In Washington County, statutory rape under NY Penal Law Article 130 carries severe penalties including potential sex offender registration. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Washington County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense strategy for these charges. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Washington County Criminal Court | NY Penal Law § 130.25 (official New York State Senate)
Statutory rape in New York is defined under NY Penal Law Article 130 as sexual intercourse with a person under the age of consent (17 years old in New York). The law categorizes these offenses based on the age of the victim and the age of the defendant. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Washington County understands that these charges do not require proof of force or lack of consent — the victim’s age alone establishes the crime. New York law distinguishes between rape in the third degree (victim under 17, defendant 21 or older) and second degree (victim under 15, defendant 18 or older). A sexual assault defense lawyer Washington County can explain how these classifications affect potential penalties and defense options.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to these sensitive cases. Mr. Sris personally handles complex sex crimes matters, drawing on his background as a former prosecutor to build strong defense strategies.
Key legal resources for statutory rape cases in Washington County:
- NY Penal Law § 130.25 (Rape in the Third Degree) — official New York State Legislature
- Washington County Supreme Court — official New York Courts website
Washington County Criminal Court handles misdemeanor sex offenses, while Washington County Supreme Court Criminal Term handles felony statutory rape charges. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most non-violent offenses, but statutory rape charges may still involve bail considerations depending on the specific allegations.
- Initial Arrest or Summons: You will receive a desk appearance ticket (DAT) or be arrested. Contact a Statutory Rape Lawyer Washington County immediately.
- Arraignment: First court appearance within 24 hours. Your lawyer will argue for release on recognizance or conditions.
- Discovery Phase: The prosecution must share evidence including digital communications, witness statements, and forensic reports.
- Motion Practice: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural violations.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Evaluate plea offers or prepare for trial. ACD (Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal) is generally not available for sex offenses.
In Washington County, statutory rape carries penalties ranging from probation to life in prison depending on the degree of the offense and the ages involved.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rape 3rd Degree (victim under 17, defendant 21+) | Class E Felony | 1-4 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Sex offender registration (10 years) |
| Rape 2nd Degree (victim under 15, defendant 18+) | Class D Felony | 2-7 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Sex offender registration (20 years) |
| Rape 1st Degree (forcible compulsion or victim under 11) | Class B Felony | 5-25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Sex offender registration (life) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating his ability to effect change at the legislative level. For sex crimes cases in Washington County, our team brings former prosecutorial experience to every defense strategy.
SRIS actively practices in Washington County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our New York location serves clients at Washington County courts. The NY office is accessible via I-87, I-90, and I-787. We serve Fort Edward, Hudson Falls, Greenwich, Cambridge, Granville, Salem, Whitehall, and Kingsbury.
Looking for a Statutory Rape Lawyer Washington County near you? We serve clients throughout Washington County and the Capital District.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Does New York have a Romeo and Juliet law for statutory rape?
Yes. New York’s close-in-age exemption applies when the defendant is under 21 and the victim is at least 14. The defense is available for rape in the third degree only. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Washington County can evaluate whether this defense applies to your case.
What is the age of consent in New York?
17 years old. Anyone under 17 cannot legally consent to sexual intercourse in New York. This applies regardless of whether the minor appeared older or verbally consented. A sexual assault defense lawyer Washington County can explain the specific charges that may apply.
Can a statutory rape charge be dismissed in Washington County?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if the prosecution cannot prove the age elements, if evidence was obtained illegally, or if the defendant qualifies for a close-in-age exemption. A rape charge defense strategy lawyer Washington County can file motions to dismiss based on these grounds.
What is the penalty for statutory rape in Washington County, New York?
Class E felony (rape 3rd degree): 1-4 years. Class D felony (rape 2nd degree): 2-7 years. Class B felony (rape 1st degree): 5-25 years. All convictions require sex offender registration. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Washington County can explain the specific penalties for your situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a statutory rape investigation in Washington County?
Yes. Even before charges are filed, you should speak with a Statutory Rape Lawyer Washington County. Statements made during investigations can be used against you. Your lawyer can communicate with law enforcement on your behalf and protect your rights from the beginning.
