Criminal Defense
New York Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you were arrested and charged with a crime in Manhattan, you don't have to face the justice system alone. You may be worried about what the future holds and what to do next. Hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer is the most essential decision to make. You have rights, and Yifei He can help protect them.
Whether you were arrested for a DUI, drug offense, assault, theft, or possession of firearms and weapons, you have options, and a lawyer will fight for the best outcome for your future. Every decision you make after an arrest is critical in protecting your future—while time is still on your side, contact Yifei He below.
Let's Talk - Contact us for a free consultation at
1-917-338-7678 or by
messaging us online.
At our New York criminal defense law firm, you’re not just another case—we keep our caseload small so you get direct access to Attorney Yifei He when you need it most. With deep knowledge of the New York criminal justice system, we’re ready to fight for you every step of the way. Our approach is simple: don’t back down. No matter the charges, we’ll build a strong, aggressive defense to get your case dismissed or your penalties reduced.
Signs You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, hiring a criminal defense lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make. Even if you believe the charges are minor or that you can explain your side to the police, having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
- You have been arrested or charged with a crime. Even a first-time offense can carry severe penalties. An attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes.
- You are being investigated. If law enforcement contacts you for questioning, do not speak to them without a lawyer—anything you say can be used against you.
- You are a non-U.S. citizen. Criminal charges can impact your immigration status, potentially leading to deportation or denial of future benefits like a green card.
- You are facing felony or misdemeanor charges. A lawyer will fight for reduced charges, dropped cases, or alternative sentencing options.
- You want to avoid jail time or a criminal record. A strong defense can protect your future job prospects, housing opportunities, and reputation.
What Crime Were You Charged With?
Here's how we can help:
Assault & Battery
With years of experience defending assault charges in New York- Yifei He knows that assault cases are overcharged and unfairly prosecuted. In many situations, the "victim" may have initiated the confrontation, yet the person defending themselves ends up facing charges. People are quick to file assault charges over fights, however—in New York, the law requires substantial pain or impairment for a conviction, and many cases don't hold up in court. Self-defense and justification are powerful defenses, that why hiring a lawyer who will act fast and gather evidence is essential.
Domestic Violence Charges
If you were charged with domestic violence, these cases are taken seriously and facing prosecutors without an attorney could lead to life-changing outcomes. We understand that you don't want to lose child custody, or face the aftermath of a felony conviction. A skilled manahttan criminal defense attorney can challenge weak evidence, uncover inconsistencies in witness statements, and negotiate for reduced charges or case dismissal. They will fight to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.
Drug Crimes
Facing drug-related charges without a skilled attorney, can mean anything from jail time to a permanent criminal record, and prosecutors will aggressively pursue convictions. We understand you want to avoid life changing outcomes at all costs. Let us fight for you and negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
Your fight- is our fight. We're here protect your freedom and minimize the long-term impact.
Sex Crimes
Larceny & Theft
We understand you feel overwhelmed, being charged with shoplifting, grand larceny, or fraud is no joke. The good new is, you don’t have to face it alone. Even a minor theft charge can leave a lasting mark on your record, impact future job opportunities, and, if you're a non-citizen, put your immigration status at risk. We take a strategic approach to these cases—challenging weak evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and fighting for reduced charges or outright dismissal whenever possible. My goal is to protect your future and keep this charge from defining you.
Weapons Possession
Did you know that New York has some of the strictest gun laws in the country? A weapons charge can lead to serious penalties, including mandatory prison time for certain firearm offenses. However, being arrested does not automatically mean you are guilty—law enforcement must follow strict legal procedures when handling weapons-related cases. Were your rights violated? Was the search legal? Many weapons charges stem from unlawful searches, improper police stops, or mistaken possession, which could result in evidence being suppressed or the case being dismissed. Attorney Yifei He will aggressively challenge unlawful stops, searches, and seizures to protect your Second Amendment rights and your future.
White Collar Crimes
Manhattan, reflecting its status as a global financial hub has it's fare share of white collar crimes, meaning prosectors are ruthless. If you’re facing charges for fraud, embezzlement, or financial crimes, a lot is at stake—your career, reputation, and even your freedom. White-collar cases are complex, often involving federal investigations, financial audits, and lengthy court battles. I build strategic defenses to challenge the evidence, minimize penalties, and, when possible, prevent criminal liability altogether. The sooner we start working on your defense, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
DUI/DWI
Arrested for driving under the influence? The stakes are high—your license, your job, and your future could all be on the line. New York has strict DUI laws, and prosecutors will push for harsh penalties, including fines, jail time, and license suspension. A knowledgeable defense attorney can examine breathalyzer results, challenge improper police procedures, and fight to reduce or dismiss charges. They will advocate for you every step of the way, ensuring you get the strongest possible defense.
The First Step in Protecting Your Future Starts Here
A criminal charge does not have to define your future. Remember, you have rights and options.
Let's talk—call us at
1-917-338-7678 for a free consultation or begin by
contacting us online.
Commonly Asked Criminal Defense Questions
Yes! Depending on the charge and the outcome of your case, a lawyer may be able to seal or expunge your record so it doesn’t show up on background checks. In New York, certain cases—like dismissed charges or some misdemeanors—may be eligible for sealing after a waiting period. The Law Office of Yifei He, PLLC can review your situation and help clear your record if possible.
It depends. Even if you weren’t convicted, the arrest and charge may still appear on your record. The good news is that in New York, many dismissed cases, dropped charges, and not-guilty verdicts can be sealed, meaning they won’t be visible to employers or the public. Let us help you take the right steps to protect your future.
Missing a court date can result in a bench warrant for your arrest. This means law enforcement can detain you at any time. Contact an attorney immediately if you’ve missed a court date to avoid further legal trouble.
If you’ve been arrested, here’s what you need to know about your rights:
Yes! Even if you plead guilty, an attorney may be able to negotiate a better deal, reduce charges, or argue for a lighter sentence. Never accept a guilty plea without speaking to a lawyer first.