Criminal Defense
​Kevin Kessler represents clients who have been arrested, are the target of a criminal investigation or are a potential subject or witness to a law enforcement or legal agency inquiry.
Mr. Kessler understands the potential ramifications that a criminal charge or conviction can have on a client’s future and understands the need for an aggressive and qualified criminal defense attorney to protect a client’s rights and interests.
Kevin Kessler has extensive legal experience that is invaluable to anyone who has been charged with a state crime.
Criminal Law Basics
What is a Felony?
What is a Misdemeanor?
In New York, a felony is a serious criminal offense punishable by a minimum of one year in state prison, and it is classified into five levels (A, B, C, D, E), with A being the most severe. Penelties vary by class and include potential prison sentences, such as life in prison for Class A felonies and up to 25 years for Class B felonies. Factors like the defendant's criminal history and the specific nature of the crime, such as whether its a violent or drug-related felony, also affect the sentence.
In New York, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less serious than a felony and carries a maximum potential jail sentence of one year. Misdemeanors are classified as Class A, Class B or unclassified, each with varying penalties and offenses. A Class A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 1 year in jail. A Class B misdemeanor is punishable by up to 3 months in jail. Unclassified misdemeanors vary but no more than up to 1 year in jail.