defense, the jury must consider and determine if the defendant has proved the affirmative defense by a preponderance of the evidence.

What is preponderance of the evidence?

A Preponderance of the evidence means more likely than not. In mathematical terms it is 51% or just over half.

Can I raise the defense of entrapment?

An entrapment defense is used when you have engaged in prohibited conduct because you were induced or encouraged to do so by a public servant or a confidential informant working for the police who was seeking to obtain evidence against you for a criminal prosecution. To raise the defense your criminal defense attorney must show that the methods utilized by the police or the confidential informant caused you to do something you would not have otherwise done. For an entrapment defense to be successful, you need to establish that you were induced or encouraged to commit a crime that you were not predisposed to commit.

What is renunciation of a crime?

Renunciation of a crime occurs when you stop participating in the crime before it begins and/or attempt to stop other participants from committing a crime. Typically, this defense is used in conspiracy charges. The renunciation must be a complete withdrawal from the crime. Renunciation is an affirmative defense.

How old must a defendant be to raise the defense of infancy?

In general, under New York law you cannot be charged with a crime unless you are 18 years old. However, there are many exceptions to this rule. For very serious charges such as murder, robbery or sexually motivated offenses, someone can be charged between the ages of 13-15. In addition, a 17-year-old can be charged with a felony or misdemeanor (so long as there is at least one felony charge), and Vehicle and Traffic Law misdemeanors. For more information regarding age dependent charges see our web page regarding juvenile delinquency.

What is the defense of justification as an emergency measure?

Conduct which would ordinarily be considered a crime is justified and not criminal if the conduct is necessary as an emergency measure to avoid an imminent and significant injury. Essentially this defense is utilized when someone is protecting themselves or someone else from a violent act. The person using this defense cannot have contributed to creating the situation to use this defense or have been the initial aggressor. The prosecution has the burden of disproving this defense beyond a reasonable doubt.

When is self-defense by use of physical force allowed?

Self-Defense by use of physical force is allowed when a person reasonably believes that the use of force is necessary to protect themselves or others from the imminent use of force by someone else. In order for self-defense to be successful, the defendant will need to establish that they believed the use of force was necessary to protect themselves or others from physical danger AND that a reasonable person in the defendants position would have acted in a similar way. The rationale behind this defense is that someone does not have to wait until they are attacked or injured before they can fight back. You cannot be the initial person causing the violent act to claim self-defense. A defendant does not need to prove that they were justified in using self-defense. The prosecution is required to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant was not justified in using self-defense.

Who is the initial aggressor?

The initial aggressor is the person who first attacks or threatens to use physical force first. The initial aggressor does not have to be the one who caused the first contact.

When is use of deadly physical force allowed?

A person can use deadly physical force when they reasonably believe it necessary to defend themselves or others from the use or imminent use of deadly physical force on themselves or others. Deadly physical force means physical force which can cause death or serious physical injury. To use deadly physical force, a person must reasonably believe that someone was using or about to use deadly physical force against them or others, AND that the use of deadly physical force was necessary to defend them or others, AND a reasonable person in the defendants situation, knowing what the defendant knew, would have had the same belief that deadly physical force was necessary. This defense is not available if the defendant was the initial aggressor.

What is serious physical injury?

Serious physical injury means impairment of a person’s physical condition which creates a substantial risk of death, or which causes death or serious and protracted disfigurement, protracted impairment of health or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily organ.

Can you use deadly physical force if you can retreat safely?

In New York, you have the obligation to retreat and not use deadly physical force if you can do so completely and safely. However, there are exceptions to this rule including you do not need to retreat if you are in your own home and you were not the initial aggressor, are a police officer acting within the scope of your duties, or you believe that someone is committing or attempting to the crimes of kidnapping, forcible rape, forcible criminal sex act, robbery, burglary, or arson.

What is the insanity or mental disease or defect defense to criminal charges?

The insanity or Mental Disease or Defect defense is raised when a person charged with a crime lacked criminal responsibility at the time of the crime because they lacked substantial capacity to know or appreciate either: The nature or consequences of the conduct; or That the conduct was wrong. Mental disease or defect is an affirmative defense and can be established by expert medical (psychiatric/psychological) testimony, prior mental health related hospitalizations, medical records, and/or the nature, circumstances, and facts of the crime. This is different than being mentally fit to proceed in the case against you. This defense cares about your mental state at the time of the crime, not at the time of the charges, proceedings, or trial.

What happens if I am found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect?

If you are found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect, your case is not over. Instead, a new set of proceedings will be held to determine your current mental health condition, whether you are a danger to yourself or the community, and whether you should be committed to a mental health facility. If you are committed to a mental health facility, your mental health status will be addressed in regular intervals, but you could be held for longer than the maximum criminal sentence unless your mental health condition improves.

Can intoxication be used as a defense?

Intoxication is not a defense to a crime. However, evidence of intoxication by drugs or alcohol can potentially eliminate an element of a charged crime. In raising this issue, you must show that you could not form the mental state required to commit the crime. To be successful, you need to establish the significant impact of the drugs or alcohol. The level of intoxication is greater than simply being drunk or under the influence or drugs. In most cases, intoxication does not eliminate a criminal act, but may be used to reduce the potential criminal exposure by changing an intentional act to a reckless one.

What is the extreme emotional disturbance (eed) defense to criminal charges?

Extreme Emotional Disturbance (EED) is a New York-specific defense in Murder cases only. To be clear if you are found to have committed a murder under an EED, you would be found not guilty of Murder, but guilty of Manslaughter . EED is a very different defense than claiming insanity or mental disease or defect. First, you must have suffered from such an extreme emotional disturbance, that you suffered a profound loss of self-control. Whatever the emotion, whether its sadness, anger, fear, or any other, it must be very intense. Second, there must be a reasonable explanation that you suffered this extreme emotion. The reasonableness is viewed from your own viewpoint and situation, not that of another person. Finally, you must commit the murder while under the influence of that extreme emotion. Often, this defense is compared with the example of walking in on your partner in bed with another person and acting immediately. In such a circumstance, even if a police officer were standing right next to you, you very well would have acted the same way. Like mental disease or defect, while an expert witness is not mandatory it is often necessary to support this defense. If you were in a minor car accident and were so angry that you went and purposefully killed the other driver, you may very well have suffered from an extreme emotion, but most jurors would be unlikely to say such extreme emotion was reasonable because of an accident. If you planned some or all the murder it is less likely you acted under the influence of an extreme emotion. Also, if there was a time frame when you “cooled off” it is possible that the emotion lessened or ended and you instead made the conscious, intentional choice to act as you did.

Do I need a criminal defense attorney?

In New York State, if you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony, you are required to have an attorney present with you at all stages of your case after you are arrested. If you are charged with a non-criminal violation, such as disorderly conduct or harassment, or a non-criminal traffic offense, you will not be required to have an attorney. However, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney to represent you is recommended as your lawyer will have the knowledge to determine if any of your legal rights were violated and how to best proceed with your case by way of a resolution or trial.

If I am guilty, should I just plead guilty without a criminal lawyer?

No. It is usually not in your best interest to plead guilty even if you committed the crime you are charged with. An experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a plea to a lesser charge which could eliminate your criminal exposure entirely, or lessen potential penalties, fees, and/or surcharges.

Will you be the only criminal defense attorney working on my case?

At LaMarche Safranko Law, we pride ourselves on our teamwork approach. Every case gets assigned to one of our partners and one of the associate attorneys so you will always have two points of attorney contact. We hold weekly firm meetings to discuss and address cases so that in the case of an emergency ANY of our attorneys or the paralegal assigned to your case will be able to help you. Your lead attorney will always have primary responsibility for your case and will be your main point of contact. If the attorney you are working with is unable to attend a court appearance with you, you will be contacted and advised as to which attorney from our office will attend your court appearance. In most cases, your primary attorney will appear with you.

How often should I hear from the criminal attorney handling my case?

There is no set formula for how often you will hear from your attorney. However, the key to a successful attorney client relationship is communication. Whenever there is an important occurrence in your case you will be contacted or notified. This will range from calls to discuss the discovery in your case, the results of working with a private investigator, plea bargain offers, or just a simple check in. Importantly, if you have any questions about your case, you should contact your lawyer.

How can I get the best outcome in my criminal case?

<div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-73 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column" style="--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-flex-grow:0;--awb-flex-shrink:0;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-flex-grow-medium:;--awb-flex-shrink-medium:;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-flex-grow-small:;--awb-flex-shrink-small:;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;"> When you’re charged with a crime in New York, one of the most important questions you’ll have is: “How can I get the best possible outcome in my case?” While every case is unique, the steps you take early on, from hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney to building a strong mitigation package, can make a significant difference in the result. Click here to learn about improving your outcome through mitigation, character reference letters, and drug or alcohol treatment programs.

What should I bring to my initial meeting with my criminal lawyer?

You should bring all documents that you have regarding your arrest or the investigation including copies of any charges or subpoenas, appearance tickets, documents regarding any items seized, names/addresses of any witnesses, and any other information you deem important for your case. At your initial meeting, your lawyer will begin to formalize and strategize regarding your case and the defenses that are available.

How long will my criminal case take?

<div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-74 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column" style="--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-flex-grow:0;--awb-flex-shrink:0;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:0px;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:0px;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-flex-grow-medium:;--awb-flex-shrink-medium:;--awb-spacing-right-medium:0px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:0px;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-flex-grow-small:;--awb-flex-shrink-small:;--awb-spacing-right-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:0px;"> How long a criminal case takes will vary based upon the nature of the charges, the number of people charged, where you are charged, the complexity of the case and the amount of discovery involved. For a breakdown of your criminal case and an overview of the criminal process, please see the Criminal Defense Timeline.

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?

This answer depends on many factors, including the seriousness of the charge(s), the significance of the investigation, whether the case will proceed to a trial or be resolved by way of a plea bargain, the amount of time devoted to your case, , the location of the court, whether written motions are submitted to the court, and whether hearings are needed. Every criminal case is different. Your criminal lawyer should take the time to explain all your options and the issues relevant to your case. For more information about fees pertaining to criminal defense matters, please see our criminal defense fees blog.

Should I talk to the police officers or other law enforcement when they call?

In general, it is best not to speak to the police or law enforcement without an attorney present. You and your attorney can always decide whether to speak to the police or other investigators. When you speak to law enforcement, your statements could potentially incriminate you and be used against you in your criminal case.

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Minor Charged with a Juvenile Offense?

Juvenile Offenses Defense Lawyers in New York | Protecting Teens and Young Adults

When a child or teenager is arrested or under investigation, it can be one of the most frightening moments a family ever faces. At LaMarche Safranko Law, we understand how overwhelming these situations are and how urgently parents want to protect their child’s future. Our juvenile offenses defense attorneys represent minors and young adults across New York, from Albany to Plattsburgh, who are facing criminal accusations, juvenile delinquency proceedings, or investigations that could impact their education, employment, and long-term opportunities

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Criminal Defense Attorneys Who Handle Juvenile Offenses in New York

If your child or family member is nineteen (19) years old or younger and has been charged with a juvenile offense, the consequences can be significant. Young people often do not fully understand their rights, the potential penalties, or how an arrest record can follow them into adulthood. Whenever possible, families should act quickly to contact a lawyer who handles juvenile and young-adult cases. Early intervention can protect the minor from making incriminating statements, accepting unfair consequences, or damaging their future. Our criminal defense team carefully investigates your case, evaluates the evidence, and builds a strategic defense aimed at securing the best possible outcome.

With decades of juvenile offenses criminal defense experience, our attorneys are skilled in protecting the rights of minors and young adults. We know how to advocate for reduced charges, diversion programs, sealed records, and outcomes focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Our juvenile defense team works with families to minimize the long-term impact of an arrest and to preserve educational, employment, and extracurricular opportunities.

FAQs About Juvenile Offenses

My child or loved one is under 19 years old, can they be charged as an adult?admin2020-07-17T15:49:42+00:00

My child or loved one is under 19 years old, can they be charged as an adult?

Yes. Children under age 19 have three separate and distinct categories they can be placed under, depending on the circumstances: Adolescent Offender, Juvenile Offender, and Juvenile Delinquent. They may sound the same but are handled very differently. Also, there is an additional circumstance that may apply called a “Youthful Offender”.

Can my child or loved one be considered a youthful offender?admin2020-07-17T15:09:43+00:00

Can my child or loved one be considered a youthful offender?

A youthful offender adjudication is available for anyone between the ages of 14 and 19 who has committed certain criminal offenses.

A person is sentenced as a youthful offender in criminal court only after a resolution of the criminal case by plea or a conviction after trial. A person who receives a “youthful offender” sentence receives the benefit of a sealed record and no criminal conviction but may still have to complete a sentence which may include jail, prison, and/or probation or parole.

Who qualifies as an adolescent offender?admin2020-07-17T15:09:00+00:00

Who qualifies as an adolescent offender?

Adolescent Offenders are 16 or 17 years old who are charged with a felony. These cases may be handled in criminal court or Family Court. An adolescent offender will start in criminal court and be transferred to Family Court for resolution or trial. In Family Court, the Adolescent Offender label is changed to Juvenile Delinquent, which is much more favorable to the child.

Who qualifies as a juvenile offender?admin2020-07-17T15:08:28+00:00

Who qualifies as a juvenile offender?

Juvenile Offenders are 13, 14, or 15 years old and charged with a serious or violent felony. As with Adolescent Offenders, the case starts in criminal court but can be transferred to Family Court where they are treated like Juvenile Delinquents.

Who qualifies as a juvenile delinquent?admin2020-07-17T15:07:48+00:00

Who qualifies as a juvenile delinquent?

Juvenile Delinquents are over the age of 7, but less than 18, and do something that would otherwise be considered criminal if done by someone older. If the case remains in family court, the penalties a Juvenile Offender faces are less than an Adult Offender.

Juvenile Delinquents can be any child between the ages of 8 and 17 (“over 7 and under 18”).

Children between the ages of 8 and 12 will receive this designation regardless of the allegations. However, children older than age 12 may receive this designation or the designation of a Juvenile Offender. Children over 16 may receive this designation or the designation of Adolescent Offender.

Is it better for my child or loved one to be charged as an adolescent offender, juvenile offender, or juvenile delinquent?admin2020-07-17T15:06:09+00:00

Is it better for my child or loved one to be charged as an adolescent offender, juvenile offender, or juvenile delinquent?

Ultimately, being treated as a Juvenile Delinquent is BETTER than a Juvenile Offender, which is BETTER than an Adolescent Offender. This is because the potential penalties grow progressively harsher as the child gets older. However, any of these designations are vastly better than being charged as an adult in a criminal court. It is always better for a case to be handled in Family Court if possible.

What will happen if my child is charged with a crime or offense and is required to go to family court?admin2020-07-17T15:05:35+00:00

What will happen if my child is charged with a crime or offense and is required to go to family court?

All children have rights in court, including the presumption of innocence and the right to go to a trial. A prosecutor will handle the prosecution of the case against the child and a judge will hear the evidence against the child. The child has a right to a lawyer, a right to testify and a right to call witnesses. It is critical that a youth is given an opportunity to build a relationship with a lawyer who will do everything possible to ensure the child understands as best they can and protects the child like their own. A criminal or family court lawyer who handles these types of cases can conduct the trial or negotiate a settlement on behalf of the child.

What kind of punishment does my child or loved one face if they are charged with an offense?admin2020-07-17T15:04:45+00:00

What kind of punishment does my child or loved one face if they are charged with an offense?

Punishments in the juvenile realm are vast, but can include:

Orders of Protection
Payments of Restitution
Letters of Apology
Community Service
Probation or Community Supervision
Removal and Placement in a juvenile facility
Jail or Prison, but only if the juvenile is treated as an adult, in criminal court.

How is it determined if a teenager will receive youthful offender status?admin2019-12-01T16:18:17+00:00

How is it determined if a teenager will receive youthful offender status?

When a person is convicted of a crime, a Judge is responsible for determining the sentence that person will receive. This is appropriately called the “sentencing” phase of a criminal case. What some people do not realize, however, is that sentences can vary wildly based upon the discretion of the particular judge assigned to oversee your case and how that Judge feels about the facts and circumstances of your case. A criminal defense lawyer will argue for a youthful offender sentence at the time of the sentencing.

What will help my child receive a youthful offender sentence?admin2019-11-01T16:21:08+00:00

What will help my child receive a youthful offender sentence?

Your child will have a better chance at receiving a YO sentence if your criminal defense lawyer can argue that there is evidence of rehabilitation and demonstration of living a productive life including participation in educational and vocational programs, alcohol and substance abuse treatment and/or mental health treatment, and family and community involvement. If your child lacks a criminal record or played a minor role in the offense, that too will be important.

Do I need a lawyer if my teen is ticketed for possessing a fake ID or driver’s license?admin2019-06-11T15:02:20+00:00

Do I need a lawyer if my teen is ticketed for possessing a fake ID or driver’s license?

Yes. Possessing and/or using a fake ID or driver’s license is considered a Class D felony. A criminal attorney will be needed.

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If I Have A Fake ID Could I Lose My Driving Privileges? #fakeid #criminallaw #law #albanyny

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What are the charges for possessing a fake ID or driver’s license?admin2025-12-03T17:01:50+00:00

What are the charges for possessing a fake ID or driver’s license?

Regardless of your age, possessing a fake ID or driver’s license is considered a serious crime. You can be charged with:

a Class D felony
Violating N.Y. Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 509-6 which prohibits any other person to use or possess a license that is not legally their own
Fraud
Identity theft

To learn more about the consequences of possessing a fake ID or driver’s license click here.

If I am convicted of possessing a fake ID or driver’s license, what will the consequences be?admin2025-12-03T17:00:27+00:00

If I am convicted of possessing a fake ID or driver’s license, what will the consequences be?

A conviction can carry significant fines, court costs and other penalties, including probation, time in jail, community service, and/or having your legal license suspended. For more information click here.

Law Firm Testimonials

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Vicki Testimonial Transcript
Well, I met George in 2014. My son was arrested for a criminal offense, and George—he has this ability, it’s just who he is. He’s genuinely empathetic and he’s very compassionate and he has the ability to just make you feel safe. You know? I just always felt I was in great hands and my son was in good hands and that we would have a good outcome of our situation and we always have. And he’s brilliant. He’s a brilliant lawyer. He’s very skilled and very creative. He has excellent rapport with all the judges and DAs and officials, and he’s always found a rehabilitative outcome for my son which I genuinely appreciate.

Laurie Testimonial Transcript
George was referred to me by my estate attorney. They go way back and it was a great referral, I don’t think I could have done any better, it was a very good match for me. Something that was really really instrumental in the whole thing was George keeping us up-to-date on what was going on and very much included. I was invited to be at all the depositions if I wanted to be and he gave me all the written depositions to read through, so I was always up-to-date on what was going on and I felt like a part of the process. I would definitely recommend George to other people. In fact, about 2 weeks ago I did. A friend of mine was in a pedestrian car accident, she was the pedestrian and is in pretty rough shape, and he was the first person I thought of so I actually asked him if it would be in his purview and he said yes. And I know that she’s very happy with him so far.

Jules Testimonial Transcript
What brought me to the firm was a personal incident where Andrew was recommended to me very highly by a family friend who’s also an attorney, and Andrew represented me to great satisfaction in that case. What impressed me the most about Andrew was his direct straightforward approach, and he has this incredible way of setting you at ease and yet telling you the good and the bad of a situation. I felt that he was very much a straight shooter and lived up to the reputation that preceded him. I would recommend them and Andrew Safranko to anybody in the world. They’re just that class of a group of people.

Chuck Testimonial Transcript
Well, I came to LaMarche Safranko Law because I knew Andy was here and he’s helped me in the past and I just feel so comfortable coming to him because you know you’re going to get the best outcome that you can get in a criminal law field. He’s done such a fabulous job for me and I’ve seen what he does for me, so I’m sure he’ll do the same—put out the same effort and energy and zeal it takes to win their case like he has mine. I would feel very comfortable recommending him.

“No one likes to be in a bad situation, but if you need a lawyer George is your man. Not only does he point you in the right direction he offers good advice for your future. As much as we bring him business he does not encourage that next time anticipation….

A client from Albany, NY

“Dear Mr. Safranko,

Thank You so much for answering my question, and so expediently!

The dedication, respect, and consideration with which you treat your clients, current and past, is remarkable. It is why I reached out to you when searching in my time of need, and why I would highly recommend…

A client from Albany, NY

“Dear George, Andy and Staff,

Thank you all for your kindness and all your help in getting back to my wellbeing and life. I could not have done it without you all. Everything is going so well again. I recommend you highly. Thanks Again!”

A client from Troy, NY

“Dear Andrew and George,

I cannot thank you enough for your hard work, diligence, and selfless manner that you put towards my legal difficulties in Colonie. From the first moment I met you, you helped reassure me that things were going to turn out in a more favorable manner than I originally thought. Clearly, the final result of my court case displays the quality of time and work that you put into this….

A client from Colonie, NY

“Dear Andy,

Thank you so much for everything you have done for our son over the last three years. This has been a very challenging time for our family and the knowledge that our son has an attorney as capable and amazing as you are has given us peace of mind!

Parents of a client from Cropseyville, NY

“I wanted to express my deepest appreciation to Mr. Andrew Safranko for the exceptional job he did in regards to my legal representation. Mr. Safranko displayed the utmost in professionalism and discretion during the entire court process, and took the time to explain each and every step….

A client from Schenectady, NY

“The arrest of my husband in 2008 was an extremely difficult and emotional time for our family. The arrest turned our lives upside down. It was sudden and unexpected and had tragic emotional as well as financial consequences. I had no idea what to do under the circumstances….

A client from Upstate New York

“My family and I cannot thank George and his staff enough for all of the support and guidance they have given us over the past six months. Anyone who has ever suffered a personal injury knows how difficult they are to overcome, but I’m glad we had such an intelligent and hardworking attorney on our side so I could focus on my recovery rather than on the details of the case….

A personal injury client from Waterford, NY

“The staff at LaMarche Safranko Law took care of whatever I needed, it was just fabulous. It was top shelf, if I called, I got George. If he was in a meeting, they left him a message. He called me right back after the meeting. Everybody was very courteous and very nice there. If I left a voicemail, everybody got back to me quickly. The level of service was very, very good and I would Highly recommend them.”

A personal injury client from Cohoes, NY

“I cannot thank George E. LaMarche lll and his team for the excellent legal work they provided for my son, and in extension, our entire family. His experience, knowledge of the law, networking ability and communication is second to none. In our case, our son was wrongly accused by a small town police officer and charged with 5 tickets…

A client from Altamont, NY

“I am an attorney who found himself in the middle of a serious, personal legal matter that compromised not only my personal life but my professional life as well. I immediately contacted Andrew (Andy) Safranko, Esq. Andy worked tirelessly and extremely hard to bring my legal situation to a very favorable resolution. In so doing, Andy not only saved certain aspects of my personal and professional life…

Anonymous Attorney from Albany, NY

“I can honestly say that the best decision I’ve ever made was retaining George LaMarche as my attorney. I was in a situation where everything wasat risk; my career, livelihood, and the ability to provide for my family. In desperation, I contacted over a dozen attorneys. The majority of the lawyers I spoke with promised results without seeing paperwork or knowing valuable facts….

A client from Albany, NY

“Throughout the attorney client relationship regarding my personal injury lawsuit, George and his staff continually exhibited tremendous amounts of legal knowledge, skill, and a vast amount of expert resources that ultimately resulted in a final judgment in my favor. George was there every step of the way to explain where we stood and what to expect next and there was never a need to question his professional judgment…

A client from Troy, NY

“I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your excellent representation on my recent matter. I have worked with lawyers, and in law firms much of my professional life, but I have never encountered the rare mix of skill, integrity and humanity in one individual—you….

A client from Rensselaer, NY