Criminal Defense Attorney Defending You Against Sex Crime Charges

More than perhaps any type of criminal charge, sex crime charges can derail your life. A sex crime conviction will come with possible jail time and fines, but sex crime convictions also involve the sex crime registry requirement. Being placed on the sex crime registry means that anyone can see that you have been convicted as a sex offender. This will destroy your reputation in the workforce, in the housing market and in your day-to-day life. It is critical to fight back against sex crime charges aggressively to avoid being listed in the sex offender registry.

Louis C. Mussari, Criminal Defense Lawyer in Buffalo, New York, is here to assist. With nearly a decade of experience as a criminal prosecutor and as a skilled defense attorney, he can help you navigate the legal complexities to steer clear of incarceration and sex offender registration. While outcomes vary by case, collaborating with Louis C. Mussari, Attorney at Law, ensures you’ll have every opportunity to pursue the best possible resolution.

Serious Criminal Charges

While there are some sex crime charges that are filed as misdemeanors, the vast majority of sex crime charges are serious felonies, many of which involve up to 20 years of a hard time in prison, the sex offender registry and other unsavory consequences.

Get the help you need from attorney Louis C. Mussari, who can provide a strong, strategic defense against sex crime charges that include:

Rape
Sexual assault
Sexual misconduct
Forcible touching
Criminal sexual acts
Sexual abuse/aggravated sexual abuse
Child molestation
Course of sexual conduct against a child (which involves two or more instances)
Child pornography
Predatory sexual assault
Facilitating a sexual offense with a controlled substance
Prostitution/solicitation

As a criminal prosecutor for nearly a decade in Erie County, Mr. Mussari knows how these cases are handled. He has a strategic advantage in knowing how to defeat the prosecutor’s methods because he has used those same methods himself.

Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges

In cases involving sexual offenses against adults, consent plays a pivotal role. If the activity was consensual, no crime has been committed. However, it’s essential to recognize that minors cannot legally consent.

Alongside consent, defenses against these charges may involve challenging the credibility of witnesses or the alleged victim. This can include addressing potential tampering with child victims or witnesses, such as coaching them on courtroom behavior and testimony. Legal challenges may also target forensic evidence, illegal search and seizure, and establishing intent.

When facing such charges, Buffalo Criminal Defense Attorney Louis C. Mussari and his legal team are dedicated to exploring every avenue for defense. They meticulously analyze the case to identify viable strategies for protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome.

Sex Crimes – Legal Overview

The tabs below contain some additional legal information on sex offenses in the State of New York.

Statutes
Possible Penalties
Defense Strategies

At Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we possess a nuanced understanding of state sex crime statutes, ensuring that you receive compassionate and expert legal representation. Our in-depth knowledge allows us to navigate the intricacies of your case with precision, providing you the best chance for a favorable outcome. We are committed to standing with you, ensuring that you are not alone during this challenging time.

Penal Law Article 130: Defines various criminal sex offenses including sexual misconduct, rape, sexual abuse, forcible touching, female genital mutilation, and facilitating a sex offense with a controlled substance.
Executive Law §631(1): Allows victims of sexual offenses to report the crime within a reasonable time to be eligible for an award from the Crime Victims Compensation Board (CVB).
Civil Practice Law §4510(b): Recognizes confidential communication between a rape crisis counselor and a client.
Penal Law §130.90: Provides that committing a sex offense by using illegal drugs is a D level felony.

Criminal Procedure Law §160.45: Forbids requiring a victim of a sexual assault to undergo a polygraph test or psychological stress evaluator examination.
Criminal Procedure Law §§60.42, 60.43: Bars the introduction of reputation evidence about the sexual history and conduct of the victim unless specific conditions are met.
Correction Law Article 6-C (§168 et seq.): Requires certain offenders to register with the Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).

Note: Please be aware that relevant statutes may change and are subject to interpretation on a case-by-case basis after an in-depth review of your situation.

At Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we bring years of specialized experience in sex crime cases to your defense, treating you with the dignity and compassion you deserve. Our deep understanding of the complexities surrounding these sensitive issues allows us to tailor a defense strategy that maximizes your chances for a favorable outcome. We are committed to standing beside you, ensuring that you are not alone during this challenging period in your life.

Rape and Sexual Misconduct

First-degree rape: Class B felony
Second-degree rape: Class D felony
Third-degree rape: Class E felony
Sexual misconduct: Class A misdemeanor

Aggravated Sexual Abuse

Ranges from Class E to Class B felony, depending on the severity and injuries involved.

Sexual Abuse

First-degree: Class D felony
Second- and third-degree: Misdemeanor

Forcible Touching

Class A misdemeanor

Felony Sentencing

Class B felony: 5 to 25 years in prison
Class C felony: 3.5 to 15 years in prison
Class D felony: 2 to 7 years in prison
Class E felony: 1.5 to 4 years in prison

Enhanced Penalties

For repeat, persistent, and predatory offenders, penalties can be significantly increased, even up to a life sentence for predatory acts.

Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA)

Requires most convicted individuals to register with the state, lasting a minimum of 20 years or for life for high-risk offenders.

Note: Please be aware that possible penalties can vary significantly and are determined on a case-by-case basis after an in-depth review of your situation.

At Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we don’t just represent you; we build a comprehensive sex crime defense strategy designed to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Leveraging our extensive experience, we meticulously analyze every facet of your case to tailor a defense that meets your unique needs. We are here to guide you through this difficult journey, ensuring that you are empowered every step of the way.

Complete Innocence

This defense argues that you were not present or had no sexual contact with the alleged victim. Alibis and DNA evidence could be used to support this claim.

Consent

In many cases, proving that the victim consented to the sexual conduct can be a viable defense. However, this is not applicable if the alleged victim is a minor.

Insanity/Mental Incapacity

If you can prove that you lacked the mental capacity to understand the criminal nature of your actions, this could serve as a complete defense or result in leniency.

Motivation of the Accuser

Sometimes, false accusations are made for personal reasons, such as revenge or extortion. Proving the accuser’s motivation could be a defense.

Suppression of Evidence

If evidence was obtained illegally or mishandled, it could be suppressed and excluded from the trial.

Taint

This defense is used when child witnesses are involved, arguing that someone has influenced the child’s responses to questions.

Note: It’s important to note that defense strategies may change and are tailored on a case-by-case basis after an in-depth review of your specific situation.

Statutes

Penal Law Article 130: Defines various criminal sex offenses including sexual misconduct, rape, sexual abuse, forcible touching, female genital mutilation, and facilitating a sex offense with a controlled substance.
Executive Law §631(1): Allows victims of sexual offenses to report the crime within a reasonable time to be eligible for an award from the Crime Victims Compensation Board (CVB).
Civil Practice Law §4510(b): Recognizes confidential communication between a rape crisis counselor and a client.
Penal Law §130.90: Provides that committing a sex offense by using illegal drugs is a D level felony.

Criminal Procedure Law §160.45: Forbids requiring a victim of a sexual assault to undergo a polygraph test or psychological stress evaluator examination.
Criminal Procedure Law §§60.42, 60.43: Bars the introduction of reputation evidence about the sexual history and conduct of the victim unless specific conditions are met.
Correction Law Article 6-C (§168 et seq.): Requires certain offenders to register with the Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).

Note: Please be aware that relevant statutes may change and are subject to interpretation on a case-by-case basis after an in-depth review of your situation.

Possible Penalties

Rape and Sexual Misconduct

First-degree rape: Class B felony
Second-degree rape: Class D felony
Third-degree rape: Class E felony
Sexual misconduct: Class A misdemeanor

Aggravated Sexual Abuse

Ranges from Class E to Class B felony, depending on the severity and injuries involved.

Sexual Abuse

First-degree: Class D felony
Second- and third-degree: Misdemeanor

Forcible Touching

Class A misdemeanor

Felony Sentencing

Class B felony: 5 to 25 years in prison
Class C felony: 3.5 to 15 years in prison
Class D felony: 2 to 7 years in prison
Class E felony: 1.5 to 4 years in prison

Enhanced Penalties

For repeat, persistent, and predatory offenders, penalties can be significantly increased, even up to a life sentence for predatory acts.

Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA)

Requires most convicted individuals to register with the state, lasting a minimum of 20 years or for life for high-risk offenders.

Note: Please be aware that possible penalties can vary significantly and are determined on a case-by-case basis after an in-depth review of your situation.

Defense Strategies

Complete Innocence

This defense argues that you were not present or had no sexual contact with the alleged victim. Alibis and DNA evidence could be used to support this claim.

Consent

In many cases, proving that the victim consented to the sexual conduct can be a viable defense. However, this is not applicable if the alleged victim is a minor.

Insanity/Mental Incapacity

If you can prove that you lacked the mental capacity to understand the criminal nature of your actions, this could serve as a complete defense or result in leniency.

Motivation of the Accuser

Sometimes, false accusations are made for personal reasons, such as revenge or extortion. Proving the accuser’s motivation could be a defense.

Suppression of Evidence

If evidence was obtained illegally or mishandled, it could be suppressed and excluded from the trial.

Taint

This defense is used when child witnesses are involved, arguing that someone has influenced the child’s responses to questions.

Note: It’s important to note that defense strategies may change and are tailored on a case-by-case basis after an in-depth review of your specific situation.

Testimonials

    
 
 
        
   Mike Gherman 
 2024-06-03
 
 
  I called Louis  Mussari Saturday June 1 told him about what was going on with my Daughter when she came back in from Canada I have to tell you he was on it right away and got released this after noon . Got to say he was the best..
  
 
       
   Jameel Williams 
 2024-05-02
 
 
  Mr Mussari, is probably the best attorney in Erie county. Very understanding to the inconsistencies of the justice system. He will take all the time necessary to explain the law and will work extremely hard to win the case. He is fearless in the court room and is not a attorney who is trying to make a quick dollar. That right there speaks volumes.
  
 
       
   Danielle Jones 
 2024-04-02
 
 
  The best Attorney I have ever encountered!! Very caring about your case and will fight his hardest to defend you and your rights!! He is very knowledgeable and reliable! The only time he doesn’t/cant answer is when he is in court, but gets right back to you asap! I would most definitely recommend choosing Mr.Mussari to defend anyone!
  
 
       
   Sonny 
 2024-04-02
 
 
  Great lawyer , u dnt deal with no secretary the number is a direct line to him , he always answers an if he cnt he will text a let u know . Always call u with any information he has on ur situation ,straight an up front with u , I would highly recommend him , he will go to hard for u
  
 
       
   erica loster 
 2024-03-06
 
 
  Louis Mussari was informative and knowledgeable of the court system and the court process told us trust the process and him and we did and it turned out great I would recommend them for all criminal cases
  
 
       
   Marjorie Baker 
 2024-01-25
 
 
  Attorney Mussari is a kind, caring, attentive and knowledgeable lawyer.
He always answered our phone calls answering all questions we had.
With his knowledge of the law and attention to all details he achieved the best possible outcome.
You were kind and informative with the client who is grateful and appreciative of your treatment of and interaction with them.
I cried tears of joy at hearing the verdict. I couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome.
Thank you  so very much.
I would highly recommend you to anyone needing your services.
  
 
       
   Angelica michell 
 2024-01-08
 
 
  Mr. Mussari is not only an attorney he is a kind caring person that will drop what he is doing to answer a call and your questions. Mr. Mussari will not stop his fight until you are satisfied and will get you the best results there is and even better.
  
 
       
   Ya Moms 
 2023-12-01
 
 
  Best lawyer ever actually goes the extra length For you even if it’s 1-100 cases he has. Got my case dismissed because he actually went thought every Sanrio possible.I promise you want him representing you at all cost. Hell never give up on you he’ll keep fighting until he can’t anymore
  
 
       
   Lui. 
 2023-11-10
 
 
  Mr. Mussari guided us, took care of our case with rigor, assertiveness, dedication and not to mention the special “peace of mind” for having Mr. Mussari on every step of the way. At the end, a fantastic result. He always returned our calls almost immediately. He is clear, direct, does not cut corners, and extremely focused on the best results. I could not be more grateful; I am honored to recommend Mr. Mussari. All the best Mr. Mussari and God bless you for all you have done for our family.

Ask Yourself: Can You Afford Not To Call?

The decisions you make in the next days and weeks are critical. Will you get to keep living your life or will spend time in jail, pay thousands of dollars in fines, and suffer consequences for employment, education and where you live? Make the wise choice and call Louis C. Mussari, Attorney at Law, at 716-430-2147.

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Sex Offenses

Criminal Defense Attorney Defending You Against Sex Crime Charges

Serious Criminal Charges

Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges

Sex Crimes – Legal Overview

Criminal Defense Attorney Louis C. Mussari

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Testimonials

Ask Yourself: Can You Afford Not To Call?

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