Photo of attorney Luke Scardigno
Strong Criminal Defense

Experienced, Dedicated And Ready To Protect Your Rights

Animal Cruelty Charges Can Lead To Serious Penalties

People love their pets and animals. That is why everyone accused of animal abuse, animal neglect or cruelty to animals must work diligently to ensure that their rights are protected in the criminal justice system. Neither judges nor law enforcement officials are immune from an emotional reaction when it comes to the treatment of animals.

I am Luke Scardigno, a fierce defender of the rights of people accused of crimes. From misdemeanor to felony charges, including animal cruelty and domestic abuse, I believe everyone is protected by the U.S. Constitution and is innocent until proven guilty.

From the beginning of your case through its conclusion, I will listen to what happened and what your goals are in combating the charges. I will work relentlessly to get you declared innocent, have the charges dropped or minimize the penalties you are facing. Your freedom and reputation are at stake, which is why it is so important to stand up for your rights and get to the truth of the situation.

Animal Abuse Registry

Similar to sex offenders, New Yorkers convicted of animal cruelty must register with the state. Once on the Animal Abuse Registry list, you are prohibited from owning, residing with or intentionally having physical contact with any animal for five years after the conviction. Being placed on the registry will prevent you from working with animals as well.

We Will Explore All Options In Your Defense

A conviction on an animal cruelty charge can be either a misdemeanor or felony. Depending on the charges, you could be facing significant time behind bars in addition to numerous other consequences.

The charges against you may be false. It could be that the actions or inaction that led to your arrest were exaggerated. In some cases, an arrest could arise from a one-time incident that anger management classes or treatment can resolve, helping you to mitigate the penalties associated with a conviction or leading to the dismissal of charges.

As an experienced criminal defense lawyer, I can help you examine your options and make strategic decisions about ways to eliminate or minimize the penalties you are facing.

Get A Free Initial Consultation

If you are facing charges relating to animal fighting, not providing food or shelter, torture or any of the numerous actions that are prosecuted under New York law, get help from an experienced criminal defense attorney.

I know how important the attorney-client relationship is. That is why I offer free consultations, so that you can meet with a lawyer at no cost and learn about your rights. Call our office in Queens at 718-414-6186 to set up a complimentary consultation or schedule online.