Sex offenses, such as sexual violence, sexual molestation, sexual assault, and sexual abuse, are different from most other offenses in that a mere accusation, let alone criminal charges and conviction, may quickly destroy a person’s reputation, employment prospects, and relationships with friends and family members. NYC sex crimes attorneys with Norman Spencer Law Group have a solid track record of defending the toughest of New York sexual criminal cases in state and federal courts.

A person in New York or New York City convicted of any sexual criminal case, not even one of sexual violence, loses more than they can ever imagine as they are marked for the rest of their life. In most cases, besides suffering emotional distress by serving a lengthy prison term, the person must register as a sex offender, which means that their private information, such as name, photo, and address, will be made public.

And our New York law limits the types of employment this person may hold and the places where he can live. This is a stigma that will last a lifetime.

Sex Crimes, Defined

A sex crime is a generic name for a group of sexual assault offenses that include:

• Sexual Misconduct
• Rape
• Criminal Sexual Act
• Forcible and Unwanted Touching
• Sexual Abuse
• Aggravated Sexual Abuse
• Facilitating Sex with Drugs (Date Rape)
• Prostitution
• Child Sexual Abuse and Pornography

If you’re charged with a sex crime in New York, it’s crucial to hire an experienced sexual assault attorney who is prepared to go to trial to defend you. At the Norman Spencer Law Group, we understand that your life and reputation are on the line, and we will build a robust defense for you. Here’s how we can help:

Investigating the Accuser’s Background

We’ll engage a legal team of private investigators to scrutinize the accuser’s background. The goal is to collect information that can be used at trial to undermine the accuser’s credibility.

Working with Forensic Experts

Scientific evidence plays a massive role in sex crime prosecutions, and we work closely with our forensic experts. Expert testimony is critical in understanding forensic evidence, such as DNA, and determining whether such evidence may indicate whether the defendant had committed the charged sexual acts.

Using Affirmative Defenses

We’ll explore the applicability of any affirmative defenses allowed under a particular statute, such as consent or medical treatment.

A conviction for a sex crime carries severe penalties ranging from violent felonies to lesser charges. A-I felony charges carry a minimum of 20 years in prison with a maximum of 25 years. In addition, the offender may have to pay a fine of up to $5,000 and register as a sex offender with the sex offender registry.

For class D felony charges, the offender may face a minimum of three years and a maximum of seven years in prison. A fine of up to $5,000 may apply, and the offender may have to register as a sex offender.

If you’re facing sex crime charges, seeking the assistance of a New York City sex crimes attorney can help mitigate potential penalties. At the Norman Spencer Law Group, we provide a confidential evaluation of your case to help you navigate the legal process. Contact us today for a professional and effective representation.

The Obligation to Register

If you’re on parole, probation, or sentenced to jail for a sex crime on or after January 21, 1996, you must register as a sex offender with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. This also applies to those convicted of a sex offense on or after that date, or those sentenced to probation or jail after that date. If you’re convicted in another state or federal or military court and move to New York, you must register within ten days.

The Three Levels of Offenses

There are three levels of offenses, depending on the offender’s risk of committing another sex crime and physical harm to the community. The sentencing judge decides which level applies to the particular case. It’s often a matter of contention between the prosecution and defense. The higher the risk, the more information is available to the public.

The Consequences of Being on the Sex Offender Registry

Sex offender registration can significantly impact your life. It can affect your employment opportunities and may show up every time you need to pass a background check. Your name will appear on national registries that let others search for sex offenders in their area.

If you’re facing charges for a sex crime in New York, contact our law offices in New York City today for a consultation with New York sexual abuse lawyers. We’ll carefully review your case and give you an honest opinion on the situation. Don’t settle for just any sexual assault lawyer – hire the best to defend your rights and your freedom.