Fraud Defense Lawyer New York County, NY

A Manhattan executive was reviewing quarterly accounts when two NYPD detectives arrived at her office door. They asked about client payments that had been routed through a series of accounts — and suddenly she was facing allegations of fraudulent activity. She had never been arrested before. The accusations felt baseless, but the threat of serious criminal charges was real. If you are under investigation for fraud in New York County, having an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the local courts and the New York fraud statutes can make a critical difference. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings extensive combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel to fraud defense representation. Results may vary. To discuss your situation, reach our New York location at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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Strategy Options in a New York County Fraud Case

The moment you are aware of an investigation, you should protect your interests. Early intervention often allows a defense team to communicate with prosecutors before formal charges are filed, potentially steering the matter away from an indictment. New York County fraud cases are investigated by the NYPD, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, and occasionally by federal agencies if the alleged scheme crosses state lines.

Attorneys with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Evaluate the prosecution’s documentary and testimonial evidence. Fraud cases hinge on financial records, electronic communications, and witness accounts. We examine whether the charges rest on misinterpreted business dealings or incomplete information. In many instances, a thorough review can expose weaknesses that lead to a reduction or dismissal. When a negotiated resolution is the client’s goal, we work to obtain a fair outcome. When trial is necessary, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel rely on extensive courtroom experience to present a well-prepared defense. For representation tailored to the facts of your case, contact our firm at (888) 437-7747.

What To Expect in the Criminal Process

If you are arrested, expect to be taken to a Manhattan precinct for booking, fingerprinting, and photographing. Arraignment usually occurs in New York County Criminal Court within 24 hours. Under New York’s 2020 bail reform, most non-violent felony and misdemeanor defendants are released on their own recognizance; cash bail is reserved for certain violent felony charges and designated qualifying offenses. The judge will also determine whether you qualify for assigned counsel.

Felony fraud cases proceed to the New York County Supreme Court for grand jury presentation. The district attorney presents evidence to the grand jury, which then votes on an indictment. After indictment, the case moves through motion practice, discovery, and potential plea negotiations. A trial may be scheduled many months later. The CPL § 30.30 speedy-trial clock runs during this period. Throughout the process, your attorney should explain each step and the strategic choices available.

Penalty Overview — Fraud Under New York Law

The consequences of a fraud conviction in New York vary dramatically. Under the New York Penal Law, fraud offenses are often charged as larceny, false pretenses, forgery, identity theft, or scheme to defraud. A misdemeanor conviction carries up to one year of incarceration, while a felony can result in a state prison sentence of more than one year, depending on the classification. Collateral effects may include loss of professional licenses, employment disqualification, and immigration consequences for non-citizens. The sentencing court also weighs the amount of the alleged loss, the defendant’s criminal history, and any restitution paid. Because each case is unique, an experienced defense attorney can explain the potential exposure after reviewing the specific allegations.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Together with the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, he concentrates on criminal defense and brings extensive combined legal experience to fraud representation in New York County. Our New York location serves clients throughout the state, including Manhattan. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fraud defense in New York County?

A fraud defense attorney represents individuals accused of financial crimes such as larceny by false pretenses, identity theft, forgery, or schemes to defraud. The attorney challenges the prosecution’s evidence, negotiates with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, and, when necessary, takes the case to trial. Fraud cases often involve complex financial documents and witness credibility assessments. Because New York County has a high volume of business-related prosecutions, local familiarity with the courts at 60 Centre Street can be valuable. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Do I need a lawyer if I am being investigated but not yet charged?

Yes, you should consult an attorney as soon as you suspect you are under investigation. Early legal representation can sometimes persuade prosecutors not to file charges or to agree to a reduced charge before an arrest is made. Your attorney can also handle communication with investigators and help protect your rights during the pre-charge phase. In New York County, investigations by the NYPD or the Manhattan DA’s Office can escalate quickly. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

How does bail work for fraud cases in New York County?

Under New York’s 2020 bail reform, most fraud defendants are released on their own recognizance without cash bail. Bail may still be set for certain violent felony charges or if the alleged fraud involves large sums and a significant risk of flight. At arraignment in New York County Criminal Court, the judge will consider the nature of the offense, your ties to the community, and your criminal history. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What is an ACD, and can it apply to a fraud case in Manhattan?

An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a New York disposition where charges are postponed for a set period — typically six to twelve months — and then automatically dismissed if the defendant has no new arrests. ACD is generally available for many first-offense cases, including certain low-level fraud charges, such as petit larceny or misdemeanor falsifying business records. The decision to offer an ACD is at the prosecutor’s discretion. Having an attorney who can present compelling mitigation can improve the chance of an ACD. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Can fraud charges be reduced in New York County?

Yes, plea negotiations frequently result in reduced charges. A felony fraud charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor, or a specific statute may be substituted for a less serious offense. The prosecution considers the strength of the evidence, the amount of loss, and the defendant’s background. Our attorneys work to identify mitigating factors and evidentiary weaknesses that support a favorable resolution. Results may vary.

What are the most common fraud charges prosecuted in New York County?

Common fraud charges include larceny by false pretenses, scheme to defraud, identity theft, forgery, and falsifying business records. Manhattan’s role as a financial center means that the DA’s Office frequently prosecutes cases involving investment fraud, embezzlement, and public-benefit fraud. These cases often involve thousands of pages of financial records that require careful analysis. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

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Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary. New York County Supreme Court, 60 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007. Engagement with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Requires a signed engagement agreement. Copyright © 1997-2026 Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.