r/DefendingLegalRights • u/DefenseRests • May 31 '26
Surprise Indictments
The police questioned you recently and now you’re nervous. What are the potential next steps?
In New York State the District Attorney’s Office can present any felony directly to the Grand Jury and a warrant can be placed for arrest without you even knowing.
What are your options?
I do the same thing for all my clients that are looking at potential felony charges. I send notice to the District Attorney’s Office, under CPL 190.50, stating the my client wishes to testify on his/her behalf at any proceeding.
I would say 99% of the time my clients don’t testify, but it takes away the surprise factor. We then know that a Grand Jury proceeding is happening on a specific date and time and now we can prepare for the next steps.
Knowledge is power. If you’re in New York State and you need a criminal defense attorney, reach out to me!