Criminal Law
Felonies
A felony is the most serious charge a person can face and can result in severe, life-altering consequences, from incarceration in a state prison to losing your rights to vote. Examples of felonies include theft crimes, sex crimes, acts of violence and drug sales and possession, among many others. Should you find yourself facing serious charges like these, we can defend your constitutional rights.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors in New York are divided into three classes: Class A misdemeanors, Class B misdemeanors, and Unclassified misdemeanors. Because misdemeanors have less severe penalties than felonies, many make the mistake of not taking these charges seriously. We can help ensure that your case is handled professionally and that your rights are protected during the process.
DWI, DWAI-Drugs
We provide expert criminal defense for DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DWAI-Drugs (Driving While Ability Impaired Drugs) charges. DWIs can range from felonies to misdemeanors to violations. However, the penalties for any level of DWI or DWAI-Drugs conviction can be severe, including jail, loss of driving privileges and heavy monetary fines and penalties.
Traffic
We represent drivers who have been charged with all types of traffic violations. These include reckless driving, speeding, driving without insurance, driving without a license, driving with a suspended license, and other traffic accident cases. Rest assured, we will work hard to resolve your traffic matter effectively and efficiently.
Probation and Parole
At Susman Law, we have the experience and expertise to defend you in the event that you are charged with a probation or parole violation. Whether it’s a new arrest or a technical violation of the terms and conditions of your release, our firm will do everything within the law to protect your rights.
Family Law
Custody
Child custody disputes typically require intervention by the family law court system. This is especially true if there are issues regarding the safety of any of the people involved, such as child or spousal abuse. These laws can often be hard to disentangle from other family law matters. For instance, the calculation of monthly child support payments may depend on the type or manner of child custody arrangement between the parents. We can help guide you through this process.
Attorney for Child
The Attorneys for Children Program is the New York state governmental office responsible for providing the highest quality legal services to children involved in the judicial system.
Ben Susman has been appointed and trained by the New York State Supreme Court to serve in this important capacity.
Juvenile Delinquency (JD) applies to children under age 16
In criminal cases brought against a child younger than age 16 (average age 10-16), that child’s case will be heard in the Family Court, and the child is entitled to legal representation. Parents can retain a private attorney to represent the minor or the court will appoint an attorney. If your child is the subject of a juvenile criminal procedure, their rights need to be protected as much as or even more than if they were an adult.
At Susman Law, we have a deep expertise in these types of cases and can guide the child and family through this difficult process.
Adolescent Offender (AO) / Raise the Age (RTA) applies to 16- and 17-year-olds accused of a felony-level crime
Adolescent Offender (AO) is a new category created by the Raise the Age (RTA) legislation which went into effect in 2019 with the goal of keeping 16- and 17-year-old children out of the criminal justice system. Under this legislation all 16- and 17-year-olds who are charged with qualifying felony-level crimes can litigate his or her case in Family Court. If your child’s charges are such that prevent the removal of the case to the Family Court, his or her case will proceed in the “Youth Part” of the County Court.
Ben Susman is specially trained to represent children that are subject to the Raise the Age legislation. In addition to being well-versed under this law, Ben is trained as both a criminal defense attorney and as an attorney for children in the Family Court. There is nothing more critical than choosing the right attorney when your child’s future is on the line.
Other Specialties
Real Estate
For sellers, we prepare contracts, deeds, transfer documents and closing documents. We explain to sellers the financial figures and communicate with their real estate agent to assist in the sale.
For buyers, we review contracts and make necessary changes to protect their rights. We perform title work, deal with your lender if necessary, attend the closing, review documents with the purchaser and record the deed.
Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Appeals
Most people who go through the process of applying for SSDI or SSI will be denied the first time. Those who take the time to appeal the decision improve their chances of getting their case heard by an administrative law judge (ALJ) and ultimately getting approved for benefits. We, at Susman Law, have the compassion, experience and understanding needed to guide you through this process.
Business Formation
Whether you are just starting your business or you’re reorganizing an existing business, we have the knowledge and insight needed to help you choose the right structure, including:
· Limited liability partnership (LLP)
· Limited liability company (LLC)
· Corporations, such as S corporations and C corporations
· General partnership