A sexual assault allegation can put your freedom, career, reputation, and future at risk. If you have been arrested, contacted by detectives, or believe you are under investigation, speaking with a Brooklyn sexual assault defense attorney as early as possible can help protect your rights. At The Fast Law Firm, we defend clients throughout Brooklyn and Kings County from investigation through trial. Our former state and federal prosecutors begin building your defense immediately by preserving evidence and developing a strategy tailored to your case.
Why Choose The Fast Law Firm for Your Brooklyn Sexual Assault Defense?
Sex offense cases often turn on witness credibility, digital evidence, forensic findings, and the earliest investigative decisions. We prepare every case as though it will go to trial. Our attorneys regularly represent clients in Kings County courts and understand how local prosecutors investigate and litigate serious sex offense cases.
Clients choose The Fast Law Firm because we offer:
- Former state and federal prosecutors who understand how sex crime cases are investigated and charged.
- Trial-tested representation in serious criminal cases, including favorable verdicts and dismissals in sex crime matters.*
- Immediate action to preserve evidence, review digital records, and investigate the allegations.
- Direct access to your attorney throughout your case.
- Discreet representation that respects the sensitive nature of these allegations while protecting your rights.
*Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
What Is Considered Sexual Assault Under New York Law?
Although “sexual assault” is a common term, New York law charges these cases under Article 130 of the Penal Law. Depending on the allegations, charges may include:
- Rape
- Sexual abuse
- Forcible touching
- Sexual misconduct
- Aggravated sexual abuse
Many cases involve disputes over consent, identity, or witness credibility. Effective September 1, 2024, New York revised its sex offense laws by consolidating several offenses under the rape statutes, including conduct previously charged as criminal sexual act.
What Penalties Can Sexual Assault Charges Carry?
Penalties depend on the charge but can extend well beyond incarceration. For example, sexual abuse in the first degree is a Class D violent felony punishable by up to seven years in prison, while rape in the first degree is a Class B violent felony carrying up to 25 years.
A conviction may also result in:
- Jail or state prison
- Significant fines
- Registration under New York’s Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA), which may last 20 years or for life, depending on the offender’s risk level
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Loss of employment or professional licenses
Because these consequences can affect your future long after a criminal case ends, obtaining legal representation as early as possible is important.
What Should You Do If Detectives Contact You?
Detectives with the NYPD Special Victims Division may contact you before an arrest to obtain a statement or gather additional evidence. Anything you say during an investigation may later be used by prosecutors. Before answering questions, speak with a criminal defense attorney.
If detectives contact you:
- Do not contact the complaining witness.
- Do not delete text messages, emails, photographs, or social media communications.
- Do not discuss the allegations with anyone other than your attorney.
Taking these steps can help protect your rights and preserve evidence that may be important to your defense.
How Do We Build a Defense Against Sexual Assault Charges?
We independently review the evidence, examine how the investigation was conducted, determine whether evidence was lawfully obtained, and evaluate how the Kings County District Attorney’s Office intends to prove the charges.
Depending on the circumstances, we may:
- Examine witness statements for inconsistencies.
- Review forensic and DNA evidence.
- Analyze text messages, emails, and other digital communications.
- Challenge unlawful searches or improperly obtained statements.
- Seek dismissal or suppression of evidence when supported by the facts.
- Negotiate from a position of trial readiness when appropriate.
Careful preparation often creates opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s case before trial.
Will My Case Go to Trial?
Many sexual assault cases are resolved before trial, while others proceed to a jury when prosecutors believe the evidence supports a conviction.
Whether your case proceeds to trial depends on factors such as:
- The strength of the prosecution’s evidence
- Witness credibility
- Available forensic or digital evidence
- Constitutional issues involving searches or statements
- Your goals and available legal options
We will explain your options throughout the process and recommend a strategy based on your circumstances.
Speak With a Brooklyn Sexual Assault Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing sexual assault allegations in Brooklyn or anywhere in Kings County, early legal representation can make a meaningful difference. Contact The Fast Law Firm for a confidential consultation. We will evaluate your case, explain your options, and protect your rights at every stage of the criminal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can prosecutors continue the case if the accuser wants to drop the charges?
Yes. In New York, criminal charges are brought by the prosecution, not the complaining witness. Even if an accuser wants the case dismissed, the district attorney may continue prosecuting if sufficient evidence exists.
Will my arrest become public?
Criminal court proceedings are generally public, and certain arrest information may be publicly available. We can advise you about your options for protecting your interests where the law permits.
Can I be charged without DNA or other physical evidence?
Yes. Some sexual assault cases rely primarily on witness testimony, electronic communications, or other evidence. The absence of physical evidence does not automatically prevent criminal charges.
