Desk Appearance Tickets

We Take Desk Appearance Tickets (DATs) Seriously

When arrested, people are routinely given what is called “desk appearance tickets” or “DATs” for short. A desk appearance ticket is legally the same thing as a formal arrest. Because the police, the district attorney’s office and judges all treat desk appearance tickets seriously, you should too. It is critical that you contact a New York City criminal defense lawyer immediately at any time you are arrested, even if it’s “only” for a DAT.

Our attorneys at Konta Georges & Buza P.C. have handled virtually every type of criminal case both as defenders and prosecutors. Arrange a free consultation by calling 212-710-5166.

What Is A DAT?

After arresting and processing a suspect, police do not always feel the need to keep them in central booking. Instead, they will issue a DAT, which gives a date and time for when the arrestee is due in court for their arraignment.

There are a few factors that determine whether a defendant will be placed in central booking or given a DAT:

• If a person is charged with a felony, a domestic violence crime or has a significant criminal record, then they will be kept in central booking until their arraignment. In these cases, the arraignment must happen within 24 hours.
• Police may give a person a DAT if the crime is a misdemeanor and they believe the person will not miss their court date or run away. In this situation, you can await your arraignment at home.

Don’t let the use of the word “ticket” fool you. If you were given a DAT, you were placed under arrest, and you could be facing serious penalties, including jail time. You need to start building your defense.

Take Advantage Of The Time You Have Before Your Arraignment

If you or a loved one has been issued a DAT, and if you don’t go to court on the date you were instructed to go, the judge will issue a warrant for your arrest, meaning the police will arrest you on sight. It is extremely important you arrive at court at the specified date.

The upside of receiving a DAT is that you have time to find an attorney and start planning for your arraignment. This is a crucial period, as the police will be using this time to gather evidence against you.

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C. our lawyers have worked on both sides of the aisle. As a result, they are familiar with the strategies that prosecutors use throughout the criminal process. They will use their insight to secure the most favorable results possible for your case.

Call 212-710-5166 or contact the firm online to get started with a free consultation. Our attorneys are available 24/7 for arraignments.