New York Sexual Solicitation Of A Minor Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Sexual solicitation of a minor is a serious felony in New York under Penal Law § 130.96, carrying severe penalties. If you are facing these charges in New York County (Manhattan), you need a defense team with deep experience in sex crime cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is Sexual Solicitation of a Minor in New York?
In New York, the crime of sexual solicitation of a minor is defined under Penal Law § 130.96. This statute makes it illegal for a person 18 years of age or older to solicit, request, command, importune, or otherwise attempt to cause a child less than 17 years old to engage in sexual conduct. The law is designed to protect minors from predatory behavior, and the charge can apply even if no physical contact occurs. The prosecution must prove you knowingly attempted to engage a minor in a sexual act.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to New York Penal Law § 130.96 (official NY Senate site). Court procedures and information can be found at the New York County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for Sex Crime Charges in Manhattan
Sexual solicitation of a minor cases in Manhattan typically begin in New York County Supreme Court, which handles felony matters. The process is initiated by a grand jury indictment. A key local procedural fact is the application of New York’s “rape shield” law, which limits the introduction of a victim’s past sexual history. The court also conducts a Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA) risk assessment hearing prior to sentencing to determine your registration level.
- Arrest and Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea in Supreme Court.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The prosecution presents evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment for the felony charge.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to challenge evidence, such as the admissibility of electronic communications.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer engages with the District Attorney’s office to seek a reduction or favorable plea agreement.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in Supreme Court.
- SORA Hearing: If convicted, a separate hearing is held to determine your sex offender risk level and registration requirements.
Potential Penalties for Sexual Solicitation of a Minor
In New York County (Manhattan), sexual solicitation of a minor is a Class E felony carrying a potential state prison sentence and mandatory sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual Solicitation of a Minor (PL § 130.96) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years in state prison | Up to $5,000 | N/A | Mandatory SORA registration (min. 20 years), possible probation, protective orders. |
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 firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We approach each case with the understanding that a charge for sexual solicitation of a minor can upend your life, and we are committed to providing a diligent, case-specific defense.
Our Approach to Your Case
Our defense strategy begins with a thorough investigation of the allegations. We scrutinize all evidence, including online chats, text messages, and witness statements, for constitutional violations or inconsistencies. We explore potential defenses, such as lack of intent, entrapment, or mistaken identity regarding the minor’s age. Our goal is to seek a dismissal or reduction of charges before trial. If your case proceeds, we prepare a vigorous defense focused on challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every stage.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. | New York Location
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (838) 292-0003
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients at courts throughout New York County (Manhattan). We are accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all major subway lines. We provide legal support to 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. If you need a New York Sexual Solicitation Of A Minor Law Firm, contact us for a confidential case review.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “solicitation” mean under this law?
Yes. Solicitation includes asking, commanding, urging, or trying to persuade a minor to engage in sexual conduct. This can occur through text messages, online chats, social media, or in-person communication, even if no meeting takes place.
Is this always a felony charge?
Yes. In New York, sexual solicitation of a minor under Penal Law § 130.96 is always charged as a Class E felony, which is the least severe felony level but still carries prison time and mandatory sex offender registration.
What if I didn’t know the person was a minor?
It depends. The law requires the prosecution to prove you knew the person was under 17, or were reckless in not knowing. A defense based on a reasonable mistake of age is difficult but may be possible depending on the specific facts and circumstances of your interaction.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Yes. A conviction for PL § 130.96 triggers mandatory registration under New York’s Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA). The duration is a minimum of 20 years, and the public can access certain information on the registry.
What are common defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include entrapment by law enforcement, lack of criminal intent, factual impossibility, and constitutional violations like illegal search and seizure of electronic evidence. An experienced New York Sexual Solicitation Of A Minor Attorney can evaluate which defenses apply to your case.
Related Legal Information
For more information on related legal matters in New York County, you may find these resources useful: New York Sex Crime Lawyer, Albany County Sex Crime Lawyer, or New York County Business Lawyer.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding sexual solicitation of a minor charges.