Sex with a Minor Lawyer NYC
New York Statutory Rape Laws
Sex with a minor, also known as statutory rape, is a law that assumes that any sexual act a minor engages in is considered to be coercive, because individuals under the age of consent of 17 and thus cannot legally consent to sex with an adult. If you have been charged with having sex with a minor, consider speaking with a Queens criminal defense lawyer at Musa-Obregon Law PC as soon as possible to determine how best to proceed.
These cases can be particularly complex because the two parties may have been involved in a romantic relationship, or the minor could have even initiated the sexual act. In some cases, the minor may have even stated that he or she was of age. Looking into every aspect of a statutory rape case is crucial if your attorney is to build a compelling case on your behalf. To learn more about the Queens criminal defense firm and how charges or allegations of this kind can be challenged, call to schedule a confidential review of your case.
We advocate on behalf of individuals throughout Queens, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan, Rockland County and Westchester County.
What is Statutory Rape in NY?
Under New York state law, it is a crime for an adult to have sex with a minor who is younger than 17. It is considered statutory rape even if there is consent.
The possible penalties you can face for statutory rape in New York include:
- First degree rape: class B felony punishable by five to 25 years in prison
- Second degree rape: class D felony punishable by up to seven years in prison
- Third degree rape: class E felony punishable by up to four years in prison
- First degree criminal sexual act: class B felony punishable by five to 25 years in prison
- Second degree criminal sexual act: class D felony punishable by up to seven years in prison
- Third degree criminal sexual act: class E felony punishable by up to four years in prison
- First degree sexual abuse: class D felony punishable by up to seven years in prison
- Second degree sexual abuse: class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail
- Third degree sexual abuse: class B misdemeanor punishable by up to three months in jail
- Sexual misconduct: class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail
What are the penalties for statutory rape?
Statutory rape penalties can vary widely depending on some key factors. If the offender is over 21 years of age and engages in sexual intercourse with a minor who is less than 17 years of age, then this is considered third degree rape and can be accompanied by a prison term up to four years. A second degree rape charge can be imposed if the accused is over 18 years of age and the victim is less than 15 years old, and those convicted may face up to seven years in prison. First degree rape carries a prison sentence up to 35 years and is reserved for those offenders who engage in sexual intercourse with a child less than 11 years old, or a child less than 13 years old if the offender is over 18 years old.
Talk to a NYC Sex Crime Attorney Today
The criminal charge of sex with a minor can be a confusing and difficult time for young individuals who may be engaged in sexual relationships with significant others who are younger than they are. In some cases, parents of the minor may condone the relationship until a time of their choosing when they decide to press charges. Musa-Obregon Law PC believes that the accused are entitled to a strong defense from an experienced professional and can help those charged to receive the best representation possible. Call today to discuss your case.