Poughkeepsie, New York

The City of Poughkeepsie is in Dutchess County and has a population of approximately 31,700 people. The name of the city comes from a Native American word meaning “the reed covered lodge by the little water place.” Originally, Poughkeepsie was a village incorporated in 1799; the city was chartered in 1854. Poughkeepsie was the second capital of New York. In 1788, the Ratification Convention for New York State assembled at the courthouse on Market Street. In attendance were Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and George Clinton. They ratified New York as the 11th of the 13 original colonies.

Poughkeepsie is famous for its many colleges, including Vassar, Marist, Dutchess Community College and the CIA (Culinary Institute of America), where some fine chefs often get their training. The Mid Hudson Civic Center hosts concerts, professional wrestling, trade shows and various hockey events.

All that makes Poughkeepsie famous can also lead to injuries and legal problems. Crowded events, busy streets, and lots of businesses can lead to serious injuries and personal injury claims. While Poughkeepsie is considered a safe place to live, it also does see some crime and some arrests. Whether you have been injured and would like to know whether you have a claim or whether you are being accused of a crime, contact The Law Office of Mark A. Siesel for a free consultation. We can help you make sense of your situation and answer your questions.

How Much Can I Receive for a Personal Injury Claim?

The range of compensation in personal injury claims can vary dramatically. Minor injuries may lead to settlements in the thousands or tens of thousands of dollars, while catastrophic injuries can result in costs that are much higher. Keep in mind, as well, that serious and long-term injuries will cost more over time. If you have sustained a permanent spinal cord injury, for example, your personal care will cost more in the future because of inflation and because new technology developed years from now to manage your condition will cost more.

The worth of a personal injury claim in New York is determined by a complex mix of factors, including the severity of your injuries, pain and suffering, medical costs, lost income, and insurance policy limits.

Each case is unique, and it’s essential to consult with a personal injury attorney to get an accurate assessment of the value of your claim. A lawyer will also pursue fair compensation for your injuries, ensuring you don’t accept less than you deserve.

What Can be the Outcome of Criminal Charges?

The outcome of criminal charges in New York can vary widely depending on the nature of the offense, the evidence presented, and the strategies employed by your legal team. The involvement of a criminal defense attorney can be the difference between a harsh sentence and a favorable resolution. Here are some of the possible outcomes of criminal charges:

• Dismissal of charges. One of the best possible outcomes in any criminal case is the dismissal of charges, where the case against you doesn’t proceed. This may be because the state does not believe there is enough evidence or decides not to pursue the case for other reasons.
• Plea bargain. Many criminal cases in New York end in a plea bargain, which is a compromise between the defendant and the prosecution. This could involve pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence or reduced penalties. Plea bargains can be beneficial for both parties because they save time and avoid the unpredictability of a trial. An experienced criminal defense attorney will assess the strength of the case against you and leverage their knowledge of the law to negotiate terms that minimize the consequences of the crime.
• Acquittal.  If your case goes to trial, the jury may find you not guilty, resulting in an acquittal. Criminal defense attorneys are skilled at preparing for trial, challenging the prosecution’s case, and presenting compelling arguments that cast doubt on the defendant’s guilt. Acquittal typically occurs when there is insufficient evidence to convict you beyond a reasonable doubt. It’s important to remember that in a criminal trial, the prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt, and you are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
• Conviction. In some situations, the case may result in a conviction, meaning the defendant is found guilty of the charges. Depending on the severity of the crime and the sentencing guidelines, the outcome could include jail or prison time, probation, fines, or other penalties. For serious felonies, a conviction can result in years or even decades of imprisonment. However, even after a conviction, an attorney may be able to argue for a more lenient sentence or pursue options for early release, such as parole or probation. If there is strong evidence of your innocence, an attorney can also file appeals in your case, even if you have been convicted.

Diversion programs. New York’s Judicial Diversion Program offers options for rehabilitation, such as drug or alcohol treatment, community service, or counseling, instead of traditional jail time. This program and others like it are meant to minimize the jail population in the state and to give first-time offenders or those charged with lower-level crimes a second chance.  A criminal defense attorney can help identify whether you qualify for such programs and assist in the application process. Successfully completing a diversion program may result in charges being dropped or expunged from your record.

The difference between a long jail sentence and an acquittal or diversion program is significant. Being able to avoid long sentences or high fines can positively impact your life, including your reputation, relationships, and earning potential. An experienced attorney can build a strong case and work to reduce the impact of charges on your life. If you have been the victim of police misconduct, a defense attorney with personal injury experience can also help you file a claim.

Contact The Law Office of Mark A. Siesel

The Law Office of Mark A. Siesel specializes in personal injury and criminal law, and we pride ourselves on providing personalized, hands-on attention to each of our clients. From the moment the client enters our White Plains, New York offices, through the conclusion of their case by trial, mediation, arbitration or other resolution, our clients are fully apprised of the status of their cases at all times. We offer a free initial consultation to all clients, and are accessible through our two websites, injurylawny.com and dwilawnewyork.com, three blogs, and by fax, e-mail.

The Law Office of Mark A. Siesel stands out for our commitment to personalized legal services. Unlike many law firms where clients can feel like just another case number, Mark A. Siesel and his team genuinely prioritize the needs of each client. We understand that dealing with legal matters, whether it’s a defense or personal injury case, can be challenging. That’s why we focus on ensuring that clients feel supported every step of the way.

One of the distinguishing features of our firm is our dedication to communication. The Law Office of Mark A. Siesel guarantees that your emails and phone calls will be returned within 24 hours, often on the same day. This responsiveness is crucial in cases where time is often of the essence.

This level of attention and prompt communication is not only rare but also helps our clients feel confident in their legal representation. Quick responses can also contribute to the success of a case, as important details are addressed in a timely manner. For those seeking reliable and compassionate legal support, The Law Office of Mark A. Siesel offers a unique, client-centered approach that can make all the difference in your case.

Contact our office at (914) 428-7386 to schedule an appointment for your free consultation or visit our websites at injurylawny.com or dwilawnewyork.com. Directions to our law office from the Dutchess County Courthouse in Poughkeepsie can be accessed by clicking here.