Andre focuses his practice in all areas of criminal defense law.
This includes violations, misdemeanors and felonies involving drug crimes, theft crimes, violent crimes, DWI’s and criminal contempt charges stemming from violations of court Orders of Protection, as well as probation and parole violations.
The criminal investigation process
A police investigation usually takes place after a report of suspected criminal activity. Law enforcement’s first duty is to determine whether a crime has occurred and then whether an arrest is necessary. Generally, evidence is gathered through interviews, search warrants and various surveillance techniques. If the police determine (1) a crime was committed and (2) the identity of a suspect, an arrest made. Andre Sedlak is available 24 hours a day and provides representation for clients during a law enforcement investigation and can assist clients at the time of their arrest.
Plea negotiations
The overwhelming majority of all criminal cases in the United States are settled by plea negotiation rather than by trial. Generally, the terms of a voluntary plea involve a reduction in the level of the offense and/or a reduction in the sentence in exchange for the accused not holding the prosecution to the burden of proving its case. Depending on the circumstances, it may be in a client’s best interest to consider a plea offer rather than risk a criminal trial. In New York State, all pleas offered by the District Attorney are subject to the final approval of the Judge. In order to receive the best possible plea offer, a criminal defense attorney‘s negotiation skills are paramount in this process.
Alternatives to incarceration
Even if a criminal case becomes insurmountable, depending on the charge and the history of the accused, there may be treatment programs that can be used in coordination with a term of probation as an alternative to incarceration and as diversion from incarceration. The Court system recognizes that for some individuals, treating the underlying chemical dependency and/or mental illness reduces the risk to commit new crimes.