A Top Criminal Defense Law Firm

Our firm's legal expertise is exceptional, backed by a dedicated team proven to be New York's top criminal defense law firm.

Criminal Defense and Investigations Counsel in High-Stakes Matters

Levin & Associates, PLLC is a New York–based criminal defense and investigations practice led by Mr. Levin, a former federal prosecutor and former senior attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. The firm represents individuals, executives, and companies in matters where criminal exposure, investigative pressure, and reputational risk converge—and where seasoned judgment from the earliest stage can meaningfully shape the outcome.

The firm’s practice focuses on white-collar criminal defense, complex investigations, fraud matters, and parallel regulatory and criminal proceedings. Levin & Associates is frequently retained at the outset of a crisis: when a client requires an immediate assessment of the government’s theory, a disciplined plan to control risk, and strategic guidance on communications, preservation, and next steps before positions harden.

A Prosecutor’s Perspective, Applied to Defense

Mr. Levin’s background informs the firm’s approach to charging decisions, evidentiary leverage, and negotiation dynamics. Levin & Associates emphasizes rigorous early case assessment, targeted fact development, and focused advocacy designed to test the government’s proof and position clients for the strongest possible resolution—whether that means no charges, dismissal, a declination, or a negotiated disposition that minimizes collateral consequences.

Representative Areas of Practice

  • White-collar criminal defense and sensitive internal investigations
  • Fraud, theft, and complex financial disputes with potential criminal exposure
  • Government investigations, subpoenas, and witness representation
  • Parallel criminal and regulatory proceedings
  • Crisis management and reputational risk strategy
  • Asset restraint and forfeiture-related defense and advocacy
  • Pre-indictment advocacy and negotiations with prosecutors and regulators
  • Trial and motion practice in state and federal court

Discreet, Direct, and Strategically Focused

Clients often engage the firm in moments that demand speed and clarity—an arrest, a search warrant, a subpoena, or internal reporting that indicates potential exposure. Levin & Associates moves quickly to understand the facts, preserve options, and execute a strategy that protects clients’ liberty, livelihoods, businesses, and long-term interests.

If you are facing criminal allegations or an active investigation, or if you require counsel to manage investigative and reputational risk, Levin & Associates can help you assess next steps and proceed with a clear plan.

Duncan Levin of Levin & Associates is an experienced OFAC lawyer.

OFAC Lawyer FAQs

The different types of criminal defense vary depending on the facts of the case. Criminal defenses can be divided into two broad categories: affirmative defenses and general defenses. Affirmative defenses are those that involve acknowledging the allegations but asserting a legal justification or excuse for it. For example, self-defense is an affirmative defense. General defenses are those that deny the accused’s involvement in the crime. Examples of general defenses include mistaken identity, alibi, and lack of evidence. Other less common defenses include insanity, automatism, and entrapment. Ultimately, the type of criminal defense adopted depends on the facts of the case and the specific laws of the jurisdiction.

A criminal defense firm provides legal representation and counsel to individuals who have been charged with criminal offenses. They will work to protect their client’s rights and ensure that they receive a fair trial. The firm will work to analyze the case, develop a legal strategy, and represent the defendant in court. They will also negotiate with the prosecution for plea deals, conduct research and investigation, and work to find any evidence of innocence or mitigating circumstances. They may also work to reduce the severity of the charges or sentence, or to secure an acquittal or a dismissal of the charges.

If you have been accused of a crime, it is important to consider hiring a criminal defense lawyer. Some of the key signs that you may need a top criminal defense law firm include having been formally charged with a crime, the police wanting to question you about a crime, or if you have received a subpoena or search warrant. Another sign that you may need a criminal defense law firm is if you are being held in jail and are facing criminal charges. If you are facing any of these situations, it is critical that you contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.

When choosing a top criminal defense law firm, it is important to vet and check their credentials. Look for experienced lawyers with a positive reputation and solid track record of successful cases. Set up a consultation and talk to an expert in your area of need, so you can learn more about their practice and policies. With the right law firm, you will have experienced professionals on your side who can help you navigate the criminal justice system and protect your rights.

Notable Cases

Jennifer Weisselberg (Trump Organization criminal case)

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Harvey Weinstein

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People v. Steven Etkind

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United States v. Clare Bronfman (“NXIVM” case)

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Gen. Khalifa Hafter

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Charlie Walk

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Oleg Deripaska v. Janet Yellen

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Wiz Khalifa (“Khalifa Kush”)

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People v. Anna Sorokin (aka Anna Delvey)

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Mark Nordlicht (Platinum Partners) Acquittal

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Featured Practice Areas

Crisis Management & Risk Mitigation

Our best result is that no one knows how well we did our job — because no one never found out about your crisis.

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Commercial Litigation and Disputes Practice

Levin & Associates is among New York’s premiere commercial litigation law firms.

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Regulatory Investigations

Levin & Associates is regularly considered one of the most admired and outstanding regulatory investigation legal firms in the United States.

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Sovereign Immunity Practice

Levin & Associates has extensive experience in litigation concerning immunity and other issues under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act.  

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Criminal Defense Practice

Complex criminal, financial, and commercial investigations and charges require an experienced legal team.

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Foreign Trade Sanctions Practice

Our OFAC experience is unparalleled, with extensive connections at federal and state enforcement.

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Bespoke Legal Counsel & Elite Representation

Industry leading legal representation for criminal defense, complex financial investigations, and international business affairs.

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