“You have a truly sharp legal mind and your courtroom presence is among the best. I am forever grateful for your two years of hard work, dedication and service to my father's case.” — R.C.

“I give Mr. Spano the highest possible recommendation. Mr. Spano helped me navigate a somewhat unorthodox legal matter, did so quickly, and always kept me informed.”

“Thanks for taking my case and getting me a not guilty verdict. You are a great lawyer. I could not asked for anything more. Please know you hold a special place in my family's heart.” — G.B.

“Many thanks for the very professional and gentlemanly way that you conducted yourself at the trial of my son. I along with all of my family were thrilled beyond words with the outcome.” — B.B.

“Thank you for assuring me that just because a good honest person makes a mistake does not mean they have to be treated like a criminal!” — D.S.

Proven Criminal Defense In Upstate New York

Statutory Rape Or Sexual Abuse Of A Child

When you are accused of taking advantage of someone underage, it may feel like the whole world is against you. Everyone assumes you are guilty.

“My name is Michael Spano. I have experience handling sex crimes cases as both a former prosecuting attorney and as a criminal defense trial lawyer. I have successfully defended clients in Syracuse and Central New York accused of sex with a minor or sexual contact with children.

I am ready to represent parents and family members, stepdads and boyfriends, teachers and coaches, high school and college students — anyone accused of these serious crimes.

I know what’s at stake. I will fight to get charges dismissed.” — Michael Spano

To arrange a consultation with Mr. Spano about your case, call his office today.

Sex With Minors And Statutory Rape

By law, an underage person cannot consent to sex. In New York, the age of full consent is 17.* There are three degrees of rape (penetration) or sexual misconduct (oral sex and other acts), depending on your age and the age of the alleged victim:

First degree:

  • Any sexual contact with a child under age 11
  • The child is under 13 and you are 18 or older
  • Forcible acts or physically helpless victim (any age)

Second degree:

  • The minor is under 15 and you are 18 or older
  • Victim is mentally incapacitated (any age)

Third degree:

  • The minor is under 17 and you are 21 or older
  • Victim is over 17 but unable to consent for other reasons
  • Victim is legal age, but you are a person in a position of authority

Online Solicitation For Sex With A Minor

Authorities have cracked down on internet sex crimes, monitoring websites or using undercover officers to pose as teens. Based on emails, phone calls or text messages, an adult can face criminal charges for merely arranging to hook up with a teenager, even if no sexual contact actually occurs.

Michael Spano Will Fight For You

If you were accused of sexual abuse of a minor or arrested for an illegal sexual relationship, call our office immediately at 315-350-3975, or contact us online.