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Is Consent a Defense to Statutory Rape in New York?

Every day in New York City, teenagers and young adults who have clean records find themselves entangled in serious criminal charges related to statutory rape.  Unlike most other rape charges, where the victim is forced or assaulted into compliance with the offender, statutory rape often involves couples who had no idea they were violating the …

What Legal Defenses Can Get DWI Charges Dropped in New York?

Being charged with DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is a nerve-wracking experience, and with good reason.  Penalties for intoxicated driving in New York can be extremely severe, not only in terms of the fines, jail time, and license suspension, but also the effects upon your reputation, employability, and your ability to take advantage of different opportunities …

Man Charged with Murder in Queens for Death of Infant with “Evil Eye” After Voodoo Ritual

Sunnyside resident Jorge Baque, 36, was arrested late November in connection with the July death of his five-month-old infant daughter, Alaia Baque.  Baque has stated that the infant’s death was caused by a spiritual ritual intended to rid her of an “evil eye.”  Baque is being charged with assault, child endangerment, and murder for his …

Can Car Passengers Drink Alcohol in New York City?

Everyone knows you can be arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI), or, as many other states call it, driving under the influence (DUI).  But what about drinking in a vehicle when you aren’t the person who’s driving the car?  Our Queens DWI lawyers examine New York’s “open container” laws – and the potential consequences of …

4-Year Prison Sentence for Man Convicted of Assault Weapons Possession in Queens

Arverne, Queens resident Charles Williams, 23, was sentenced on Monday, December 5 to four years in prison for possession of two assault weapons.  Williams, who was convicted in November, told investigators he purchased the weapons online.  Our Queens weapons crimes lawyers examine why Williams was charged and convicted, and explain what types of firearms are …

Gun, Drug Charges Dropped Against Brooklyn Hip Hop Artist Desiigner

Several gun- and drug-related charges against Brooklyn-based rapper Sidney Selby, known by his stage name “Desiigner,” were dropped in September after a criminal investigation failed to turn up evidence.  Our Brooklyn drug possession lawyers examine the events that led to Desiigner’s arrest – and the penalties he (and other defendants) might have faced if convicted.

NYPD Officer Charged with Manslaughter, Negligent Homicide in Brooklyn DWI Death of MIT Student

Earlier this month, former NYPD officer Nicholas Batka was charged with vehicular manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and other serious offenses in connection with the death of MIT student Andrew Esquivel.  Three others were non-fatally but severely injured when Batka’s vehicle mounted the curb where Esquivel was standing at the time of the accident.  Our Brooklyn …

Queens Man Charged with Sex Trafficking in Brooklyn, Faces Mandatory Minimum Sentence

A Queens man has been charged with sex trafficking of underage girls, an extremely serious felony offense under NY Penal Law § 230.34.  If convicted, the defendant may face a mandatory minimum sentence of up to 10 years in prison.  Our Queens sex crime defense lawyers explain New York City’s sex trafficking statute, and discuss …