Sex Crime Law

Defense Against Sex Crime Charges in New York

Being accused of a sex crime can have devastating consequences. At Kimberley Pelesz New York Law, we provide compassionate and strategic defense for individuals facing sex crime charges.

Understanding Sex Crime Charges

Sex crime accusations in New York can include:

• Rape or sexual assault
• Criminal sexual acts
• Sexual abuse
• Statutory rape
• Possession or distribution of child pornography
• Internet sex crimes
• Failure to register as a sex offender
• Indecent exposure or public lewdness.

These charges often carry severe penalties, including mandatory prison time, sex offender registration, and social consequences affecting employment, housing, and relationships.

Charged With Rape in New York? What You Need to Know Right Now

Being charged with rape is one of the most serious and life-altering events a person can face. According to The New York State Senate, rape is classified under Penal Law Article 130 and involves engaging in sexual intercourse without consent, whether through force, threat, or the victim's inability to consent due to age, intoxication, or mental incapacity. If you are facing these charges, it's critical to understand the legal landscape and act quickly to protect your rights.

According to The New York State Senate, New York divides rape charges into three degrees, each carrying severe consequences:

• Rape in the First Degree (NY Penal Law 130.35):
• This applies when intercourse occurs through forcible compulsion, or with a person who is physically helpless or under age 11. It is a Class B felony, punishable by 25 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.
• Rape in the Second Degree (NY Penal Law 130.30):
• This applies when an adult engages in intercourse with someone under 15 or with someone incapable of consent due to a mental disability. It is a Class D felony, with penalties of up to 7 years in prison.
• Rape in the Third Degree (NY Penal Law 130.25):
• This includes cases where there is a lack of consent due to age or other statutory conditions, even if force is not involved. It is a Class E felony.

In addition to prison time, a rape conviction can result in lifelong sex offender registration, restrictions on housing and employment, loss of professional licenses, and lasting damage to your reputation.

These cases are often complex and emotionally charged. A strong defense may involve challenging the credibility of witnesses, questioning forensic evidence, or demonstrating consent. You need an attorney who understands both the law and the science behind these accusations.

Our seasoned rape attorneys in Hopewell Junction, NY are here to help you fight these charges and protect your future. At Kimberly Pelesz New York Law, LLC, we provide experienced, compassionate, and aggressive defense for individuals accused of rape and other sex crimes. We understand the stakes and are committed to defending your rights from day one.

If you've been accused, don't wait-speak with our trusted rape attorneys in Hopewell Junction, NY today for a confidential consultation. Your freedom and future are too important to leave to chance.

Understanding Criminal Sexual Acts and How to Build a Defense

According to The New York State Senate, in New York, criminal sexual acts are serious felony offenses defined under Article 130 of the Penal Law. These charges involve engaging in oral or anal sexual conduct with another person without their consent, either through the use of force, threats, or when the alleged victim is legally incapable of consenting due to age, mental incapacity, or physical helplessness. If you are facing such charges, it is critical to understand the law and take immediate steps to build a strong defense.

Criminal sexual acts are broken down into different degrees, with Criminal Sexual Acts in the First Degree being the most severe. This charge typically involves forcible compulsion or situations where the victim is under 11 years old, making it a Class B felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison, according to the New York State Unified Court System. Second- and third-degree charges apply to cases involving age differences, mental incapacity, or other statutory conditions and still carry significant penalties, including prison time and mandatory sex offender registration.

Being accused of a criminal sexual act can destroy your reputation, affect your family relationships, and cost you your job even before your case reaches court. That's why building an effective defense is essential. Common defense strategies include proving that the encounter was consensual, challenging the reliability of the accuser's statements, or identifying procedural errors in how evidence was collected.

A skilled attorney will carefully examine all the facts, from witness testimony to forensic evidence, and work with investigators and experts to challenge the prosecution's case. You need legal counsel with a deep understanding of both criminal law and the tactics necessary to navigate highly sensitive and emotionally charged cases.

Kimberly Pelesz New York Law, LLC offers the experience of top rape attorneys in Hopewell Junction, NY to fight for your rights in these complex cases. Our team is known for handling these delicate matters with professionalism, discretion, and a strong commitment to protecting our clients' futures.

If you've been charged with a criminal sexual act, don't wait to seek help. Kimberly Pelesz New York Law, LLC, and our trusted rape attorneys in Hopewell Junction, NY are ready to provide the dedicated defense you need. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step in protecting your freedom.

Sexual Abuse Allegations: Fighting Back Against Damaging Claims

Being accused of sexual abuse can have devastating consequences, even before any formal charges are filed. In New York, sexual abuse is defined as subjecting another person to sexual contact without their consent. Unlike rape or criminal sexual acts, sexual abuse typically involves unwanted touching rather than intercourse. However, the penalties and the damage to your reputation can still be severe.

New York law classifies sexual abuse into three degrees based on the circumstances of the act. These charges may arise from a range of situations, including misinterpreted behavior, false accusations, or cases involving minors where consent is not legally recognized. Understanding the specific charges and legal context is essential for mounting an effective defense.

Sexual Abuse in the First Degree

According to The New York State Senate, (NY Penal Law 130.65) involves forcible compulsion or situations where the victim is physically helpless or under age 11 and is considered a Class D felony. Second- and third-degree charges often involve situations with minors aged 14-16 or adults who are unable to consent due to mental impairment. These offenses can result in prison time, probation, and mandatory registration as a sex offender.

One of the most difficult aspects of fighting a sexual abuse allegation is the emotional and social weight these claims carry. In many cases, especially those involving children, the accused may face immediate judgment from the community, workplace, and even within their own family. The stigma alone can be life-altering, regardless of the legal outcome.

That's why it's critical to build a strong, strategic defense as early as possible. False or exaggerated allegations are not uncommon, particularly in high-conflict situations such as divorce, custody disputes, or interpersonal conflicts. A skilled defense attorney can scrutinize timelines, uncover inconsistencies in the accuser's story, and present evidence that challenges their credibility. Expert testimony, digital records, and character witnesses often play a key role in defending these cases.

Kimberly Pelesz New York Law, LLC offers the experience of top rape attorneys in Hopewell Junction, NY to help clients navigate these serious and sensitive legal challenges. Our team understands the complexities of cases involving both child and adult accusers, and we are committed to providing compassionate, thorough, and aggressive defense.

If you or someone you love is facing a sexual abuse allegation, don't wait. Contact our experienced rape attorneys in Hopewell Junction, NY for a confidential consultation and take the first step in protecting your name, your future, and your rights.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve been accused of a sex crime or are under investigation, contact us immediately. Early intervention can provide more options for your defense.

Confidential consultations are available. Call (845) 243-5990 or fill out our secure contact form for a call back!