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24/7/365 Emergency Hotline: 631-348-1702

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24/7/365 Emergency Hotline: 631-348-1702

If you have been arrested, or in case of an emergency, our attorneys can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 631-348-1702.

How Criminal Rights Have Been Affected by the Coronavirus

The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in most legal proceedings being suspended for its duration, and this is as true for the criminal courts as it is for everything else. Due to the coronavirus, most criminal court proceedings have been suspended, while others are now being conducted remotely through video conferencing and other telecommunications methods. This has had a dramatic impact on how criminal defendants can protect their rights during the pandemic.

The coronavirus is the single greatest health crisis facing America right now, with courts across the country closing to anything except “essential” proceedings. While this includes arraignments and bail hearings for people charged with crimes, it doesn’t include many of the procedural hearings that are an integral part of legally enforcing their rights. As a result, many defendants are now being locked in jail without any chance of moving their case forward until the pandemic has passed, whenever that happens.

There are additional issues as well. Jails and prisons have proved to be breeding grounds for the coronavirus, with the disease spreading rapidly among both the incarcerated and prison staff alike. While some defendants who are considered particularly vulnerable have been permitted to leave early, or have been reassigned to house arrest, in order to protect their health, most others are stuck where they are. For example, nearly 300 inmates and more than 300 corrections officers had become ill at Rikers’ Island alone by early April.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for a criminal offense, you will need legal counsel to help you preserve your rights and work to get the best possible outcome for your matter. A New York criminal defense lawyer, who is experienced in handling criminal cases of all sorts, can advise you of your legal rights and will fight for your best interests in court. If you or your loved one has been arrested, contact the Suffolk County criminal defense attorneys at McGuire, Peláez and Bennett at (631) 348-1702.

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I’ve used these attorneys for 2 traffic tickets and I am very pleased with the outcome. Would highly recommend going to see them for any traffic ticket matters! Would definitely use them again if needed.
I had a great experience resolving a traffic matter. Highly recommended!
These guys were outstanding, did what they said,and the staff couldn't have been nicer and professional. I hope to never need them again, but if I do, I wouldn't even think of going anywhere else !
The representatives from this firm were great. I was referred to use their service from my friend for a similar situation. I met with one of the lawyers, they reviewed my mess and told me they were going to fix it. They handled my case with no issues, I dodged 6 points on my license and I’m good with that. The front desk assistants were great with navigating my calls and were great to speak with. They helped me out with my questions which all led to a great experience. From one referral to the next, they know what they do so let them work for you. Thank you.
Response from the owner: Thank you Kudesie. We are so happy we could help you. Best wishes for the holidays.
Good service.
Response from the owner: Thank you for your positive feedback, OT Estevz! We are glad to hear that you were satisfied with our service.
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