Long Island Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Facing sex crime charges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and fearful about what lies ahead. A conviction can carry consequences that affect every part of your life, including your freedom, career, relationships, and reputation.

In these moments, it may feel like everything is stacked against you. The stigma of an accusation alone can cause lasting harm, and the legal process is complex and intimidating. Without skilled representation, you risk navigating it alone.

At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we provide steady guidance and strong defense for those accused of sex crimes in Long Island and across New York. We take the time to explain the charges, investigate the facts, and challenge the prosecution’s case. Our role is to protect your rights, safeguard your future, and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Choose An Aggressive Defense Lawyer With The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C.

Being arrested and accused of a crime is an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. You may feel isolated and uncertain about what comes next. In this difficult time, having a Long Island criminal defense attorney who will listen, guide, and defend you can make a meaningful difference.

At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we take a thoughtful and calculated approach to every case. Our goal is to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Experience That Makes a Difference

Attorney Scott Gross brings perspective as both a defense lawyer and a former prosecutor. As a former Assistant District Attorney, he has firsthand knowledge of how the prosecution builds its cases. This experience allows him to anticipate strategies and develop defenses tailored to protecting your rights.

Hear From Clients We Have Defended

“Hire this man asap, no need to wait. From legal advice to Court house appearances. Scott Gross is the attorney to call. He’ll take your call, formulate a strategy and execute without failure. Best attorney I’ve ever hired.” — Dionamous W.

“Totally would recommend Scott Gross and services, very experienced, dedicated to his clients and work, definitely will fight for his client And worth every penny.” — Gorge F.

“I called for a consultation and Scott was knowledgeable, considerate and most of all sincere. I had several sleepless nights regarding a legal matter and he was able to help me settle my concerns in a matter of minutes. I would highly recommend Scott Gross to anyone, thank you for your human approach to law.” — Ricardo L.

Types of Sex Crime Cases The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., Handles

Our law firm represents clients across Long Island in a wide range of cases and sex crime cases. We handle cases throughout Garden City, Long Island, New York City boroughs such as Manhattan and Brooklyn, and surrounding areas.

Rape and Sexual Assault

These serious felonies may lead to lengthy prison sentences and lifetime registration. We review forensic evidence, DNA testing, and witness statements to challenge the prosecution’s case.

Statutory Rape

Sexual intercourse (including oral or anal conduct) with someone below the legal age of consent is typically charged as felony rape under New York law. However, sexual contact (such as touching) may be charged as misdemeanor sexual abuse, depending on the age difference and circumstances. Defense strategies may involve misrepresentation of age, lack of intent, or evidentiary weaknesses.

Child Pornography and Internet Crimes

Possession, distribution, or online solicitation can result in severe charges. We analyze digital evidence, examine warrants, and look for errors in forensic investigations.

Solicitation and Prostitution-Related Charges

Arrests from sting operations may involve entrapment or procedural mistakes. We carefully review law enforcement conduct for errors that may affect the case.

Indecent Exposure and Lewd Conduct

New York law refers to these offenses as “Exposure of a Person” (a violation under Penal Law § 245.01) and “Public Lewdness” (a Class B misdemeanor under § 245.00). Although these may seem minor, they can still lead to reputational harm and legal consequences. Possible defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent, or improper police procedures.

Campus Sexual Misconduct

We defend students facing Title IX investigations and criminal proceedings, working to protect both their academic standing and legal rights.

False Allegations

Sex crime accusations sometimes arise from disputes or personal conflicts. We investigate motives and present evidence to challenge false claims.

Sex Offender Registry Issues

We assist clients with classification hearings and petitions for relief when the law allows. Our goal is to minimize the long-term impact of registration.

How Can a Long Island Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer Help My Case?

When you are accused of a sex crime in New York, the consequences can be life-altering. A defense lawyer does more than stand beside you in court. They guide you through each step of the process and work to protect your future in the following ways:

Explaining the Charges and Potential Penalties

Your lawyer reviews whether the charges are misdemeanors or felonies, the possible prison terms and fines, and whether sex offender registration applies. They also explain collateral consequences such as employment and housing challenges so you understand the risks.

Investigating the Facts

A thorough defense begins with investigation. Your attorney examines police reports, interviews witnesses, and checks for inconsistencies or errors that may undermine the prosecution’s case.

Challenging the Evidence

Your lawyer may file motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, question the reliability of witnesses, and review forensic reports for mistakes. Creating reasonable doubt is essential to your defense.

Protecting Your Rights

From unlawful searches to improper questioning, a defense attorney ensures your constitutional rights are not violated during investigations or court proceedings.

Negotiating Resolutions

In some cases, negotiating a plea or alternative sentencing option may reduce penalties. A criminal defense attorney can advocate for reduced charges, treatment programs, or probation when appropriate.

Representing You in Court

If your case goes to trial, your attorney presents arguments, cross-examines witnesses, and addresses the judge and jury. Courtroom advocacy is critical in determining the outcome.

Advising on Defense Strategies

Possible defenses may include consent, mistaken identity, false allegations, or insufficient evidence. Your lawyer helps determine which approach fits the facts of your case.

Guiding Registry Issues

If a conviction leads to registration under New York’s Sex Offender Registration Act, your attorney can explain classification levels, advocate for a lower risk level, and pursue relief when the law allows.

Supporting You Throughout the Process

Beyond legal arguments, your lawyer keeps you informed, prepares you for hearings, and provides reassurance during a stressful time.

What to Look for in a Long Island Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

Selecting the right attorney is one of the most important decisions you will make if you are facing sex crime charges. The right lawyer should offer:

• Dedication to your case. Someone who prioritizes your rights, freedom, and future.
• Personalized attention. An attorney who listens to you and develops a defense strategy based on the facts of your situation.
• Trial experience. A lawyer prepared to represent you effectively in the courtroom.
• Clear communication. Honest updates and straightforward advice at every stage of the process.
• Confidential consultation. An initial meeting where your case is reviewed and your options are explained.

At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we provide these qualities to help guide you through one of the most difficult times of your life. Our goal is to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

How New York Defines Sex Crimes

New York Penal Law Article 130 sets out the definitions and penalties for sex offenses. These crimes vary in severity but all carry serious consequences if convicted. Common charges include:

• Rape (first degree, second degree, or third degree): Defined under Penal Law §§ 130.35, 130.30, and 130.25. These statutes now cover vaginal, oral, and anal sexual conduct without consent, or with individuals legally unable to consent due to age, force, or incapacity.
• Sexual misconduct: A misdemeanor involving non-consensual vaginal, oral, or anal sexual conduct not charged at a higher level.
• Sexual abuse: Covers unwanted sexual contact, with degrees ranging from misdemeanors to felonies.
• Forcible touching: Prohibits unwanted groping or sexual contact for sexual gratification.
• Persistent sexual abuse: Elevates repeated lower-level offenses to a felony.

For any of these offenses, the prosecution must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. Depending on the degree, penalties can range from misdemeanor convictions to Class B felonies carrying lengthy prison terms.

Penalties for a Sex Crime Conviction in New York

A conviction for a sex crime in New York can reach far beyond prison or fines. It can affect where you live, the jobs you qualify for, your education, and even your personal relationships. Background checks for employment, housing, or college admissions often reveal these convictions, creating barriers long after the sentence is complete.

Mandatory registration under the Sex Offender Registration Act is another lasting consequence. Depending on the assigned level, registration may continue for decades or for life, with restrictions on residency, employment, and public notification.

Because so much is at risk, it is vital to have a lawyer who understands both the law and the human cost of a conviction. At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we examine every detail of the charges, challenge weak or improperly obtained evidence, and develop a strategy designed to protect your future. Attorney Scott Gross also brings the perspective of a former prosecutor, giving him insight into how the state builds its case and how to push back effectively.

Common Sex Crime Charges in New York

New York Penal Law identifies multiple sex offenses under Article 130, each with its own elements and sentencing guidelines. While the exact penalties depend on the degree of the charge, most carry the risk of incarceration, post-release supervision, and sex offender registration. Some of the most common charges include:

• Rape (first, second, or third degree): Charges vary based on factors such as use of force, the age of the alleged victim, or incapacity to consent. First-degree rape is classified as a Class B felony and carries the harshest penalties.
• Criminal sexual act (first, second, or third degree): Involves oral or anal sexual conduct without consent, or with individuals legally unable to consent. Like rape charges, severity depends on age, incapacity, or force.
• Aggravated sexual abuse (first through fourth degree): These types of criminal offenses involve the use of objects or causing injury during an assault. First-degree aggravated sexual abuse is among the most serious sex crimes in New York.
• Sexual abuse (first, second, or third degree): Covers unwanted sexual contact. Higher degrees involve forcible touching or the abuse of minors and are charged as felonies.
• Forcible touching: A misdemeanor offense involving unwanted groping or touching for sexual gratification.
• Persistent sexual abuse: Elevates lower-level sexual offenses to felony status if the accused has prior convictions.
• Sexual misconduct: A misdemeanor that covers certain non-consensual sexual acts not charged at a higher degree.

If you are facing any of these charges, the consequences can be overwhelming. At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., our experienced criminal lawyer explains the charges in plain language, breaks down the potential outcomes, and develops a defense strategy aimed at protecting your rights and your future.

Other Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction

The effects of a sex crime conviction often continue long after the courtroom. In addition to prison time and fines, people convicted may face:

• Housing restrictions: Certain convictions may trigger restrictions under New York’s Sexual Assault Reform Act (SARA), which prohibits individuals on parole, probation, or post-release supervision from living within 1,000 feet of a school. Outside of these situations, registration alone does not always limit where you can live.
• Employment challenges: Many professions bar individuals with sex crime convictions, and background checks can make it harder to secure work.
• Immigration and travel limits: Convictions may affect visas, citizenship applications, or the ability to travel abroad.
• Social consequences: Reputational damage, strained relationships, and community stigma often follow a conviction.

At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we recognize these collateral consequences and factor them into your defense strategy. Our goal is not only to fight the charges but also to protect your future opportunities and minimize the long-term impact on your life.

Sex Offender Registration in New York

Most sex crime convictions in New York require registration under the state’s Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA). For individuals receiving probation, risk levels are assigned at sentencing; for those sentenced to jail or prison, risk levels are typically assigned near the time of release. Risk level determines the duration of registration and the extent of public disclosure:

• Level 1 (low risk): Registration for 20 years; not listed on the public online registry.
• Level 2 (moderate risk): Lifetime registration with online public listing; may petition for removal after 30 years if not otherwise designated.
• Level 3 (high risk): Lifetime registration, online listing, and community notification.

Registration can affect housing, employment, internet use, and more. Having an experienced attorney guide you through the classification process and seek relief when available is essential.

Our sex crimes attorney represents clients during classification hearings, advocates for lower risk levels, and, when the law allows, files petitions for relief. Attorney Scott Gross helps clients understand their obligations and works to reduce the long-term impact of registration whenever possible.

What to Do if You’re Accused of a Sex Crime

Being accused of a sex crime is overwhelming, and what you do in the first hours and days can shape the entire outcome of your case. Some key steps include:

• Remain silent. Do not speak with law enforcement, the accuser, or anyone else about the allegations without an attorney present. Even casual remarks can be misinterpreted and used against you.
• Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Early legal representation is one of the most important protections you have. An attorney can handle communications with investigators, safeguard your rights, and guide you through the next steps.
• Do not discuss the case with others. Avoid posting online, speaking with friends, or trying to explain yourself. Anything said outside of privileged conversations with your lawyer may be used against you.

At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we respond quickly when someone has been accused. Attorney Scott Gross takes immediate steps to protect clients during questioning, preserve evidence, and begin building a defense. Having a former prosecutor on your side from the very beginning can make a critical difference.

Defense Strategies in New York Sex Crime Cases

Every sex crime case is unique, and the defense must be tailored to the facts. Common strategies may include showing that the accusation is a case of mistaken identity, where someone else was responsible for the alleged conduct. In other situations, accusations may be motivated by jealousy, custody disputes, or personal conflict, and exposing these motives can undermine the credibility of the claim.

Consent is another critical issue in many cases. If both parties willingly engaged in the conduct, proving consent can significantly change the outcome. Similarly, presenting an alibi supported by receipts, witness testimony, or surveillance footage may demonstrate that you were not present when the alleged incident occurred.

At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we carefully review the evidence, interview witnesses, and examine the prosecution’s case to identify the most effective defense. Attorney Scott Gross draws on his background as a former prosecutor to anticipate the state’s arguments and build a defense that protects your rights and challenges the charges against you.

How Does the Prosecution Try to Prove Guilt?

The state must prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. This may involve witness testimony, forensic reports, or digital evidence. A skilled defense lawyer works to challenge the reliability of that evidence and present a strong counter-narrative.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Crime Charges in New York

Can I Be Convicted Without Physical Evidence?

Yes. In New York, testimony alone can be enough for a conviction if the jury finds it credible. A defense lawyer can challenge inconsistencies in testimony and present alternative evidence, such as texts, phone records, or surveillance footage.

What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony Sex Crime?

Misdemeanors generally involve less severe conduct and penalties, such as serving a shorter jail time or probation. Felonies often involve force, minors, or repeat conduct and carry much harsher sentences, including long prison terms and mandatory registration.

Can a Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed Before Trial?

Yes. Charges may be dropped or reduced if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence or if constitutional violations occurred during investigation. Defense lawyers often file motions to dismiss or negotiate resolutions early in the process.

What if There Are No Witnesses To Support My Defense?

Even without eyewitnesses, you may still present evidence such as an alibi, electronic records, or expert testimony. A lawyer can help build a defense that casts doubt on the allegations.

Protect Your Future With a Long Island Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

Facing sex crime charges can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we provide a free consultation so you can discuss your situation confidentially with our legal team.

Whether you are facing criminal charges yourself or supporting a loved one, it is important to act quickly. Navigating the criminal justice system without experienced guidance puts your rights and future at risk. Our firm focuses on criminal law defense and is committed to protecting clients through every stage of the process.

Attorney Scott Gross and our defense team will review the details of your case, explain your options, and develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances. When your freedom and reputation are on the line, having a dedicated legal team on your side can make all the difference.

Call The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., today at 516-500-9068, or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.