From Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C. - Charged vs Convicted breaks down the critical legal differences between being charged with a crime and being convicted in New York. In this episode, Suffolk County criminal defense attorney Jason Bassett explains how a criminal charge begins with an accusatory instrument such as a misdemeanor complaint, information, or indictment, while a conviction occurs only after proof beyond a reasonable doubt at trial or through a guilty plea. Listeners gain a clear understanding of how a case moves from arrest to arraignment, and why a charge does not equal guilt.
The episode explores what happens after an arrest in Suffolk County and Nassau County, including arraignment under CPL § 170.10, the role of the Suffolk County Police Department, Desk Appearance Tickets (DATs), and securing orders that determine bail or pretrial release. Jason Bassett, Esq., a former Assistant District Attorney in the Queens County District Attorney's Office and former Special Assistant Attorney General in the New York Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, discusses constitutional protections such as Miranda rights, the Fifth Amendment right to remain silent, and the Sixth Amendment right to counsel. The conversation also highlights proceedings at the Cohalan Court Complex in Central Islip and the Arthur M. Cromarty Court Complex in Riverhead.
Listeners will also learn how felony cases proceed through the grand jury process, what it means to be indicted, and how defense strategies can include motions to suppress under CPL § 710.10, challenges to eyewitness identification, and arguments based on lack of intent, self-defense, or constitutional violations. The episode explains how plea bargains work in New York, the risks and advantages of accepting a guilty plea, and what “guilty as charged” truly means under the highest burden of proof in the American legal system.
Finally, the podcast addresses the long-term consequences of a criminal conviction, including the creation of a permanent record, the impact on employment under New York Correction Law Article 23-A, housing challenges, and record sealing eligibility under CPL § 160.59. Serving clients throughout Long Island from 320 Carleton Avenue, Suite 4200, Central Islip, New York, Jason Bassett provides insight shaped by over 21 years of criminal law experience in state and federal courts, offering guidance to individuals facing charges in Suffolk County and beyond.
Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C.
320 Carleton Ave #4200, Central Islip, NY 11722, United States
(631) 259-6060
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