New York Desk Appearance Ticket

If you have been issued a Desk Appearance Ticket, you like many may not be clear on what this ticket means. A New York Desk Appearance Ticket Lawyer can tell you that receiving a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) is a serious matter and needs to be taken care of appropriately. It is a common misperception that because you were not arrested, the matter isn’t that serious. It is important to note that a DAT can be issued for either a misdemeanor or felony offense. If convicted these charges can result in serious legal consequences and a mark on your criminal record. If you have received a DAT, or have been arrested for a criminal offense such as Assault, battery, petit larceny or Grand Larceny, it is important to speak with the skilled legal team from Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC for guidance and a free consultation.

DATs are normally issued by police where the defendant has committed a crime and does not have a prior record. They can be issued for violations, misdemeanors and felonies. A misdemeanor is an offense that is punishable by less that one year in jail. Occasionally, a DAT will be issued for a Class D, or Class E felony, though not often. A felony is a criminal offense that is punishable by at least one year in prison or more. The issuance of a Desk Appearance Ticket is at the discretion of the law enforcement. When you are issued a DAT, you are not taken into custody. However you are expected to appear in court at the date and time specified on the ticket. It is extremely important to attend your Arraignment as failing to do so can result in a bench warrant being issued for your arrest.

At your arraignment, you will hear the charges against you and enter your plea. The judge will also determine whether setting bail is appropriate. In determining this, the judge will look at various factors such as the severity of the crime you are charged with, whether you have a prior criminal record, and whether you have housing and employment in the area. If the judge decides that you do not pose a flight risk, he will release you on your own recognizance. If he does decide to set bail and you are unable to pay, you will be held in custody until your next court hearing. While you will not be able to explain, or argue the circumstances of your case, it is very important to have a member of our legal team with you at your arraignment hearing to ensure that your legal interests are protected.

Our legal team can tell you that there are some criminal offenses that are more likely to receive a DAT than others, such as shoplifting (petit larceny), marijuana possession (or other low level drug crime), and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Other offenses that often receive a DAT, include a DWI (driving with a BAC of .08% or higher), a domestic violence offense, and some sex crimes.

Receiving a DAT is a serious legal matter. If convicted you could be facing serious consequences including jail time, fines and probation. Speak with our legal team for sound legal guidance and a free consultation. We have offices to serve you in Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. We also have offices in Suffolk County and Nassau County on Long Island, and Westchester County. Call us today to schedule your consultation at 800.696.9529.