Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I have been arrested or charged with a crime?

If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, it is important to understand your rights and avoid making statements about the allegations without first speaking with an attorney. Every criminal case is different, and decisions made early in the process can have lasting consequences. Natalie Rios can review the circumstances of your case, explain the charges and legal process, and help you understand your options moving forward.

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Should I speak to the police if I am under investigation?

You have the right to consult with an attorney before answering questions from law enforcement. Even if you have not been arrested or formally charged, statements made during an investigation may become relevant later. If you believe you are the subject of a criminal investigation, obtaining legal advice before speaking with investigators can help you make informed decisions and protect your rights.

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Do I need a criminal defense attorney if I have not been charged yet?

You do not have to wait until charges are filed to consult a criminal defense attorney. Natalie represents individuals during state and federal criminal investigations, including matters in which an arrest or formal charge has not yet occurred. Early representation can be particularly important when law enforcement has requested an interview, issued a subpoena, executed a search, or otherwise indicated that an investigation is underway.

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What types of criminal cases does Natalie Rios handle?

Natalie Rios represents clients in a broad range of criminal matters, including violent crimes and serious felonies, murder and manslaughter, attempted murder, firearms and weapons offenses, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, sexual offenses, white-collar and fraud matters, cyber and internet crimes, theft and property crimes, and other criminal allegations.

Her practice also includes representation involving criminal investigations, bail proceedings, probation and parole violations, appeals, and eligible record-relief matters.

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Does Natalie Rios handle serious felony and violent crime cases?

Yes. Natalie represents individuals facing serious felony and violent crime allegations, including murder, manslaughter, attempted murder, shootings, firearms offenses, assault, and robbery.

These cases can involve extensive evidence, witness testimony, surveillance footage, digital evidence, forensic evidence, and complex legal issues. The defense strategy depends on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.

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Does the firm handle both state and federal criminal cases?

Natalie handles criminal defense matters involving state and federal investigations and prosecutions. Federal cases can involve different investigative agencies, procedures, charging decisions, and sentencing considerations than cases prosecuted in state court, making it important to understand which system is involved from the beginning.

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Can Natalie represent Spanish-speaking clients?

Yes. Natalie Rios is bilingual in English and Spanish and can communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients and their families.

Being able to discuss charges, court proceedings, evidence, and defense strategy directly in a client's preferred language can make an important difference when navigating the criminal justice system.

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What happens during an initial consultation?

An initial consultation provides an opportunity to discuss the circumstances of your case or investigation, the charges you may be facing, and where the matter currently stands in the criminal process.

Natalie can review the information available at that stage, answer questions about the process, and discuss potential next steps. Because every case is different, the consultation also helps determine what information or documentation may be needed for a more complete evaluation.

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Can a criminal record be sealed in New York?

Certain criminal records may be eligible for sealing or other forms of relief under New York law, depending on the circumstances. Eligibility can depend on factors such as the type of conviction, disposition, and an individual's criminal history. Natalie can review a client's record and determine whether there may be an available legal avenue for record relief.

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What should I bring to a consultation with a criminal defense attorney?

If available, bring documents related to the case, such as court paperwork, summonses, appearance tickets, orders of protection, charging documents, or correspondence from law enforcement or prosecutors.

You should also preserve potentially relevant communications, photographs, videos, and other records. If you do not have all of this information yet, that should not prevent you from seeking legal advice.

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Does hiring a criminal defense attorney guarantee a particular outcome?

No attorney can ethically guarantee the outcome of a criminal case. Results depend on the facts, evidence, applicable law, procedural history, and many other circumstances unique to each matter.

Natalie's role is to evaluate the case, protect her client's rights, identify available legal and factual issues, and provide informed representation throughout the criminal process.

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How do I contact Natalie Rios about a criminal matter?

If you are facing criminal charges, have been contacted by law enforcement, or believe you may be under investigation, you can contact The Law Office of Natalie Rios through the website to request a consultation.