Nassau County Sex Crime Lawyer

Former Prosecutors. 70+ Years of Experience. Your Defense Starts Now.

A sex crime accusation in Nassau County carries consequences that begin before any arrest: professional standing, family relationships, and reputation are all at risk from the moment an investigation opens. At Lerner & Lerner, P.C., Richard Lerner and Kimberly Lerner bring over 70 years of combined criminal law experience to every case, including time spent on the other side as former prosecutors. That background shapes how we read evidence, anticipate the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, and build a defense designed to protect your rights from day one.

We handle all types of sex crime cases with discretion and urgency, and we know Nassau County courts, their procedures, judge preferences, and prosecutorial practices, in ways that matter at every stage of your case.

If you’re facing a sex crime investigation or charges in Nassau County, don’t wait to get legal counsel in your corner. Call Lerner & Lerner, P.C. at (516) 586-0383 today for a confidential consultation.

Why Choose Our Nassau County Sex Crime Lawyers?

Each sex crime allegation is different, but choosing defense counsel with deep prosecutorial and trial experience in Nassau County is a clear advantage. Our team has spent decades negotiating with prosecutors, fighting charges, and crafting defense strategies tailored to how Nassau County courts actually work.

When you work with us, you bring key advantages to your defense:

• Prosecutorial Insight: Because we worked as prosecutors, we understand how Nassau County builds sex crime cases, how forensic evidence is gathered, how digital communications are reviewed, and where cases are most vulnerable to challenge.
• Extensive Experience: Over 70 years of combined criminal law experience across both defense and prosecution in Nassau County and Long Island courts.
• Recognized Counsel: Both Richard and Kimberly Lerner hold the AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and are selected to Super Lawyers. Kimberly also serves as a legal correspondent on MSNBC, CNN, and Fox News.
• Personalized Service: We work directly with you and your family through every stage, answering questions and responding promptly in and out of the courtroom.

Sex crime cases in Nassau County can attract public attention, making discretion a real and practical concern. We’ve handled thousands of cases across the full range of criminal charges, and we understand what’s at stake when the facts are this serious.

Sex Crime Charges We Defend in Nassau County

Under New York Penal Law, sex offenses range from Class B misdemeanors to Class A-II felonies such as predatory sexual assault, with different penalty ranges and New York Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA) consequences attached to each. A conviction may mean incarceration, probation, mandatory SORA registration with the New York Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), fines, and lasting effects on employment and housing. That makes early, thorough defense preparation essential.

We defend clients facing charges that include:

• Rape and sexual assault
• Criminal sexual act
• Forcible touching
• Prostitution and solicitation
• Sexual abuse
• Child pornography offenses
• Failure to register or alleged SORA violations

In every case, we scrutinize police conduct, evidence collection methods, and the statutory defenses available under New York law. Lack of consent is a central element the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt in many sex offense charges, and we examine every aspect of how that evidence was gathered and preserved. Our approach adjusts as new information emerges throughout the case.

From Pre-Arrest Guidance Through SORA Hearings

Sex crime investigations in Nassau County can move quickly. Law enforcement may interview witnesses and move toward an arrest soon after a complaint is filed, which is why contacting us early can give the defense more room to work.

We handle every procedural stage, including:

• Pre-Arrest and Investigation Guidance: Advising on your rights during police contact, questioning, and investigations by Nassau County agencies before any charges are filed.
• Bail and Arraignment Representation: Advocating for reasonable bail or release and preparing you for what to expect at initial court appearances.
• Discovery and Motion Practice: Examining the prosecution’s evidence, pursuing suppression of improperly obtained materials through pretrial motions, and presenting motions to dismiss charges that lack legal foundation.
• Plea Negotiations and Trial Preparation: Pursuing every viable opportunity to reduce or dismiss charges while simultaneously preparing a focused courtroom defense if the case proceeds to trial.
• SORA Hearings: After certain convictions, the court holds a SORA risk-level hearing at which the prosecution presents a Risk Assessment Instrument score based on the offense, criminal history, and other factors. We submit materials and challenge that score to advocate for the lowest possible risk classification. SORA establishes three levels: Level 1 (low risk), Level 2 (moderate risk), and Level 3 (high risk). The level determines both registration duration and whether the registration appears publicly on the DCJS website. Failure to comply with SORA registration requirements is itself a criminal offense, so understanding those obligations from the start matters.

Our prosecutorial background gives us a clear read on how Nassau County handles these cases at each stage, from how judges approach bail to where negotiation opportunities arise before and during trial.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nassau County Sex Crime Defense

Can Sex Crime Charges Be Dismissed in Nassau County?

Yes, in some circumstances. Cases may be dismissed for insufficient evidence, constitutional violations such as an unlawful search or improper interrogation, or successful pretrial suppression motions. Each outcome depends on the specific facts, the evidence gathered, and the applicable law. We examine every case for grounds to challenge charges early.

What Are the Potential Penalties for a Sex Crime Conviction?

Penalties may include incarceration, probation, mandatory SORA registration, and fines, along with lasting consequences for employment, housing, and reputation. The severity depends on the specific charge, its felony or misdemeanor classification under New York Penal Law, and the facts of the case.

How Long Does a Sex Crime Case Take to Resolve?

Timelines vary based on charge complexity, court scheduling, and whether the case resolves through negotiation or proceeds to trial. Cases in Nassau County courts may take several months or considerably longer depending on the circumstances.

Do I Have to Register as a Sex Offender If Convicted?

Certain convictions under New York law require registration with the DCJS under SORA. Registration obligations, risk level, and duration depend on the specific charges and findings at a SORA hearing. Level 1 offenders must register for a minimum of 20 years, while Level 2 and Level 3 offenders are subject to lifetime registration. We advocate for the lowest possible classification and advise on any relief options available under the law.

Speak with a Nassau County Sex Crime Lawyer Today

The decisions made in the earliest days of a sex crime investigation can shape everything that follows. Our team can discuss your situation directly, outline a practical defense plan, and give you honest guidance on your options.

Contact Lerner & Lerner, P.C. at (516) 586-0383 for a confidential consultation with our Nassau County sex crime attorneys.