Rochester Felony Defense Lawyers

Felony Defense Representation Backed by Over a Century of Rochester Legal Practice

A felony charge in New York exposes you to state prison time, substantial fines, and consequences that follow you long after any sentence is served. At Osborn Reed & Burke, LLP, we’ve been representing clients in the Greater Rochester Area since 1916, more than 110 years of continuous practice in this community. Our criminal defense attorneys operate within a full-service litigation firm, bringing broad courtroom capabilities to defendants who need experienced, strategic counsel from the moment charges are filed.

If you or a family member is facing a felony charge in Rochester, the stakes are too high to wait. Call our office today at (585) 542-1778 or use our online contact form to reach a felony defense attorney in Rochester residents have turned to for generations.

Bail Hearings & Pre-Trial Release in Monroe County

The bail stage is one of the first critical decision points after a felony arrest. New York bail law has changed significantly in recent years, and which offenses qualify for bail, as well as the conditions a judge may impose, depends heavily on the charge, the defendant’s criminal history, and the quality of advocacy at the hearing. A judge may release a defendant on conditions, set monetary bail, or in some circumstances hold the defendant without bail.

Securing pre-trial release quickly is a priority for us because detention disrupts employment, family life, and the defendant’s ability to participate in building a defense. Our attorneys attend bail hearings, present supporting documentation, and argue for reasonable release conditions, drawing on the defendant’s community ties, employment history, and family responsibilities to put the strongest possible picture before the court.

Can a Felony Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor?

Plea negotiations are a recognized and frequently used avenue in New York felony cases, and the strength of the defense team’s preparation directly affects what the prosecution is willing to offer. Our attorneys evaluate every detail, including prior criminal history and evidentiary strengths and weaknesses, to assess whether a charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor or whether the facts support pursuing a different course at trial.

Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to work toward reduced jail time, fines, and long-term consequences. This requires careful timing, thorough case review, and clear communication with the prosecution. Not every case is best resolved through negotiation; some defendants are better served by going to trial, and determining which path fits your situation requires rigorous analysis of the evidence. We identify mitigating factors and present arguments aimed at fair and just resolutions, with an approach tailored to each client’s individual circumstances and goals.

Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction in New York

The penalties listed in a sentencing order are only part of what a felony conviction costs. A conviction reaches into multiple areas of life at once, and understanding the full scope of what’s at stake is part of why early, experienced legal representation matters.

A felony conviction in New York carries consequences that extend well beyond any sentence served:

• In New York, a felony conviction results in loss of the right to vote while incarcerated. Under a 2021 state law, voting rights are restored upon release from prison, including for those on parole or post-release supervision, but the conviction still disrupts that right during incarceration.
• A felony conviction carries loss of the right to own or possess a firearm under both state and federal law, though limited pathways exist to seek restoration of firearm rights for certain non-violent offenses.
• Certain professional licenses can be suspended or revoked, closing off career paths that took years to build.
• For non-citizens, the immigration consequences can be severe, including deportation, regardless of how long a person has lived in the United States.
• A felony conviction becomes a permanent part of the public criminal record, affecting employment applications, housing approvals, and professional opportunities for years after the sentence is complete.

Why Defendants in Rochester Choose Osborn Reed & Burke, LLP for Felony Defense

Osborn Reed & Burke, LLP has operated in the Rochester legal community since 1916. That history means our felony defense attorneys bring over a century of litigation experience to cases that demand familiarity with local procedure, the Monroe County courts, and the prosecution’s approach. As a full-service firm, we bring broad legal capabilities that support complex felony defense matters, from pre-trial motions through verdict.

We’re prepared for trial if that’s what your case requires. Courtroom readiness isn’t an afterthought; it’s part of how we approach every matter from the start. We also prioritize efficiency and responsiveness, because defendants and their families need answers quickly and shouldn’t have to chase their attorney for updates. Our firm serves clients throughout the Greater Rochester Area, including Brighton and surrounding communities.

Act Early to Protect Your Rights

Early legal intervention gives our attorneys more time to gather evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and protect your constitutional rights before critical early-stage decisions are made. The further a case progresses without defense counsel involved, the fewer options may remain.

If you or a loved one is facing felony charges in the Greater Rochester Area, contact our criminal defense team today.

Call (585) 542-1778 today. You can also request a consultation by using our online contact form.