Manhattan Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

Elite Defense for Complex Federal Investigations and Indictments in New York City

The moment you become the focus of a federal criminal investigation in Manhattan, everything changes. Whether it starts with a knock on your door from FBI agents, a grand jury subpoena, or a discreet phone call from investigators, you are entering one of the most aggressive and unforgiving legal arenas in the country.

The Southern District of New York (SDNY), based in Manhattan, is widely regarded as the most powerful and experienced federal prosecutorial office in the United States. Their cases are sophisticated. Their investigators are relentless. Their resources are virtually unlimited.

You need more than just a defense lawyer—you need an experienced, strategic advocate who has spent years navigating high-profile federal cases in this exact environment. That is where Sosinsky Law comes in.

Our firm represents individuals and organizations facing the most serious federal criminal charges in Manhattan. From corporate executives to healthcare providers to everyday citizens, we have defended clients against the full spectrum of federal offenses—and we know how to fight for your freedom.

Why the Southern District of New York Is Unlike Any Other Federal Jurisdiction

The SDNY isn’t just another federal court—it is the epicenter of some of the nation’s most high-profile criminal cases. Prosecutors in Manhattan are handpicked for their skill and tenacity. Their investigations are sophisticated, data-driven, and often international in scope.

If you are facing charges in SDNY, you are not up against average prosecutors. You are contending with seasoned attorneys backed by agencies like:

  • The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

  • The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

  • The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI)

  • The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

  • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

  • The Department of Justice Public Integrity Section

At Sosinsky Law, we understand how these agencies operate and how federal prosecutors in Manhattan build their cases. We also understand the internal workings of SDNY, from its investigative priorities to its sentencing trends. That knowledge allows us to craft defense strategies specifically tailored to the challenges of a Manhattan federal case.

High-Stakes Federal Charges We Defend

Federal investigations in Manhattan often target complex financial crimes and large-scale conspiracies, but federal jurisdiction also applies to many other serious offenses. Sosinsky Law routinely defends clients against charges including:

Financial and White-Collar Crimes

  • Securities fraud and insider trading

  • Bank fraud and wire fraud

  • Healthcare fraud and Medicare fraud

  • Money laundering and tax evasion

  • Government contracting fraud

  • PPP loan and pandemic-related fraud

Public Corruption and Bribery Allegations

  • Bribery of public officials

  • Honest services fraud

  • Political corruption

  • Pay-to-play schemes

Organized Crime and Racketeering (RICO)

  • Enterprise-related conspiracy charges

  • Extortion, fraud, and violent crime allegations tied to organized groups

International and Cross-Border Crimes

  • Global money laundering investigations

  • Sanctions violations

  • International bribery under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)

  • Narcotics trafficking across borders

Cybercrime and Technology Offenses

  • Computer intrusion and hacking charges

  • Identity theft and cyber-enabled fraud

  • Cryptocurrency-related criminal investigations

Drug Trafficking and Narcotics Conspiracies

  • Distribution and importation charges

  • Conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute

  • Mandatory minimum sentencing cases tied to drug offenses

Our Approach: Sophisticated, Discreet, Relentless

Federal investigations and indictments often unfold over months or years. Prosecutors and agents quietly build their case behind the scenes while gathering documents, conducting surveillance, and interviewing witnesses.

At Sosinsky Law, we believe the most effective defense begins long before an arrest or indictment. Our approach is built on three pillars:

1. Discreet, Early Intervention
The moment you suspect you are under investigation, contact our firm. We work quietly to engage with federal prosecutors, assess your risk, and intervene where possible to limit exposure or resolve matters before charges are filed.

2. Strategic Case Analysis
We leave no detail unchecked. Our team conducts a meticulous review of government evidence, grand jury materials, financial records, and witness statements. We uncover weaknesses, procedural flaws, and alternative interpretations that can dismantle the prosecution’s narrative.

3. Relentless Trial Readiness
If charges cannot be avoided, we prepare aggressively for trial. Our reputation as a firm willing and able to take cases to court often strengthens our hand in pretrial negotiations. Prosecutors know we will not be intimidated.

Defending Professionals, Executives, and High-Profile Clients

Sosinsky Law is known for representing clients whose cases carry not only legal consequences but also significant reputational risks. We have defended:

  • C-suite executives facing fraud and conspiracy allegations

  • Physicians and healthcare professionals under healthcare fraud investigation

  • Financial industry professionals charged with securities or insider trading offenses

  • Public officials accused of corruption or bribery

  • High-net-worth individuals and business owners facing federal scrutiny

We understand that for many of our clients, protecting their career, business interests, and public image is just as important as defending against the charges themselves. Our firm provides the discretion, strategic planning, and high-level advocacy these cases demand.

Federal Sentencing: Advocacy That Makes a Difference

Federal sentencing in Manhattan is driven by complex factors, including:

  • The United States Sentencing Guidelines

  • Mandatory minimum sentences, particularly in drug, firearm, and certain fraud cases

  • The discretion of the sentencing judge based on mitigation

Our firm brings a comprehensive approach to sentencing advocacy, including:

  • Preparing detailed mitigation reports

  • Retaining expert witnesses in psychology, finance, or medicine to provide context

  • Presenting a complete picture of your life, accomplishments, and circumstances

  • Developing proposals for alternative sentencing options

The reality is that even in cases where a conviction is likely, how your lawyer presents you at sentencing can significantly influence your future. We know how to humanize our clients and fight for the most favorable outcome possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Manhattan Federal Criminal Defense

What makes federal criminal cases in Manhattan different from state cases?

Federal cases involve violations of U.S. law and are prosecuted in federal court, often carrying harsher penalties. In Manhattan’s SDNY, prosecutors are especially aggressive and cases frequently involve large-scale financial crimes or conspiracy allegations.

If I haven’t been charged yet, do I need a lawyer?

Absolutely. The most critical time to protect yourself is before formal charges are filed. Early legal intervention can prevent damaging mistakes and, in some cases, avoid prosecution entirely.

Can federal cases in Manhattan involve international investigations?

Yes. SDNY often works with international partners on cases involving cross-border transactions, money laundering, narcotics trafficking, and foreign bribery. Our firm has experience handling cases with international dimensions.

What happens if I receive a target letter or grand jury subpoena?

A target letter means prosecutors believe you are likely to be charged. A grand jury subpoena demands documents, records, or testimony. Do not respond without consulting an experienced federal defense lawyer.

How long do federal investigations typically last?

Federal investigations can last months or even years. Many clients retain us at the earliest stages, allowing us to guide them through the process and, where possible, mitigate exposure before indictment.

Contact a Manhattan Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you are under investigation or facing federal criminal charges in Manhattan, you are not just dealing with prosecutors—you are facing one of the most formidable legal systems in the country. The Southern District of New York brings some of the government’s most experienced attorneys and investigators to the table. You deserve equally formidable representation.

Sosinsky Law provides high-level, strategic defense for clients facing serious federal charges in Manhattan and throughout New York City. We are ready to stand by your side, protect your rights, and fight for your future.

Call (212) 285-2270 today for a confidential consultation with a respected Manhattan federal criminal defense lawyer.

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Case Results
A successful contractor was arrested and charged with felony possession of a loaded firearm and Class C felony possession of marijuana based upon the seizure of these items in a search pursuant to warrant. As has been well advertised, in almost all gun cases in NYC, prosecutors will insist on state prison sentences even for those willing to plead guilty. After presentation of mitigating evidence however, Mr. Sosinsky was able to negotiate a sentence of nine months in jail for his client, meaning his client was out in six months.
A young man who had been a heralded star high school hoopster in Brooklyn was indicted as part of a large multidefendant fraudulent check cashing conspiracy. The client unfortunately had previously been involved in a similar prosecution and worse yet had been arrested during the pendency of the federal case for yet again committing a similar offense. Notwithstanding these hurdles, Mr. Sosinsky was able to convince the federal judge to spare his client a prison sentence and allow him to earn his freedom while on probation.
Mr. Sosinsky represented a prominent attorney accused of assaulting and endangering the welfare of his 13 year son. It turned out that the child was being used as a pawn by the client’s ex-wife and that the incident at the heart of the case involved proper disciplining of a difficult and, at times, violent child. Eventually, the charges against the lawyer were dismissed.
Mr. Sosinsky obtained a verdict of not-guilty of murder in the execution style shooting of a young man involved in gang activities in Harlem, New York City. By demonstrating important differences in the description of the shooter from witnesses called by the prosecution, Mr. Sosinsky was able to raise valid doubts about the correctness of the identifications made at trial.
A few years back, Mr. Sosinsky represented a Manhattan man who was arrested after stabbing his wife in the neck numerous times with a knife in their Upper West Side apartment. The client was indicted for attempted murder. However, after having the client examined by a forensic psychiatrist, it became evident that a compelling insanity defense was in order. Eventually, the prosecutors involved were unable to adequately prepare to counter this defense and the case was dismissed.

NYC Criminal Defense

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