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Criminal Defense: NYC Sex Crimes Lawyers
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Last Updated on: 25th February 2025, 09:08 pm
If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’re in the middle of a serious legal matter—possibly one of the most frightening experiences of your life. At Spodek Law Group, we understand how overwhelming sex crime accusations can be. Our law firm is recognized for handling the toughest cases nationwide, with over 50 years of combined experience. We’re here to provide you with the best possible legal representation.
New York and Federal Sex Crimes
Sex crimes in NYC are governed by New York Penal Law Article 130. They range from forcible touching to rape. When allegations cross state lines or involve communications over the internet, federal statutes—such as 18 U.S.C. § 2251 (sexual exploitation of minors) or 18 U.S.C. § 2422 (coercion/enticement)—might come into play. That’s when the Department of Justice steps in.
Regardless of whether your case is state or federal, the consequences can be devastating. In New York, you could face long prison sentences, heavy fines, mandatory registration on the Sex Offender Registry, and collateral damage to your personal and professional life. In federal court, there are often mandatory minimum sentences and strict guidelines judges must consider. Our objective is to defend you at every stage. We focus on getting charges dismissed or reduced, or winning at trial.
State vs. Federal
Sometimes, a sex crime is handled by the District Attorney’s Office; other times, it’s prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Understanding the differences helps us position your case for success.
| Comparison | State Level (NYC) | Federal Level |
|---|---|---|
| Statutory Framework | NY Penal Law §§ 130.00, et seq. | 18 U.S.C. §§ 2251, 2422, 2423, etc. |
| Prosecutors | District Attorney (e.g., Manhattan DA) | U.S. Attorney’s Office |
| Investigative Agencies | NYPD, local detectives | FBI, DHS, ICE (if immigration issues arise) |
| Sentencing Approach | Prison terms vary by felony class (A, B, C, D). SORA registration | U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, mandatory minimums, federal supervised release |
Double jeopardy protects you from facing charges twice in the same jurisdiction. But state and federal prosecutions are treated as separate sovereigns. While it’s rare to face both, we’re prepared for any scenario.
Common Defense Strategies: Detailed Scenarios
At Spodek Law Group, we look for every possible avenue to protect your rights and your future.
- Consent vs. Non-Consent
- Situation: You had a consensual relationship, but the accuser now alleges there was no consent.
- Defense: We demonstrate proof of ongoing text messages, social media interactions, and any other indication that the acts were consensual. We highlight inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements.
- Goal: We aim to cast enough doubt to dismiss the charges or secure a significant reduction.
- Mistaken Identity
- Situation: In a crowded venue, someone claims you committed an unwanted sexual act. However, eyewitness testimonies conflict, and no physical evidence ties you to the crime.
- Defense: Our team cross-examines witnesses to expose flawed or inconsistent recollections. We also look at surveillance footage to confirm or refute your presence.
- Goal: If the prosecution can’t prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, we push for a complete dismissal.
- Illegal Search and Seizure
- Situation: Federal or state investigators seize your electronic devices without a valid warrant. They find potentially incriminating images or messages.
- Defense: We argue that law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights. We file a motion to suppress evidence gained through an unconstitutional search.
- Goal: Evidence deemed inadmissible can cripple the prosecution’s case, leading to a dismissal.
- Entrapment
- Situation: A federal sting operation targets you online, using undercover agents who encourage you to commit a crime you had no intention of committing.
- Defense: We show the government induced the criminal behavior. We review chat logs, agent transcripts, and highlight law enforcement’s role in fostering the conduct.
- Goal: Demonstrate you would not have taken these actions but for the government’s coercion, resulting in charges being dropped or dismissed.
- Mental Health or Incapacity
- Situation: You face allegations, but you have a documented condition affecting your decision-making.
- Defense: We bring in qualified mental health experts, and argue reduced culpability or propose alternatives to incarceration such as treatment programs.
- Goal: Seek sentencing alternatives or lesser charges.
Harsh Penalties and How We Seek to Mitigate Them
We know these cases can carry severe penalties like extended prison time (state or federal), steep fines, and even lifetime registration. We also understand how this jeopardizes employment, housing, and more. Our law firm takes pride in building comprehensive defense strategies. We cover:
- Plea Negotiations: If the prosecution’s case is strong, we sometimes negotiate a lesser charge that avoids sex offender registration or long jail terms.
- Pre-Trial Dismissals: We identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence early. If key elements are missing, we file motions to dismiss.
- Trial: Our attorneys—led by Todd Spodek—have handled cases in tough courts. If trial is your best path, we’re ready to present a powerful defense.
- Post-Trial: If conviction does happen, we explore appeals, motions for relief, or sentencing modifications.
Why Spodek Law Group?
Clients nationwide come to Spodek Law Group because we focus on results. We aren’t a “mill” that takes every client; we prefer building strong relationships that let us go above and beyond. We have an online portal for submitting documents, tracking invoices, and messaging our team, ensuring transparency and open communication.
If you check our media mentions, you’ll see we’ve represented high-profile individuals like Anna Delvey (featured in a 2022 Netflix series) and dealt with notable cases such as the Ghislaine Maxwell mistrial juror controversy. We handle each new client with the same level of care and commitment, whether you’re in the media spotlight or not.
Risk-Free Consultation
We’re available 24/7 because legal trouble doesn’t wait for business hours. Reach out for a risk-free consultation. We’ll discuss your situation, potential defenses, and what’s at stake. From there, we outline a battle plan. We’re known for providing the best possible customer service—and the best possible outcome.
We’re Spodek Law Group. If you need a dedicated NYC sex crimes lawyer, you’re in the right place. Let’s protect your future—together.