Criminal Defense in New York

New York ( NY)
Average: $15,000
Last Updated: Mar 2026
Low Estimate
$5,000
Simple / Uncontested Cases
Average Cost
$15,000
Typical Criminal Defense Case
High Estimate
$150,000
Complex / Contested Cases
Cost Component Low Average High
Attorney Hourly Rate $275/hr $398/hr $700/hr
Total Cost Estimate $5,000 $15,000 $150,000
Court Filing Fee $500

What to Know About Criminal Defense Costs in New York

Criminal defense in New York ranges from $5,000 for misdemeanors in upstate areas to $150,000+ for serious felonies in NYC.

Sources: State criminal code, Clio Legal Trends 2025, State Bar Association (NY)

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See how New York compares to other Northeast states for criminal defense costs.

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See how New York compares to other states for criminal defense costs.

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