

Huntington Station Sex Crimes Lawyer
Sex Crimes
Arrested for a Sex Offense in Huntington Station? Contact Us Today for a Confidential Consultation
Sex crimes are some of the hardest to defend. Many people feel sympathy for an alleged victim who tearfully recounts a traumatic experience. More than one defendant has reported feeling as if no one believes them, and “guilt by accusation” is a real problem. Even worse, some prosecutors overcharge, even when evidence is weak.
Are you facing sex crime charges? You need a vigorous defense brought by an experienced attorney. Call Karpf Criminal Law today. We will fight to clear your name and restore your reputation from predatory sexual assault and aggravated sexual abuse charges. A Huntington Station sex crimes lawyer and New York sex crimes lawyer can review the charges and begin planning a defense against sexual misconduct or sexual conduct charges against you. Your initial consultation is fully confidential and carries zero additional obligations.
AN OVERVIEW OF Sex Crimes AND SEXUAL ABUSE in New York
A sex crimes charge with alleged sexual contact is one of the most serious allegations that any person could ever face. Not only does it carry extreme stigma, there are severe criminal penalties associated with a conviction for felony sex crimes. Most sex crimes charges are felony offenses in New York State. “Sex crimes” is an umbrella term for various crimes of a sexual nature. Some of the most serious sex crimes include:
- Rape (New York Penal Law §§ 130.25, 130.30, 130.35). This crime involves sexual intercourse by use of force or with someone who cannot consent either because of age, disability, or another reason. There are different degrees of rape. In 2024, New York broadened the definition of rape to include anal and oral penetration, in addition to vaginal penetration. Facing a rape allegation in Suffolk County? Contact our Huntington Station sex crimes defense attorney for immediate help.
- Forcible touching (NYPL § 130.52). You can face forcible touching charges for touching another person’s intimate parts to degrade that person or arouse yourself. This is a Class A misdemeanor. If you or your loved one was arrested for forcible touching, please do not hesitate to contact our Huntington Station sex offense lawyer for a confidential case review.
- Public lewdness (NYPL § 245.00). You can face public lewdness charges for intentionally exposing private parts in public or, in certain situations, in private. This is a Class B misdemeanor. Although categorized as a Class B misdemeanor offense, a conviction for public lewdness can still carry jail time in New York State.
- Child pornography. Various statutes make it a crime to possess or promote a sexual performance involving children. New York Penal Law § 263.16 makes it a crime to possess a sexual performance by someone under 16, which is a Class E felony. Our Huntington Station criminal defense lawyer has the experience to defend child pornography allegations.
Every person accused of a sex-based criminal offense is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The burden of proof for any criminal charge always rests on the shoulders of the prosecution. It is imperative that you raise a proactive defense that is well-suited to the particular circumstance of your case. Do not go at your sex crime conviction alone. If you are facing any crime of a sexual nature, such as oral or anal sex, or any other sexual act, call us.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT Sex Offense Sentencing
The sentence you face will depend on the crime and any aggravating factors. New York classifies crimes by level and establishes a sentencing range. Many sex crimes can result in decades behind bars if you are convicted.
A probation sentence is sometimes possible for lower-level felony offenses (Classed D and E). Probation comes with conditions you must meet, otherwise a judge can send you to prison. If you have questions about probation, a Huntington Station sex crimes defense lawyer can help.
In addition to a jail or prison sentence, many defendants are fined, put on probation, and assessed other penalties. Sex crimes are very serious, so reach out to an experienced attorney. A lawyer can review your charges and help you understand the possible penalties that you are facing.
WHEN YOU CAN FACE ENHANCED CRIMINAL PENALTIES
Ultimately, every sex crimes offense will carry penalties that are case-specific. The criminal charge and the circumstance of the case always matter when it comes to a criminal sexual act. Some sex crimes allegations carry the potential or enhanced criminal penalties. The ultimate sentence will depend on certain factors, such as:
- Prior convictions for sex offenses
- Use of a weapon
- Multiple victims
- Causing serious bodily injury to a victim
We will carefully review all facts to determine the maximum possible penalties. Understanding what you are facing often impacts the type of defense you raise. Repeat or persistent offenders face long odds of a favorable sentence. In fact, New York requires enhanced minimum sentences for repeat felony offenders.
UNDERSTANDING THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY IN NEW YORK
Those convicted of certain sex offenses will need to register with law enforcement and update their information if they move. Registration lasts for at least 20 years, and anyone deemed “high risk” will need to register for life. If you fail, then you can face felony charges simply for failing to follow the rules.
The database is public, and anyone can search it. For many defendants, appearing on the registry is something they fear. This is one more reason to fight the charges vigorously. Notably, New York State’s Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA) requires people convicted of certain sex crimes to register as sex offenders if they are convicted of an offense—including through a plea agreement. Here are some key points to know about the law:
- Three Levels of Offenders: There are three levels of sex offenders in New York State. Level 1 (Low Risk) requires registration for 20 years. Level 2 (Moderate Risk) registers lifetime registration with public access to certain information. Finally, Level 3 (High Risk) requires lifetime registration with more stringent reporting requirements.
- Understanding Reporting Requirements: In New York, sex offenders must provide updated information, including address, employment, and internet accounts, and verify their information annually or quarterly—depending on their classification level.
- Penalties for Noncompliance: Failing to register or update information can result in additional criminal charges. Indeed, it is a very serious matter. If you fail to meet sex offender registration requirements in New York State your probation (if you are on it) can be revoked. Further, you can be arrested and charged with a felony offense.
Can You Defend Sex Crimes?
You might feel hopeless after an arrest. Your name might be splashed across the paper as an alleged rapist or child molester. But we can often push back on any sex crime charges. The best defense will depend on the facts of your case. We often raise:
- Consent. This is a defense to some sex crimes. A minor and certain disabled or helpless adults cannot consent, but most adults can. If you have any questions about the consent defense, please do not hesitate to contact our legal team for help.
- Mistaken identity. Victims are often so shaken they cannot properly identify a suspect. Unduly suggestive lineups or photo arrays only add to the unreliability of any identification. If you were falsely accused based on mistaken identity, our firm is here to help.
- Reasonable doubt. There might not be sufficient proof that you committed all required elements of an offense. For example, child pornography might be found on your computer, but someone else accessed your laptop. Remember, prosecutors all bear the burden of proof in criminal cases—sex crimes charges are certainly not an exception to the rule.
- Accidental contact. You might have accidentally touched someone’s private parts without the requisite intent to degrade them or gratify any sexual desire. You should not be convicted where you lack a guilty mental state.
Ultimately, all criminal charges must be defended on a case-by-case basis. Sex crimes offenses are no exception to the rule. Your Huntington Station, NY criminal defense attorney can review the charges, investigate the allegations, evaluate the evidence, and help you explore every available defense strategy. In some cases, sex offense allegations should be defended aggressively. In other situations, it may be better to focus on trying to get charges reduced through a plea agreement.
WHY TRUST OUR HUNTINGTON STATION SEX CRIMES DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Sex crimes charges are challenging, sensitive cases. If you or your loved one is facing a criminal allegation, it is imperative that you know how to protect your rights and your interests. When you have been accused of a crime, police and prosecutors are not on your side. Our founder and lead attorney Andrew Karpf has the knowledge, skills, and experience that you can rely on when it matters most. We are proactive and we are devoted to providing personalized legal advocacy in every case. Among other things, our Huntington Station sex crimes defense lawyer is ready to:
- Hear your story, answer questions, and explain your rights;
- Investigate the sex crimes allegations—gathering all relevant evidence;
- Represent you before police and prosecutors; and
- Develop the defense strategy the best suited for your specific case.
SEX CRIMES CHARGES IN NEW YORK: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
When Should I Speak to a Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Huntington Station?
As soon as possible. Indeed, you should consult with an experienced sex crimes defense lawyer before charges are actually filed if you are aware that allegations have been made and that an investigation is underway. Sex offenses are a serious matter. You need professional support.
Will I Be Required to Register as a Sex Offender If Convicted?
It is a risk. Whether you must register as a sex offender depends on the specific charge and the outcome of your case. A conviction for many sex crimes often mandates registration under New York’s Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA)—and it could potentially be life-lasting registration. Your criminal defense lawyer can explore strategies to avoid registration if applicable.
Should I Accept a Plea Deal in a Sex Crimes Case?
The question cannot be answered in the abstract. Whether or not it makes sense to accept a plea deal in a sex crimes case is always highly fact-specific. A lawyer can review any proposed plea agreement and negotiate for the most favorable terms. Notably, it is important to remember any sex offender registration requirements before accepting a plea deal.
We Are the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer for Your Case
Facing a sex crimes charge is deeply stressful. It is imperative that you have an experienced advocate on your side. Call Karpf Criminal Law today, (631) 424-6444 to schedule a consultation! We will fight for your rights! We defend sex crimes charges in Huntington Station, Suffolk County, and throughout the surrounding region in Long Island.
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" When I was arrested, I thought my life was over. Karpf Criminal Law turned everything around. They fought for me like I was family, and thanks to them, I'm back home with my kids. I can't thank them enough. "