New York Attempts To Commit Sexual Offenses Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
An attempt to commit a sexual offense in New York is a serious felony under NY Penal Law Article 110, carrying penalties nearly as severe as the completed crime. If you are charged, you need a New York Attempts To Commit Sexual Offenses Lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Our firm, led by former prosecutor Mr.
What Is an Attempt To Commit a Sexual Offense Under New York Law?
In New York, an attempt to commit a sexual offense is defined under NY Penal Law Article 110. This statute holds that a person is guilty of an attempt when, with intent to commit a specific sexual crime, they engage in conduct that tends to effect the commission of that crime. The law does not require the crime to be completed; the substantial step taken with criminal intent is sufficient for a charge. For example, an attempt to commit rape in the first degree (NY Penal Law § 130.35) is a Class C violent felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the attempt statute, see NY Penal Law Article 110 (official New York State Senate). For court procedures, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for Attempt Charges in Manhattan
Attempt charges for sexual offenses in Manhattan are prosecuted in New York County Supreme Court as felonies. The process begins with an arrest and arraignment. A grand jury indictment is required. The key local procedural fact is that the prosecution must prove both your specific intent to commit the underlying sexual crime and that you took a substantial step toward committing it. Defenses often focus on challenging the evidence of intent or the substantial nature of the act.
- Arrest and processing at a Manhattan precinct.
- Arraignment in New York County Supreme Court for felony charges.
- Grand jury presentation for indictment on the attempt charge.
- Pre-trial motions and hearings, including challenges to evidence of intent.
- Possible plea negotiations or trial preparation.
- Trial or final disposition in Supreme Court.
Potential Penalties for Attempting a Sexual Offense in New York
In New York County (Manhattan), an attempt to commit a sexual offense is typically punished at a level one classification lower than the completed crime, but still as a serious felony with potential prison time, fines, and mandatory Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA) registration.
| Underlying Offense Attempted | Attempt Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rape 1st (Class B Felony) | Attempted Rape 1st (Class C Violent Felony) | 3.5 to 15 years | Up to $15,000 | N/A | Mandatory SORA registration, possible SVP proceedings |
| Criminal Sexual Act 1st (Class B Felony) | Attempted Criminal Sexual Act 1st (Class C Violent Felony) | 3.5 to 15 years | Up to $15,000 | N/A | Mandatory SORA registration, no contact orders |
| Sexual Abuse 1st (Class D Felony) | Attempted Sexual Abuse 1st (Class E Felony) | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | N/A | Mandatory SORA registration |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in New York Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled thousands of criminal matters, developing strategies to defend against serious allegations like attempts to commit sexual offenses. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case and the local court procedures in Manhattan.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While specific results in Manhattan are part of our confidential case files, our systematic approach focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent and the alleged “substantial step” from the earliest stages. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial to secure the best possible outcome during negotiations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Manhattan Sex Crime Defense Team
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via all subway lines, the FDR Drive, and West Side Highway. We are a New York Attempts To Commit Sexual Offenses Lawyer near Manhattan courts, serving neighborhoods including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an “attempt” charge as serious as the completed sex crime in New York?
Yes. An attempt is typically charged one felony class lower than the completed crime but carries severe penalties, including prison and mandatory sex offender registration. The prosecution must prove you had the intent and took a substantial step toward the crime.
What is a “substantial step” under the attempt law?
It depends on the facts. New York law defines it as conduct that strongly corroborates the criminal intent. For a criminal attorney, this is a key defense point—actions that are mere preparation may not qualify. The specific circumstances of your case determine if the state can meet this legal standard.
Can a defense lawyer get an attempt charge reduced or dismissed?
Yes. A skilled defense lawyer can challenge the evidence of intent or argue the acts did not constitute a “substantial step.” Early intervention can lead to reduced charges or dismissal before trial, especially if the prosecution’s case is weak on these essential elements.
Do I need a local criminal court lawyer for an attempt charge in Manhattan?
Yes. You need a criminal court lawyer familiar with New York County Supreme Court judges, prosecutors, and local procedures. Knowledge of how Manhattan courts handle attempt cases and SORA hearings is crucial for building an effective defense strategy from arraignment forward.
What should I do first if charged with an attempt to commit a sexual offense?
First, do not speak to investigators without your attorney. Second, contact a lawyer experienced in criminal charges defense for sex crimes immediately. An attorney can protect your rights during questioning, secure evidence, and begin building your defense against the intent and substantial step allegations.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, see our New York Sex Crime Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters in Manhattan, such as DUI defense and business law. For similar defense in other counties, see our Albany County sex crime lawyer page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific case.