Ulster County Criminal Defense From Arraignment Through Appeal
A criminal accusation in Ulster County may begin with an arrest, an appearance ticket, a felony complaint or an investigation before charges are filed. The Law Offices of Michael Pollok, PLLC represents clients at each stage, including arraignment, bail proceedings, discovery, suppression motions, hearings, trial, sentencing and appellate review.
Based in Kingston, the firm handles misdemeanor and felony cases throughout Ulster County. Michael Pollok has practiced criminal defense for more than three decades and also has extensive appellate experience, giving the firm a perspective that includes not only the immediate court appearance but also preservation of issues that may become important later.
Criminal Cases In Kingston And Ulster County Justice Courts
Ulster County criminal cases are heard in Kingston City Court, Ulster County Court and numerous Town and Village Justice Courts, including courts serving New Paltz, Saugerties, Woodstock, Esopus, Lloyd, Marlborough, Shawangunk and Wawarsing.
Our attorneys are accustomed to the differing procedures, calendars and practices of these courts and regularly work with the judges and prosecutors assigned to criminal matters. Local knowledge cannot determine a result, but it can help counsel prepare efficiently, recognize procedural differences and give a client realistic guidance about the process.
The Prosecution Still Has To Prove Its Case
Criminal charges are allegations, not convictions. We review the accusatory instruments, police reports, body-camera footage, statements, search and seizure issues, identification evidence, forensic evidence, discovery compliance and the prosecution’s ability to prove every element. When appropriate, we seek suppression, dismissal or reduction of charges; when a case should be tried, we prepare it for trial.
Criminal Defense Matters We Handle
- Felony charges
- Misdemeanor charges
- Drug possession and sale offenses
- Assault and violent felony allegations
- Domestic-violence related charges
- Larceny, theft and property offenses
- Weapons charges
- White-collar and fraud allegations
- Probation and post-conviction matters
- Appeals and post-conviction motions
Courts And Communities We Serve In Ulster County
We represent clients in Ulster County Court in Kingston and in local City, Town and Village Courts throughout the county, including matters arising in or around:
| • City of Kingston | • Olive |
| • Denning | • Plattekill |
| • Esopus | • Rochester |
| • Gardiner | • Rosendale |
| • Hardenburgh | • Saugerties (Town and Village) |
| • Hurley | • Shandaken |
| • Town of Kingston | • Shawangunk |
| • Lloyd | • Town of Ulster |
| • Marbletown | • Wawarsing |
| • Marlborough | • Woodstock |
| • New Paltz (Town and Village) | • Village of Ellenville |
Representation From Arraignment Through Appeal
A criminal case can change direction at several stages. Early investigation may identify evidence worth preserving. Discovery review may reveal suppression issues or weaknesses in the prosecution’s proof. Motion practice can narrow the issues before trial. If a conviction occurs, sentencing advocacy, post-conviction motions and appellate review may still be important. Our firm handles cases with the long view in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are felony cases handled in the county?
Felony cases generally begin in a local criminal court and, if prosecuted by indictment or superior-court information, proceed in County Court. The procedural path depends on the charge and what occurs in the local court.
Can charges be dismissed before trial?
In some cases, yes. Dismissal may be available because of legal insufficiency, suppression issues, discovery violations, speedy-trial problems or other defects. The availability of a dismissal depends on the facts and procedural history.
Should I speak to the police before hiring a lawyer?
A person under investigation should be very cautious about making statements without legal advice. What seems like an explanation can later become evidence. Early representation can help protect important rights.
Speak With An Ulster County Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been charged with a criminal offense in Ulster County, contact the Law Offices of Michael Pollok, PLLC. We can review the charge, explain the potential consequences and discuss the defenses and options available to you. Call 845-406-9349 or send us an inquiry today.