Second opinions · New York City & Long Island
Second Opinions and Independent Case Evaluations in New York Criminal Cases
Already represented by a public defender, assigned counsel, or a private attorney? Sharifov & Associates, PLLC provides independent second opinions on pending criminal cases in New York City, on Long Island, and in federal court, so you understand where your case stands, what your options are, and whether a plea offer makes sense.
- Former prosecutors’ perspective
- Plea offer evaluations
- Trial strength analysis
- In person, by video, or by phone
- Quick turnaround
- State and federal cases
Why people ask for a second opinion
When your case still does not make sense.
Many people who contact us have already appeared in court several times in New York City or on Long Island and still do not fully understand what is happening in their case.
They tell us that their public defender or privately retained attorney asks them to return to court again and again without clearly explaining why the case keeps being adjourned, what progress has been made, or what to expect next.
The result is frustration, confusion, and uncertainty about the future. A second opinion gives you an independent, experienced look at your case (the charges, the evidence, the procedural history, and the realistic options) from attorneys who are not already involved in it.
A second opinion can help when
- You received a plea offer and need to decide whether to accept it.
- Your case has been adjourned again and again, and no one has explained why.
- A hearing, a motion decision, or a trial date is approaching.
- You are worried about immigration, a professional license, employment, or your driver’s license.
- You disagree with your attorney’s advice, or you simply want an independent perspective.
- You are considering a new attorney and want to understand your case first.
Our process
How we conduct a second opinion and case evaluation.
- 01
Gather the record
We begin by collecting as much information as possible about the case: the charges, the procedural history, the available evidence, and any prior court proceedings.
- 02
Study the evidence and the law
We review the materials, examine the procedural history, and evaluate the legal issues, including possible motions and defenses.
- 03
Interview you
We meet with you to hear your account of the events and to clarify any outstanding factual questions.
- 04
Give you a clear assessment
We explain our findings in plain language: where the case stands, the legal options, potential defenses, and realistic possible outcomes.
What we may review
The materials we review depend on the charges, the stage of the case, and the information available to us.
New to the process? Read the New York criminal case timeline.
- Court documents, criminal complaints, indictments, and other filings
- Records and documents you provide
- Information obtained directly from the courts
- New York State DMV records, when relevant
- Discovery from your current attorney, with your authorization and subject to any protective order
- Police reports, witness statements, and other investigative materials
- Body-worn camera footage, surveillance recordings, and other video evidence
- 911 recordings and other audio evidence
- Motions filed by the defense or the prosecution, and the court’s decisions
- Grand jury minutes, hearing transcripts, and other transcripts, when available and appropriate
Plea offers
Evaluating a plea offer before you decide.
One of the most common reasons people ask for a second opinion is a plea offer. You may have received an offer from the District Attorney’s Office, or from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in a federal case, without understanding whether it is in your best interest or whether a better resolution may be possible.
We also assess the strength of the case for trial: how the evidence, the witnesses, and the legal issues are likely to hold up before a judge or jury, and what realistic prospects of success the defense may have. No attorney can guarantee a verdict, but an honest assessment of trial strength is essential to deciding whether to accept a plea.
Our objective is to help you understand whether the proposed plea is reasonable, whether further negotiation may be warranted, or whether continuing to litigate the case may be the better option. The decision whether to accept a plea always remains yours.
Related guides: plea bargaining in New York and immigration consequences of criminal cases.
When we evaluate a plea offer, we consider
- The strength of the prosecution’s evidence
- Potential defenses and possible motions
- Your criminal history
- The charges and your sentencing exposure if convicted at trial
- How the case is likely to hold up at trial
- Consequences beyond the criminal case: immigration status, professional licensing, employment, and driving privileges
How we meet
In-person, video, and telephone consultations.
We know that repeated trips to an attorney’s office are not always practical. In addition to in-person meetings by appointment, we offer case evaluations by Zoom, Google Meet, WhatsApp video, and telephone.
Remote meetings let us review your case, explain our findings, discuss your options, and answer your questions without you having to travel. They can often be scheduled sooner than an in-person appointment, especially if you have a demanding work schedule or live outside New York City or Long Island.
If you or a family member is incarcerated, we can arrange a consultation at the correctional facility or remotely, where the facility permits. However we meet, the goal is the same: a thorough, meaningful evaluation of your case.
In person
Meet with an attorney by appointment.
Video
Zoom, Google Meet, or WhatsApp video.
Telephone
Discuss your case by phone.
In custody
At the correctional facility or remotely, where the facility permits.
Clarity and peace of mind
Helping you understand your case.
One of the most rewarding parts of this work is hearing clients say, after a consultation, that they finally understand what is happening in their case. Many had little understanding of the proceedings, their options, or the possible consequences, and some learn about legal issues, possible defenses, or procedural developments that had never been fully explained to them.
We believe an informed client is better equipped to make important decisions about their future.
Not a criticism of your current attorney
Our second opinions are not intended to criticize or undermine the attorney who represents you. If our review shows that your attorney is handling the case appropriately and pursuing a sound strategy, we will tell you so.
There is, however, an important difference between an attorney knowing what needs to be done and making sure the client understands it. An attorney may be taking every appropriate step, but unless those steps are clearly explained, the client can remain anxious, confused, and dissatisfied.
A criminal case can affect your freedom, reputation, employment, immigration status, family, and future. Every person facing criminal charges deserves not only competent representation, but also a clear understanding of the proceedings, the options, and what to expect. Our second opinion consultations are designed to give you that information, perspective, and peace of mind.
Independent case review
Request a second opinion or case analysis
If you have an open criminal case and already have an attorney, you may request a detailed second opinion about motions, hearings, discovery, a plea offer, trial strategy, or another important decision in your case.
Documents are suggested before scheduling
Sending available court records before scheduling can help the firm evaluate the case. Useful materials may include discovery, charging papers, court orders, motions, hearing transcripts, plea offers, and prior attorney correspondence.
To share documents, please call our office. We will provide a secure way to send them.
Victims, complainants, and witnesses
Legal consultations for crime victims and complainants in New York criminal cases.
Our office also regularly hears from people who are victims, complainants, or witnesses in pending criminal cases.
Unlike a defendant, who has the right to counsel, a complainant or crime victim generally does not have an attorney appointed to represent their personal interests in the criminal case. The District Attorney’s Office prosecutes the case on behalf of the People of the State of New York; prosecutors do not act as personal attorneys for individual complainants.
As a result, many victims and witnesses are unsure of their rights, their obligations, and their role in the process. Some have already spoken with police or prosecutors; others have not yet been contacted by the District Attorney’s Office. Many simply do not know what to expect next.
Independent legal guidance for victims and witnesses
We offer private consultations to complainants, crime victims, and witnesses who want to understand their rights and obligations in a pending criminal case. We explain the criminal justice process; the roles of the police, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and the court; and what you can reasonably expect as the case moves forward.
We can also discuss subpoenas and requests to testify, orders of protection, and communications with law enforcement or the District Attorney’s Office. When appropriate, we can advise you about your interests and help you communicate your concerns to the prosecution, consistent with applicable law and the attorney’s role.
Because the firm also represents people accused of crimes, we run a conflict check before any consultation about a specific case.
We can help with
- Subpoenas and requests to testify
- Grand jury and trial testimony
- Orders of protection
- Communicating with the District Attorney’s Office
- Understanding the stages of the case
Related: orders of protection in Family Court.
Frequently asked questions
Second opinion questions.
These answers provide general New York information. A lawyer must review the facts, papers, and deadlines in your individual matter.
What is a second opinion in a criminal case?
Can I get a second opinion if I already have a public defender or a private lawyer?
Will my current attorney know that I asked for a second opinion?
Do I have to change lawyers after the review?
I have a plea offer and a court date coming up. Is there enough time?
What documents should I have for a case review?
Is a second opinion consultation confidential?
Can you assess my chances of winning at trial?
Do you provide second opinions in federal criminal cases?
Can you review the case of a family member who is in custody?
How long does a second opinion take?
Questions from victims and witnesses.
Do I need my own attorney if I am the victim or complainant in a criminal case?
What rights do I have as a crime victim or witness in New York?
Am I required to cooperate with the District Attorney’s Office or appear in court?
Can I be required to testify before a grand jury or at trial?
What happens if I no longer want to participate, or I want the charges dropped?
How do I get an order of protection, and how long does it last?
Can an order of protection be changed or ended?
How long will the criminal case take?
Can I communicate with the prosecutor about my concerns?
Related guides
Learn more about your case.
Whether you are facing charges and want a second opinion, or you are a complainant or witness seeking independent guidance, our office can help you understand the proceedings, your rights, and the options available to you.
Talk with the firm
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