Facing Queens Witness Tampering Charges? Don’t Go Down Without a Fight

Facing Queens Witness Tampering Charges? Don’t Go Down Without a Fight

If you are facing witness tampering charges in Queens, you need to know your rights and options. Tampering with a witness is a serious crime in New York State, and the consequences can be severe. But with the right legal representation and a strong defense strategy, you can fight back and protect your future.

What is Witness Tampering?

Witness tampering is a distinct and separate crime in New York State, although it is often confused with witness intimidation. If you attempt to or actually induce a person not to show up to a proceeding, such as a court hearing, or to testify before a Grand Jury, you have likely violated the New York Penal Law as it relates to witness tampering[1].

The punishment for tampering with a witness runs the gamut and can be as “little” as up to a year in jail[1]. However, witness tampering can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony offense, depending on the specifics of the case and the criminal record of the defendant[2].

Potential Defenses for Witness Tampering Charges

When accused of intimidating or tampering with witnesses, there are numerous plausible defenses. Your criminal defense attorney can contend that when dealing with a witness, you did not have the intent to persuade the witness to change his or her story or to abstain from testifying or giving their testimony[5].

It will be necessary for the prosecution to show that there was intent to change a witness’ behavior in order for the elements of witness tampering to be satisfied[5].

Another potential defense is to challenge the prosecution’s narrative from every angle. This can involve questioning the evidence collected, proving that there was no intent to harm, and identifying alternate suspects[3].

Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are facing witness tampering charges in Queens, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights and options, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific case[1].

An adept criminal lawyer knows how to negotiate too. They can angle for reduced charges in exchange for a guilty plea if the evidence is stacked against you. No guarantees, but sometimes it’s about damage control. Other times, the case gets dismissed fully. Depends on the circumstances[3].

Remember to exercise your rights while also preparing to identify the best strategy to overcome an investigation, arrest, indictment or trial involving any degree of witness tampering[1].

Conclusion

Witness tampering is a serious crime in New York State, and the consequences can be severe. But with the right legal representation and a strong defense strategy, you can fight back and protect your future. Consult with a New York criminal defense attorney to analyze the particular set of facts in your case and ascertain the potential defenses to those allegations[1].

Don’t go down without a fight. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney today to learn more about your rights and options[3].

Sources

• Tampering With a Witness | New York Crime Defense Lawyers Saland Law
• Are You Facing State or Federal Witness Tampering Charges? Get Help from a Federal Defense Attorney Today – Chambers Law Firm
• Experienced Nationwide Law Firm: Spodek Law Group on New York Penal Law 145.20 Criminal Tampering First Degree | Get Expert Legal Help Now
• Witness Tampering – FindLaw
• Witness Tampering | Coxwell & Associates
• Paul Manafort ordered to jail after witness-tampering charges – Washington Post