NYC Criminal Defense Attorneys for State and Federal Cases
We’re a team of seasoned defense lawyers, who know how to fight—and win—when everything is on the line.
Experience. Experience. Tenacity. Results.
We’ve defended clients in cases that made national headlines, and we’ve stood beside countless New Yorkers whose names never appeared in print. Whether it’s a complex federal indictment or a desk appearance ticket in Manhattan Criminal Court, we bring the same intensity, preparation, and precision to every case.
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Why Clients Choose Norman Spencer Law Group
At Norman Spencer Law Group, we believe every client deserves one-on-one attention, clear communication, and a defense built from experience—not guesswork. We’ve spent decades defending clients across New York City and throughout the United States in cases ranging from white collar investigations to felony prosecutions.
Our criminal defense team has over 70 years of combined experience, and we’ve built our reputation on results that speak for themselves. Whether you’re a professional under government investigation or someone facing criminal charges in state or federal court, you’ll get the same thing every client receives from us: competent counseling, aggressive defense, and better results.
We’ve been representing clients since 2006, and our approach hasn’t changed—direct, strategic, and committed to winning.
Proven Results Across Complex Cases
Real cases tell the story.
- We represented a bookkeeper accused of stealing from his employer after he confessed to police. We secured probation—no jail time.
- A physician accused of drug use and sexual abuse walked away with a case dismissed.
- A construction company owner charged with over $1 million in tax and insurance fraud received probation, not prison.
- A nurse investigated for drug diversion saw her case dismissed after we intervened.
These are just a few examples of what happens when preparation meets persistence. Every client matters to us, whether the case makes headlines or never leaves the courthouse file room.
Federal and State Defense You Can Rely On
Federal and state cases move fast and hit hard. We’ve defended clients in both systems, including cases involving healthcare fraud, tax fraud, securities violations, financial crimes, and cyber offenses. Our firm has appeared before federal courts nationwide and is ready to travel when necessary.
Our federal defense attorneys handle investigations and prosecutions brought by agencies such as the DOJ, IRS, DEA, SEC, and HHS OIG, as well as state agencies like the New York Attorney General’s Office, MFCU, and OMIG. We understand how these agencies operate and how to protect clients before, during, and after formal charges.
Professional License Defense and Government Investigations
For licensed professionals, a criminal allegation can threaten both reputation and livelihood. We represent physicians, nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers before disciplinary boards and investigative bodies such as OPMC and OPD.
We also defend individuals and businesses during government investigations involving subpoenas, fraud allegations, or compliance issues. Our goal is to resolve matters early, quietly, and with as little disruption as possible.
Our Philosophy
We owe loyalty to one person—you. We don’t make empty promises or sugarcoat the truth. We analyze, prepare, and act decisively. That’s why clients—professionals, business owners, and everyday New Yorkers—trust us when everything is on the line.
We believe that effective defense begins with trust, built through honest conversations and relentless work. From the first call to the last appearance, we’re in your corner, protecting what matters most—your freedom and your future.
Criminal Defense and Government Investigations Across New York and Nationwide
We defend clients in both state and federal courts, covering the full range of criminal and regulatory matters. Whether you’re facing a complex fraud indictment, a professional license investigation, or a local misdemeanor, we bring the same level of preparation and precision to every case.
Our team is made up of experienced trial lawyers who know how prosecutors think, what investigators look for, and how to dismantle weak cases before they gain traction.
Federal Criminal Defense
Federal cases move quickly and leave little room for error. We handle investigations and prosecutions involving:
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Health Care Fraud
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Tax Fraud and IRS Criminal Investigations
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Mail and Wire Fraud
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Securities Fraud and Insider Trading
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PPP Loan Fraud
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Conspiracy Charges
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Cyber Crimes
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International Criminal Law and Extradition Matters
We’ve appeared before federal courts across the country and have defended clients in cases brought by the Department of Justice, FBI, IRS, DEA, HHS OIG, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. If you’ve received a subpoena, target letter, or been contacted by investigators, now is the time to call us.
State Criminal Defense
We represent individuals and businesses in all New York State courts, from misdemeanors to major felonies. Common cases include:
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Theft and Larceny Offenses
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Assault and Violent Crimes
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Drug Possession and Distribution
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DWI and DWAI
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Domestic Violence Allegations
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Sex Crimes
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Financial and Property Crimes
Whether you’re charged in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, or Staten Island, our attorneys are familiar with each court’s procedures, judges, and prosecutors. We’re ready to fight for dismissals, reductions, or full acquittals when trial is the right move.
Professional License Defense
For licensed professionals, an accusation can jeopardize years of hard work. We represent:
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Physicians and Physician Assistants
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Nurses and Nurse Practitioners
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Pharmacists
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Dentists and Optometrists
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Physical Therapists
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Psychologists and Social Workers
We handle OPMC and OPD investigations, disciplinary hearings, and criminal matters connected to licensing issues. Our job is to protect your license, your livelihood, and your reputation.
Government Investigations and Regulatory Defense
Government investigations can start quietly—with a subpoena, a letter, or a call from an agent—and escalate fast. We represent clients in matters involving:
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SEC and FINRA investigations
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IRS criminal tax inquiries
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DEA controlled substance investigations
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HHS OIG and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) cases
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Attorney General’s Office and OMIG inquiries
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NYC Department of Investigation (DOI) and NYS Department of Health actions
Our approach is proactive. We step in early, manage communications with investigators, and work to resolve issues before formal charges are filed. When prosecution is unavoidable, we prepare meticulously for trial or negotiation to secure the best possible outcome.
Serving Clients Across New York City and Nationwide
Our cases take us everywhere—from Manhattan courtrooms to federal courthouses across the United States.
When someone in New York faces criminal charges or an investigation, we’re the team they call first.
We represent clients in New York City, the Tri-State area, and across the United States in federal criminal matters. Whether you live here or your case brought you here, we know the local courts, judges, and prosecutors—and we know how to defend you in their arenas.
New York City Criminal Defense Attorneys
We appear daily in New York City’s busiest criminal courts.
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Manhattan Criminal Lawyers: We handle cases at the Manhattan Criminal Court, Supreme Court, and federal courts in the Southern and Eastern Districts.
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Brooklyn Criminal Lawyers: From downtown Brooklyn to Kings County Supreme Court, our attorneys understand local procedures and how to negotiate effectively with Brooklyn prosecutors.
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Queens Criminal Lawyers: We’ve defended clients charged with everything from narcotics to white-collar crimes in Queens County.
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Bronx Criminal Lawyers: Our team knows the pace and personality of Bronx courtrooms and how to cut through the backlog.
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Staten Island Criminal Defense: Smaller borough, serious cases. We defend clients in Richmond County with the same intensity as Manhattan or Brooklyn.
Every borough has its own rhythm, and after years in these courtrooms, we know them all.
Long Island, New Jersey, and the Tri-State Area
Our reach extends far beyond New York City.
We regularly defend clients in Nassau and Suffolk County courts on Long Island, as well as in New Jersey state and federal courts.
Whether it’s a financial crime investigated by the IRS in New Jersey or a healthcare fraud case in Long Island, we bring the same preparation and experience to every matter. When the stakes are high, distance doesn’t matter—we go where our clients need us.
Nationwide Federal Representation
Federal investigations don’t stop at state lines, and neither do we. Our attorneys have represented clients across the United States in cases involving the Department of Justice, IRS, DEA, and SEC.
If your case involves multiple jurisdictions or interstate conduct, we have the resources and experience to manage it effectively from start to finish.
What You Need to Know When Facing Criminal Charges in NYC
People often find us at the moment their life changes—a knock at the door, a subpoena, a call from an investigator, or an arrest in the middle of the night. The next steps you take matter. Below are some of the most common questions clients ask us when they reach out for help.
What Should I Do If I Am Arrested in New York City?
Stay calm and stay silent. The worst thing you can do is start explaining your side before speaking to a lawyer.
Ask for an attorney immediately and avoid answering any questions from the police or investigators, no matter how harmless they sound.
Once you call us, we move fast—contacting law enforcement, securing your release where possible, and making sure your rights are protected from the very start. The earlier we get involved, the more options you’ll have.
What Is the Process of a Criminal Case in NYC?
Every case begins with investigation and arrest, followed by arraignment. That’s where you’ll hear the charges against you and where bail or release is decided.
From there, we dig in. We request evidence, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and look for flaws in the investigation—everything from how evidence was collected to whether your constitutional rights were violated.
We handle pre-trial motions, negotiations, and, if needed, jury trials.
The process can feel overwhelming, but that’s why we’re here—to take control of it and keep you informed every step of the way.
Can My Criminal Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes. Many cases can be reduced or dismissed entirely through negotiation, motion practice, or exposure of weak evidence. We’ve secured dismissals in cases that seemed unwinnable because we found what others missed—a flawed search, unreliable witnesses, or procedural errors that broke the prosecution’s case.
While no result can ever be guaranteed, our track record shows what preparation and persistence can accomplish. We focus on realistic, strategic outcomes—whether that’s a full dismissal, a reduced charge, or an alternative to incarceration.
What Are the Potential Penalties for Criminal Convictions in NYC?
Penalties depend on the charge, but they can include jail or prison time, probation, fines, restitution, or community service. The real impact, however, often goes further—loss of employment, immigration consequences, license suspensions, and damage to your reputation.
Our goal is always to minimize harm in every form. That means protecting not just your freedom, but your future—your career, your family, and your name.
What If I’m Wrongly Accused of a Crime?
False accusations happen more often than most people think. Whether it’s mistaken identity, false statements, or a malicious complaint, we know how to expose weak evidence and hold the state accountable for what it can’t prove.
We build a defense rooted in facts, not assumptions—cross-examining witnesses, obtaining surveillance footage, and working with investigators to uncover the truth. A wrongful accusation can destroy a life if not handled correctly; we make sure that doesn’t happen.
Contact Norman Spencer Law Group PC | New York Professional License Defense Attorney
If you’re facing an OPD investigation or disciplinary action, it’s important to act promptly. The earlier you seek legal guidance, the more prepared you can be at each step of the process.
At Norman Spencer Law Group PC, we represent professionals across New York who are navigating challenges with their licenses. We welcome inquiries from healthcare providers, accountants, mental health professionals, and other licensed individuals who need informed legal support. Consultations are confidential and designed to help you understand your options before moving forward.