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new york sexual misconduct lawyer
Sexual misconduct allegations can ruin careers and lives. Maybe you were accused of workplace harassment or assault. Perhaps child abuse charges surfaced from years ago. Even false or inflated accusations can be devastating if not handled properly.
So where do you turn for help? Hiring an experienced New York sexual misconduct attorney is critical. Read on to learn how the right lawyer can defend your reputation and freedom.
Contents
- 1 Common NY Sexual Misconduct Charges
- 2 How Can a Lawyer Defend Sex Crime Charges?
- 3 Should You Make a Statement to Police?
- 4 Will an Attorney Help with False Allegations?
- 5 Should You Hire a Lawyer if You’re Guilty?
- 6 When Should You Hire a Sexual Misconduct Lawyer?
- 7 Choosing the Best Sex Crimes Lawyer
- 8 The Benefits of Strong Legal Representation
- 9 References
Common NY Sexual Misconduct Charges
Some potential charges a lawyer can help defend against include:
- Sexual harassment
- Indecent exposure
- Groping/fondling
- Rape
- Statutory rape
- Child molestation
- Sexual abuse
- Sexual assault
Penalties vary based on the specific allegations, from fines and probation to years in prison. Even misdemeanors can destroy careers and require registering as a sex offender.
How Can a Lawyer Defend Sex Crime Charges?
An experienced NY sex crimes lawyer has many strategies to get charges reduced or dismissed. For example, they may:
- Question the credibility of the accuser
- Challenge the validity of evidence
- Reveal ulterior motives by the accuser
- Prove consent in acquaintance rape cases
- Argue mistaken identity
- Point out inconsistencies in the accuser’s story
- Negotiate plea bargains for lesser charges
An attorney conducts a thorough investigation to build the strongest defense for trial or to get charges dropped pre-trial.
Should You Make a Statement to Police?
Absolutely not. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you are only trying to explain your side. Let your lawyer handle all communication with law enforcement.
Many seemingly “innocent” statements can still incriminate you. A skilled lawyer interacts with police and prosecutors on your behalf to avoid damaging admissions.
Will an Attorney Help with False Allegations?
Yes, a lawyer is critical if you’ve been falsely accused. They work aggressively to expose:
- Motive to fabricate charges (revenge, custody dispute, etc.)
- Inconsistencies and lies in the accuser’s story
- Lack of witnesses or physical evidence
- Mental health issues of the accuser
Proving your innocence of false allegations requires an experienced attorney on your side.
Should You Hire a Lawyer if You’re Guilty?
Absolutely. Avoiding a conviction is the lawyer’s job regardless of actual guilt or innocence. Smart legal maneuvering can lead to charges being lowered or dropped even if you committed the acts.
The prosecution still must prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt. Skilled lawyers instill doubt through solid defense strategies.
When Should You Hire a Sexual Misconduct Lawyer?
Immediately. The sooner a lawyer gets involved, the better. For example, they can:
- Intervene before police file charges
- Start investigating the accuser’s background
- Tell your side of the story to prosecutors
- Avoid harmful statements you might make
Don’t wait until you’re facing an indictment and trial. Early representation makes a huge difference.
Choosing the Best Sex Crimes Lawyer
Look for an attorney with extensive experience specifically handling sex offense cases. Ask potential lawyers:
- How many sexual misconduct cases have you taken to trial?
- What are your strategies for defending these charges?
- What results have you gotten for past clients?
- How can you help me avoid a conviction?
Go with a lawyer you trust and who clearly lays out how they will defend you.
The Benefits of Strong Legal Representation
Here’s how the right lawyer improves your chances of avoiding penalties:
- Dismissals happen in up to 30% of cases
- Over 75% of cases end in plea deals for reduced charges
- Less than 3% of cases end in guilty verdicts at trial
Don’t take chances with your future. An experienced sexual misconduct attorney can make all the difference.