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The Sanders Firm, P.C.: Strangulation and Related Offenses

The Sanders Firm, P.C. in New York City represents defendants in criminal cases involving offenses against the person, including strangulation and related offenses. Strangulation and related offenses are found under Article 121, New York Penal Law, and they include three such offenses. Strangulation offenses occur when a person obstructs of breathing or blood of another, which may lead to serious harm or injury. There is a special provision in the law for medical and dental workers who may use this technique as part of a procedure. This is seen as an affirmative defense when medical or dental personnel are involved in this activity for providing valid medical treatment.

Offense- Strangulation

There are three specific strangulation crimes described in the penal law. The first is a class A misdemeanor and is criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation (S 121.11). This occurs when a person purposely blocks the nose or throat or a person or puts pressure on the throat or neck. Strangulation in the second degree (S 121.12 ) is a class D felony and strangulation in the first degree (S 121.13) is a class C felony. Both involve the same activity as the class A misdemeanor, but section 12 “causes stupor, loss of consciousness for any period of time, or any other physical injury or impairment” and section 13 “causes serious physical injury to such other person.” Both are hate crime specified offenses and are violent felonies.

Seeking Representation

If you have been arrested in New York under the law related to strangulation and other offenses, it is important to contact a criminal defense practice such as The Sanders Firm, P.C. as soon as possible. It is essential that you are able to speak with legal counsel, that you refrain from making any potentially incriminating statements to police, and that you have the opportunity to assess what has just occurred with a knowledgeable professional.

Along with beginning to develop a defensive strategy, your criminal defense lawyer will offer counsel while law enforcement is questioning you, become acquainted with the facts of your case, and petition for your rights. Your lawyer will discuss the charges with you, inform you of the next steps, and begin the legal process of bail. Having a criminal defense attorney on-hand at the very beginning can prove to be a major advantage in the end.

Protecting Your Rights

At The Sanders Firm, P.C., we know that being charged with a crime under Article 121 strangulation and other offenses can be overwhelming. Defendants usually have a lot or questions and concerns, and they are certainly unable to represent themselves during this time. They do not understand the New York State criminal justice system, they are unable to comprehend what has occurred and they have no idea what the next steps are.

At times like these, it helps greatly to have someone who understands the intricacies of the law and the workings of the system. If you find yourself charged with strangulation or related offenses, contact The Sanders Firm, P.C. We will be your voice for justice working closely with you every step of the way.