Attempt to Commit a Felony Lawyer Orange County — What Are Your Defenses?
An attempt to commit a felony in Orange County is a serious crime prosecuted under NY Penal Law § 110.00, carrying significant penalties. If you are charged with an attempt to commit a felony, you need a lawyer who understands the specific defenses available for incomplete crimes. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is an Attempt to Commit a Felony Under New York Law?
In New York, a person is guilty of an attempt to commit a crime when, with intent to commit a specific crime, they engage in conduct that tends to effect the commission of that crime. This is defined under NY Penal Law § 110.00. For an attempt to commit a felony charge to stand, the prosecution must prove you had the specific intent to commit the underlying felony and took a “substantial step” toward completing it. This is more than mere preparation; it must be an action that strongly corroborates your criminal intent.
Last verified: April 2026 | Orange County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the attempt statute, see NY Penal Law § 110.00 (official New York State Senate). For local court procedures, visit the Orange County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for Attempt Charges in Orange County
Attempt to commit a felony cases in Orange County typically begin in a local town or village court for arraignment before moving to the Orange County Supreme Court for felony proceedings. The prosecution must present their case to a grand jury for indictment. A key local procedural fact is that judges here scrutinize whether the alleged act constitutes a “substantial step” or merely preparation. An experienced attempted felony defense lawyer Orange County can challenge the sufficiency of the evidence at the grand jury stage and at pre-trial hearings.
- Arraignment & Bail Hearing: You will be formally charged and can enter a plea. Your lawyer will argue for favorable bail conditions or release.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The prosecution presents evidence to secure an indictment. Your attorney cannot be present but can advise you on whether to testify.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Hearings: Your lawyer will file motions to dismiss or suppress evidence, challenging whether the state can prove a “substantial step” was taken.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence and motions, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or proceed to trial before a jury.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible, arguing factors like lack of completion and your background.
- Appeal or Post-Conviction Relief: If errors occurred at trial, your attorney can file an appeal to a higher court.
Potential Penalties for Attempt to Commit a Felony
In Orange County, an attempt to commit a felony is generally punished at a level one degree lower than the completed felony, but still carries the possibility of state prison time, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Underlying Felony Class | Attempt Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Post-Release Supervision |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class A Felony | Class B Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $30,000 | Yes |
| Class B Felony | Class C Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $15,000 | Yes |
| Class C Felony | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Possible |
| Class D Felony | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Attempt and Incomplete Crime Charges
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of combined experience to defending serious felony charges, including attempts. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds these cases from the inside. This perspective is invaluable when defending an attempt to commit a felony charge, where the focus is on intent and the line between preparation and action. We apply a detailed, evidence-focused strategy for every client facing an incomplete crime charge.
Case Results
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal cases. Our approach focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent and action at the earliest stages.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
An Attempt to Commit a Felony Lawyer Orange County Near You
If you need an attempt to commit a felony lawyer Orange County, our firm is positioned to help. We represent clients throughout Orange County, including Goshen, Newburgh, Middletown, Monroe, and Warwick. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meet with clients by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an attempt and a completed felony in New York?
The key difference is completion. For an attempt, the prosecution must prove you intended to commit the felony and took a substantial step toward it, but did not finish the crime. The penalties are typically one degree lower than the completed offense.
Can an attempted felony charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. An experienced incomplete crime defense lawyer Orange County can argue that your actions did not constitute a “substantial step,” that you lacked the specific intent, or that evidence was obtained illegally. Successful pre-trial motions can lead to dismissal or reduction to a misdemeanor.
What is a “substantial step” under the law?
It is conduct that strongly corroborates your intent to commit the crime and goes beyond mere preparation. Examples could include traveling to the scene with tools, soliciting someone to participate, or reconnoitering the location. The definition is often contested in court.
Should I speak to the police if I’m under investigation for an attempt charge?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used to establish your intent. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attempted felony defense lawyer Orange County.
What are common defenses to attempt charges?
Common defenses include lack of specific intent, abandonment of the criminal plan, impossibility (if the crime could not have been completed), and police entrapment. Your lawyer will analyze the facts to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing an attempt to commit a felony charge in Orange County, act quickly to protect your rights. Learn more about New York criminal defense. For defense in nearby areas, see our pages for Albany County and Broome County. For other legal needs in Orange County, we also assist with DUI charges and business law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you want to see how a Orange County case fits into the wider process, our page on attempt to commit a felony lawyer Virginia covers it from start to finish.