Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in New York City, NY (2026) — Reviewed and Ranked

Facing criminal charges in New York City is one of the most serious situations a person can encounter. Whether you are dealing with a DWI, a felony charge, a federal indictment, or a white-collar investigation, the outcome depends heavily on who is in your corner. The best criminal defense attorneys in New York City combine deep trial experience, knowledge of NYC’s complex court system, and the prosecutorial insight that comes from having worked inside the DA’s office. Here are the top criminal defense attorneys in New York City for 2026, selected based on peer recognition, case results, and client outcomes.

Disclaimer: This list is compiled from publicly available information and does not constitute a legal recommendation. Always conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

Table of Contents

• How We Selected These Attorneys
• 1. Levitt & Kaizer
• 2. The Law Offices of Jeffrey Lichtman
• 3. The Law Office of Matthew Galluzzo, PLLC
• 4. The Law Offices of Julie Rendelman, LLC
• 5. Addabbo & Greenberg
• How to Choose a Criminal Defense Attorney in NYC
• Frequently Asked Questions

How We Selected These Attorneys

We evaluated New York City criminal defense attorneys based on Avvo scores (10.0 “Superb” rating), Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent peer reviews, Super Lawyers selection, notable high-profile case results, prior prosecutorial experience, federal court admission, and the breadth of charges they are equipped to handle. Only attorneys who demonstrate genuine trial capability and peer-verified excellence made this list.

This is part of our ongoing Best Attorneys series. Also see our Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Los Angeles and Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Miami guides.

#1 — Levitt & Kaizer

Levitt & Kaizer has been defending clients in New York’s most complex criminal matters since 1977. Partner Richard W. Levitt has been selected to Super Lawyers continuously from 2012 through 2024, and partner Nicholas Kaizer holds a 10.0/10 Avvo rating and AV Preeminent designation from Martindale-Hubbell — the highest peer-reviewed rating in the legal profession. Kaizer has been featured as a panelist at the U.S. Sentencing Commission Annual Conference, reflecting his standing in the federal criminal defense community.

The firm specialises in federal and state criminal defense, white-collar crime (securities fraud, money laundering, tax evasion, RICO), political corruption, violent crimes, and post-conviction appeals including habeas corpus petitions for wrongful convictions. Richard Levitt is also the author of the Second Circuit Criminal Law Sourcebook, demonstrating his depth of expertise in the federal circuit that covers New York.

#2 — The Law Offices of Jeffrey Lichtman

Jeffrey Lichtman is one of the most recognized names in federal criminal defense in the United States. He served as lead defense attorney in the landmark trial of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán in the Eastern District of New York — one of the most high-profile federal criminal trials in American history. He also secured a dismissal of murder conspiracy charges against John “Junior” Gotti, along with acquittals and hung juries across multiple Gotti trials.

Lichtman holds a Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, a 10.0/10 Avvo score, and has been listed in Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America. He handles federal and state criminal defense, RICO, organized crime, narcotics trafficking, white-collar crime, sex crimes, and criminal appeals. He is also listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers and was recognized as “Criminal Lawyer of the Year” by the Institute of Jewish Humanities.

#3 — The Law Office of Matthew Galluzzo, PLLC

Matthew Galluzzo is a former NYC District Attorney’s Office prosecutor — specifically from the sex crimes unit — who now uses that insider prosecutorial knowledge to defend clients facing serious criminal charges. His experience on both sides of the courtroom gives him a unique perspective on how cases are built and how they can be dismantled.

Galluzzo holds a 10.0/10 Avvo rating, has been selected to Super Lawyers multiple years, and was recognized as one of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100. He was also awarded the Chevalier (Knight) distinction in the French National Order of Merit by the French government for his work representing French nationals and serving as Avocat-Conseil to the French Consulate in New York. He handles homicide, sex crimes, white-collar crime, DUI/DWI, federal charges, and cases with immigration consequences.

#4 — The Law Offices of Julie Rendelman, LLC

Julie Rendelman brings 30+ years of legal experience to criminal defense, including a distinguished career as a prosecutor and Deputy Bureau Chief of the Kings County District Attorney’s Homicide Bureau. Her prosecutorial background gives her a comprehensive understanding of exactly how the government builds its cases — knowledge she now uses exclusively to defend clients.

She holds a 10.0/10 Avvo rating, is selected to Super Lawyers NYC, and is recognized by America’s Top 100 Attorneys. Rendelman handles general criminal defense from misdemeanors to serious felonies, domestic violence, drug crimes, white-collar fraud, weapons offenses, DWI, juvenile defense, and federal court representation.

#5 — Addabbo & Greenberg

Founded in 1983, Addabbo & Greenberg is a Queens institution with over 40 years of criminal defense experience. Both founding partners — Dominic “Buddy” Addabbo and Todd Greenberg — are former Assistant District Attorneys, giving the firm a combined 80+ years of legal experience and deep insight into prosecution strategy. They have handled more than 50 homicide cases in state and federal courts — one of the highest trial volumes of any criminal defense firm in NYC.

The firm handles DWI, violent crimes, drug distribution, gun charges (including airport arrests at JFK and LaGuardia), sex crimes, enterprise corruption, hate crimes, and appeals. They are Super Lawyers listees and are recognized in Marquis Who’s Who in America.

How to Choose a Criminal Defense Attorney in New York City

Hire immediately — before charges are filed: If you are under investigation, received a federal target letter, or have been arrested, contact a criminal defense attorney the moment you are able. Statements made before retaining counsel can permanently damage your case. The moment you invoke your right to an attorney, all questioning must stop.

Look for former prosecutors: Attorneys who spent years in the DA’s office or U.S. Attorney’s Office understand exactly how cases are built, what evidence matters most, and where the weaknesses in a prosecution lie. This insider knowledge is invaluable in NYC’s complex court system.

Confirm federal court admission: If you are facing federal charges in the Southern or Eastern District of New York, confirm your attorney is admitted to practice in federal court and has specific SDNY/EDNY experience. Not all criminal defense attorneys handle federal cases.

Understand immigration consequences: In a city as diverse as New York, the immigration implications of any plea or conviction can be as serious as the criminal penalties themselves. Ensure your attorney understands the intersection of criminal and immigration law before accepting any deal.

Read our guide to law firm digital marketing to understand how criminal defense attorneys build their online presence, and see what makes a great law firm website for client conversion.

Frequently Asked Questions: Criminal Defense Attorneys in NYC

When should I hire a criminal defense attorney in New York City?

Immediately — even before charges are formally filed. If you are under investigation, have been arrested, or received a “target letter” from a federal agency, contact a criminal defense attorney right away. Critically, invoke your right to remain silent immediately and politely say “I am invoking my right to remain silent and would like an attorney.” Statements made before retaining counsel can and will be used against you in court.

What is the difference between a state and a federal criminal charge in NYC?

State charges (assault, drug possession, DWI) are prosecuted by the NYC District Attorney’s Office in borough courts — Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, or Staten Island. Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District (S.D.N.Y.) or Eastern District (E.D.N.Y.) of New York and typically involve more serious crimes: RICO, wire fraud, drug trafficking conspiracies, terrorism, or major financial crimes. Federal penalties are generally harsher and sentencing guidelines are stricter. Confirm your attorney has specific federal court experience if you face federal charges.

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in New York City?

Fees vary widely based on case complexity and attorney experience. Misdemeanors typically cost $1,500–$10,000+. Felonies range from $5,000–$50,000+. Federal cases commonly run $10,000–$75,000+, and complex homicide or major fraud cases can exceed $100,000. Hourly rates typically range from $250–$700+/hr for experienced NYC attorneys. Always get a written fee agreement before retaining any attorney.

What is the statute of limitations for criminal charges in New York?

It depends on the offense type. There is no statute of limitations for Class A felonies like murder and certain sex crimes — they can be prosecuted at any time. Most other felonies carry a 5-year limit. Misdemeanors have a 2-year limit, and petty offenses 1 year. The clock can be “tolled” (paused) if the defendant lives outside New York state or other specific circumstances apply.

What should I do if I’m arrested in New York City?

Stay calm and do not resist arrest. Invoke your right to remain silent immediately and ask for an attorney. Do not consent to any searches. Do not make any statements to police or prosecutors without your attorney present. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as you are allowed to make a call — even a brief statement made voluntarily can be used to build a case against you.

Can a criminal defense attorney get my charges dropped in NYC?

Yes — this is one of the primary goals. Attorneys can file suppression motions challenging the legality of searches and seizures, challenge witness credibility, identify constitutional violations in how evidence was obtained, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissals, and present alternative evidence at trial. Success depends entirely on the facts and evidence specific to your case.

Will a criminal conviction affect my immigration status?

Yes — and this is critically important for non-citizens. Even a misdemeanor plea can trigger deportation, bars to re-entry, or loss of green card status under federal immigration law. NYC’s large immigrant population makes this an especially serious consideration. Always hire a criminal defense attorney who understands the immigration consequences of any plea or conviction before accepting any deal.

Should I take a plea deal or go to trial in New York?

This is one of the most important decisions you will make, guided by your attorney’s honest assessment of the evidence, likely trial outcome, and sentencing exposure. In NYC, the majority of criminal cases resolve via plea bargains. A plea may result in reduced charges and a lighter sentence, but it also means accepting a criminal record and giving up your right to trial. A skilled attorney will provide a realistic evaluation of both paths.

Is Your Criminal Defense Law Firm Website Generating Enquiries?

If you run a criminal defense practice in New York City and your website is not consistently generating qualified client inquiries, we can help. We specialize in law firm website design and local SEO for lawyers that converts visitors into consultations. Book a free discovery call here.

Also see: Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Los Angeles | Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Miami, FL

Also see: Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Boston