New York Sexual Extortion Lawyer | SRIS, P.C.
New York Sexual Extortion Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Sexual extortion, often called sextortion, is a serious felony under New York law, prosecuted under statutes like Penal Law § 135.60 (Coercion) and § 155.05 (Larceny). A conviction can mean years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a New York Sexual Extortion Lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is Sexual Extortion Under New York Law?
Sexual extortion involves using threats to compel someone to engage in a sexual act or provide sexually explicit images. It is not a single statute but a pattern of conduct prosecuted under multiple laws. The core is coercion for a sexual purpose.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Key statutes used include New York Penal Law Article 135 (coercion and kidnapping) and Article 155 (larceny). For example, Penal Law § 135.60 defines Coercion in the first degree, a Class D felony, which can apply when a person compels another to engage in sexual conduct by instilling a fear of criminal accusations. The law is complex and charges often overlap.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s coercion statutes, see NY Penal Law § 135.60 (official New York State Senate). For court procedures and information, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
How Sexual Extortion Cases Are Handled in New York County
In Manhattan, these cases are typically indicted by a grand jury and heard in New York County Supreme Court, which handles felonies. Prosecutors often pursue multiple charges to increase pressure for a plea. The process is aggressive from the start.
- Initial Investigation: Law enforcement, often a specialized cyber unit, gathers digital evidence. You may not know you are under investigation until an arrest.
- Arrest and Arraignment: You will be formally charged and arraigned in Criminal Court before the case moves to Supreme Court for felony proceedings.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment, moving the case to Supreme Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, challenge the charges, or dismiss the case based on procedural errors.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The District Attorney’s office may offer a plea deal. If no acceptable offer is made, your case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing and SORA: If convicted, sentencing follows. A conviction for a sex offense will also trigger a Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA) risk level hearing.
Potential Penalties for Sexual Extortion in New York
In New York County, sexual extortion charges can lead to lengthy prison terms, hefty fines, and mandatory sex offender registration, depending on the specific statutes charged.
| Charge (Sample) | Classification | Prison | Fine | Registration | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coercion 1st (PL § 135.65) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Possible (if sexual act compelled) | Protective orders, loss of professional licenses |
| Larceny by Extortion (PL § 155.05) | Class E Felony (value under $1,000) to Class B Felony (over $1 million) | 1.3 to 25 years | Varies | Possible | Restitution, civil liability |
| Unlawful Surveillance (PL § 250.45) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Yes | Forfeiture of devices |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we build defenses without limitation, scrutinizing every detail of the prosecution’s digital evidence and witness statements. We understand the severe personal and professional stakes of a sexual extortion accusation.
Our Approach to Your Case
We begin by securing all digital evidence and conducting a parallel private investigation. We immediately challenge the legality of any searches or seizures. We work with digital forensic experts to analyze metadata and communication logs, often finding inconsistencies in the accuser’s story or proving a lack of criminal intent. Our goal is to get charges reduced or dismissed before trial. If the case proceeds, we are prepared to defend you aggressively in court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our New York Sexual Extortion Law Firm
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We represent individuals throughout Manhattan, 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 | Local: (838)-292-0003 — Meetings By Appointment Only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
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Buffalo, NY 14202
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sexual extortion a federal crime?
Yes. It can be prosecuted federally under 18 U.S.C. § 875(d) (extortion via interstate communications) and other statutes, especially if it crosses state lines or involves the internet. You could face charges in both state and federal court.
What are common defenses to a sexual extortion charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of intent to threaten, the communication was part of a consensual agreement, the evidence was obtained through an illegal search, or false accusation. An experienced New York Sexual Extortion Attorney can identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
It depends on the specific conviction. If you are convicted of a defined “sex offense” or a crime with a sexual element, a SORA hearing will determine your risk level and registration period, which can range from 20 years to life.
Can the case be dismissed before trial?
Yes. A skilled lawyer can file pre-trial motions to suppress key evidence or dismiss charges due to lack of probable cause, statute of limitations, or procedural errors. Success depends on the specific weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
What should I do if I am contacted by police?
Politely decline to answer questions and state you wish to speak with an attorney. Do not explain, justify, or give your side of the story. Contact a New York Sexual Extortion Lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you.
Related Legal Information
If you need assistance with other matters, our firm also handles business law, civil litigation, and DUI defense in Manhattan. For more information on sex crimes defense across New York, visit our New York sex crime lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Albany County and Broome County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.