Read the News 12 Article Read the Daily News Article Attorney Troy A. Smith represented Curtis Batchelor on a brutal cold case murder in which Mr. Batchelor was charged with First Degree Murder and First Degree Rape. In May 1999, Elsa Grullon was raped and murdered in her Bronx apartment. At autopsy, DNA swabs were…
Read MoreWhen facing larceny or robbery charges, there are quite a few similarities. It can be difficult to understand the consequences that comes with a conviction. The distinguishing element that separates the two crimes is the added use of force of any kind. Passive stealing without threats, violence, or injuring someone not involved in the crime,…
Read MoreThis is a very common question that most people have. Do I really need an attorney if this is only my first DUI offense? The quick answer to that question is, it depends. Some will say that because DUI offenses are common and straightforward, you don’t necessarily need an attorney to handle your case. However,…
Read MoreEnduring an arrest for any reason is stressful. However, having an arrest record for a DUI is particularly stressful. One reason is that it usually accounts for a person’s first arrest. The implications, consequences, and outcome of a DUI arrest and can case weigh heavy on a person’s mind. Being stressed is only going to…
Read MoreIf you invoke the Fifth Amendment, you are basically employing the Miranda Rights. Miranda Rights enable those taken into custody by police for questioning to remain silent. But why would you want to invoke these rights under the Fifth Amendment? For starters, speaking to police may somehow incriminate you in a crime, even if you…
Read MoreThe marijuana laws in New York are changing this year. Governor Andrew Cuomo, previously opposed to marijuana legalization, has shifted his stance. In essence, New York would be joining the growing list of recreational weed states. However, don’t get too excited yet. The state laws are not allowing free and clear use of the drug,…
Read MoreDo you need a New York Grand Larceny lawyer to help you through your legal troubles? Grand Larceny consists of non-violent white-collar crimes with varying degrees of severity. If you were involved in the theft of property such as money, a debit/credit card, or a vehicle, the degree of Grand Larceny dictates your punishment. The…
Read MoreSome of the biggest criminal trials of 2018 will go down in history as landmark cases. From murder to sexual assault and collusion, criminals filled local and national news headlines. With a variety of criminal proceedings occurring over the year, 2018 was anything but boring. For more information on some of the biggest criminal trials…
Read MoreOn December 18, 2018, a Bronx jury returned a verdict of NOT GUILTY fully acquitting my client, JAKWON RAMOS, of charges of Murder in the Second Degree, Manslaughter in the First Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree. Mr. Ramos was arrested on October 5, 2015, for the shooting death of…
Read MoreDouble jeopardy is a legal term popularized in society by a movie with the same name. Although many people know the phrase, very few understand its meaning. The double jeopardy law pertains to the court’s ability to punish someone multiple times for a single crime. This especially important if the court acquits the defendant of…
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