The Law Office of Michael J. McConnell

The Law Office of Michael J. McConnellThe Law Office of Michael J. McConnellThe Law Office of Michael J. McConnell

The Law Office of Michael J. McConnell

The Law Office of Michael J. McConnellThe Law Office of Michael J. McConnellThe Law Office of Michael J. McConnell
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    • Home
    • About
    • Criminal Defense
    • Practice Areas
      • Assault
      • Desk Appearance Tickets
      • Drug Crimes
      • DWI
      • Felony Charges
      • Forcible Touching
      • Grand Larceny
      • Gun Charges
      • Personal Injury
      • Protest Arrests
      • Reckless Endangerment
      • Resisting Arrest
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      • Self Defense
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      • Trespass
      • Violent Felonies
      • Weapons Possession
      • Workers' Compensation
    • Contact
    • Blog
  • Home
  • About
  • Criminal Defense
  • Practice Areas
    • Assault
    • Desk Appearance Tickets
    • Drug Crimes
    • DWI
    • Felony Charges
    • Forcible Touching
    • Grand Larceny
    • Gun Charges
    • Personal Injury
    • Protest Arrests
    • Reckless Endangerment
    • Resisting Arrest
    • Robbery
    • Self Defense
    • Shoplifting
    • Trespass
    • Violent Felonies
    • Weapons Possession
    • Workers' Compensation
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Forcible Touching Criminal Defense Lawyer in NYC

Charged with Forcible Touching in NYC? Get a Free Consultation Today.

Being charged with forcible touching in New York City is serious. It can feel scary, confusing, and overwhelming. You may be worried about your future, your freedom, and your reputation.


You don’t have to face this alone. I’m here to help. If you need support or answers, call for a free and confidential consultation. We answer 24/7.

Call Now

What Is Forcible Touching in New York?

In New York, forcible touching is a crime under NY Penal Law § 130.52. It means someone is accused of purposely touching another person’s private or intimate areas.


The law says this kind of touching can include grabbing, squeezing, rubbing, or pinching. The act must be done to degrade someone, abuse them, or for sexual pleasure. Even if it was quick or happened in public, it can still be considered forcible touching.


These cases happen often on public transportation in New York City, especially the subway. Many cases involve accusations that someone rubbed against another person for sexual gratification. Sometimes the police get a report from the person who claims they were touched. Other times undercover NYPD transit officers allege they saw the behavior.


One of the biggest problems with subway cases is the environment: crowded trains, sudden stops, and people packed tightly together. Just because bodies bump in a cramped space doesn’t mean a crime was committed. But sometimes officers or other riders assume the worst and believe the contact must have been intentional or sexual.


If you’re facing this charge, you need a New York City criminal defense lawyer who will be proactive and challenge the evidence. The sooner I’m involved, the sooner I can help protect you. Don’t wait. Call me now at (914) 810-0510.

How Serious Is This Charge?

Forcible touching is a Class A misdemeanor, which means a conviction can lead to up to one year in jail, probation, a permanent criminal record, and other serious consequences. 


Even if this is your first arrest, prosecutors in NYC often push for strict penalties, and judges take these cases very seriously.


This charge can affect your career, your relationships, your future, and your name. You deserve someone who will protect your rights and fight for you.

How Forcible Touching Cases are Built by Prosecutors in NYC

These cases are often based on a single accusation. The prosecution must prove that the touching happened without consent and that it was done intentionally for an unlawful purpose as set forth in P.L. § 130.52. 


Evidence may include:


  • Witness testimony
  • Surveillance video or MTA footage
  • Body-worn camera


In many cases (especially on the subway), the accusation is based on a misunderstanding, confusion in a crowded space, or mistaken identity.


If you believe this is a false accusation or misunderstanding, talk to an attorney as soon as possible.

Message Us to Schedule a Free Consultation

Possible Defenses to Forcible Touching in NYC

Under the criminal law in New York, you do not have to prove your innocence. Rather, the prosecution must prove that you are guilty of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. This means that a skilled defense attorney will build a strategic defense to a forcible touching charge that helps jurors see all of the reasonable doubt. 


For example, a criminal defense attorney in NYC can defend you against a forcible touching allegation by showing that the allegations are false, mistaken, or simply unsupported by the evidence. 


There are countless common defenses to forcible touching in NYC, including:


  • Mistaken identity
  • Accidental contact
  • Lack of intent
  • Insufficient evidence
  • Inconsistent or unreliable reports


The law requires proof that the touching was for sexual gratification, abuse, or degradation. The prosecution must prove this beyond a reasonable doubt. Often times, the police and prosecutors jump to conclusions and rush to judgment. A qualified criminal defense attorney can challenge the weaknesses in their case and show that the case is filled with reasonable doubts. 


Every case is different, but everyone deserves a strong defense from day one. To speak with a proactive criminal defense attorney, call now for a free consultation. 

Why Experience Matters in Forcible Touching Cases in NYC

I'm a former Manhattan prosecutor. I’ve handled many forcible touching cases from the other side. I understand how these cases are investigated, how prosecutors think, and how evidence is evaluated.


Now, I use that experience to defend people just like you. My focus is protecting your future, your reputation, and your freedom.


If you want someone who knows how this system works from both sides, I’m ready to help. Give me a call at (914) 810-0510. 

My Approach to Criminal Defense

My work is based on three core values:


  1. No judgment: I know that accusations don’t define a person. A misunderstanding or a moment can lead to charges that are unfair, exaggerated, or completely false. 
  2. Clear and simple communication: I explain everything in plain language. You’ll      always know what’s happening and what your options are.
  3. Thorough preparation: Forcible touching cases in particular often go to trial. Being fully prepared for trial from day one is therefore essential. 


If you're ready to take the next step, give me a call right now at (914) 810-0510. The first consultation is always free and confidential. I’ll listen to you without judgment and help you explore your legal options. 

Bio for NYC Criminal Defense Lawyer Michael J. McConnell

Why Your Reputation Matters

Even being accused of a sexual offense like forcible touching can be damaging. You may already be facing stress at work, at home, or in your community.


My job isn’t just to defend the legal case, it’s to help protect your future. You deserve a defense that fights for your name, not just your case. 

You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

If you were arrested or believe you are under investigation in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, or Staten Island, speak with a lawyer quickly.


These cases move fast. The sooner we start, the more we can do.

Take the First Step

Protecting your rights and your future is what I do. Give me a call for a free consultation. Let’s begin building a strong defense now. 

Call Today

Copyright © 2025 The Law Office of Michael J. McConnell, Phone: (914) 810-0510, Address: 547 Saw Mill River Road, Suite 1D2, Ardsley, NY 10502 - All Rights Reserved. 

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