Sex Crimes Lawyer in Long Island

Aggressive Defense to Protect Your Rights

Being charged with a sex crime can be one of the most frightening experiences of your life. The consequences of a conviction are devastating and life-changing, affecting your ability to live life as you once had.

Our attorney at The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C. knows how terrifying it can be to face sex crime allegations, which is why we fight hard to work toward achieving a favorable result in your case.

When you need an attorney who will fight relentlessly to protect your freedoms, contact our Long Island sex crimes lawyer at (631) 714-7894.

Types of Sex Crimes

Depending on the type and severity of the offense, sex crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

These types of crimes can include:

• Rape
• Indecent exposure
• Lewd conduct
• Prostitution
• Sexual misconduct

Conviction Penalties

Regardless of whether you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor, you could face serious consequences if you are convicted. Penalties include hefty fines, jail time, and registration as a sex offender, which can haunt you for the rest of your life. It may be difficult for you to get a job, rent/buy a place to live, or get into college, as many places conduct background and a conviction will appear on your criminal record.

With so much at stake, it is crucial to hire an attorney who can skillfully handle your case. At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we have over 13 years of legal experience and have successfully defended individuals facing a variety of charges. Our Long Island sex crimes lawyer knows that there are two sides to every story and allegations against you could be the result of various factors, including malicious intentions, misunderstandings, or mistaken identity. When you retain our services, we will discuss your circumstances with you and build a strong legal defense for your case.

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

Being accused of a sex crime can be overwhelming, and your first steps are crucial. Here’s what you should do immediately:

Remain Silent:

It’s important to avoid talking to law enforcement or the accuser without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you, even if it’s said in the heat of the moment. Law enforcement may interpret your words as an admission of guilt.

Contact an Attorney:

As soon as you’re accused, contact an experienced sex crimes attorney. A lawyer can protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and ensure that any statements you make are carefully considered.

Avoid Discussing the Case:

Don’t discuss the allegations with friends, family, or the media. Even well-meaning conversations can be used against you. Your lawyer will help you communicate only what is necessary.

Importance of Not Self-Incriminating

Anything you say about the incident, even in casual conversation, can be used against you in court. Here’s why it’s crucial to remain silent:

Misunderstandings or Misinterpretations:

A statement made under stress could be misinterpreted by law enforcement, and they may not have the full context of your words.

Incriminating Statements:

Even a seemingly innocent comment could be twisted to suggest guilt. For instance, saying, “I didn’t mean to hurt them,” might be interpreted as an admission of wrongdoing.

By staying silent and contacting your attorney, you protect yourself from self-incrimination.

Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges

There are several possible defenses your lawyer can use in your case. Some of the most common defenses include:

Mistaken Identity:

Sometimes, individuals are falsely accused due to mistaken identity. For example, a person may confuse you with someone else. Your attorney can present evidence to prove you were not the perpetrator.

False Allegations:

In some cases, accusations are made out of revenge, jealousy, or other personal motives. Your lawyer will work to uncover any evidence that shows the allegations are fabricated or motivated by ill intent.

Lack of Consent:

The issue of consent is crucial in many sex crime cases. If the accuser consented to the sexual activity, your lawyer can help prove that consent was given, which can lead to the charges being dismissed.

Alibi Evidence:

If you have proof that you weren’t at the scene of the crime, such as receipts, witnesses, or surveillance footage, this can be a strong defense. Your attorney will work to gather evidence that supports your alibi and proves your innocence.

Sex Offender Registration and Its Impact

If convicted of a sex crime, one of the consequences may be sex offender registration. This means that your name and personal information will be publicly accessible in databases. Here’s how it can impact your life:

Daily Life:

Being on the sex offender registry can cause significant challenges. You may be subject to restrictions, such as living near schools, parks, or other places where children gather.

Employment and Housing:

Many employers and landlords conduct background checks. A conviction and sex offender status can make it difficult to find employment or secure housing.

How to Challenge Sex Offender Registration

Requesting Removal:

In some cases, you may be able to petition for removal from the registry after a certain period, particularly if you’ve successfully rehabilitated yourself and have demonstrated that you are no longer a threat.

Reduction of Reporting Requirements:

In some situations, your attorney may be able to reduce the frequency of required check-ins or reporting based on the nature of your offense, showing that you have complied with the necessary conditions.

Being accused of a sex crime is serious, but there are ways to defend yourself and challenge the consequences, including sex offender registration. It’s critical to take the right steps immediately, secure legal representation, and explore all available defenses to protect your future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I be convicted of a sex crime if the accuser has no physical evidence?

Yes, a conviction is still possible even without physical evidence. However, your defense lawyer can challenge the credibility of the accuser and explore other types of evidence, such as witness testimony, text messages, or surveillance footage, to support your case.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony sex crime charge?

Misdemeanor sex crimes generally carry less severe penalties, such as shorter jail sentences or fines, while felony charges can result in longer prison terms and more severe consequences, including mandatory sex offender registration.

How does the court determine if someone is guilty of a sex crime?

In a sex crime case, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. This can involve presenting evidence such as testimonies, physical evidence, and expert reports. Your defense attorney will work to challenge the evidence and raise doubts about your guilt.

Can I avoid sex offender registration if I’m convicted?

In some cases, it may be possible to avoid sex offender registration through plea deals, diversion programs, or by successfully challenging the charges. Your attorney will work to explore all possible legal avenues to minimize the long-term consequences of a conviction.

How can I prove my innocence if there are no witnesses?

Even without witnesses, your defense attorney can gather other types of evidence, such as surveillance footage, phone records, or alibi testimony, to support your claim of innocence. The key is to create a narrative that casts doubt on the allegations.

Can a sex crime charge be dropped before going to trial?

Yes, charges can be dropped before trial if the prosecution finds insufficient evidence to support the case. Your lawyer can file motions to dismiss or negotiate with the prosecution to have the charges reduced or dropped entirely.

How long does it take for a sex crime case to go to trial?

The time it takes to go to trial can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule. It can take several months to a year for a sex crime case to reach trial, but your attorney will keep you informed throughout the process.

We’re Available When You Need Us

At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we know the ins and outs of the legal system and can skillfully navigate your case. We will help you understand the charges you are facing, the consequences of a conviction, and your legal options for working toward getting charges reduced or dropped. Recognizing that facing allegations can be worrisome, our team is accessible 24/7 to provide answers to your questions.