New York City Student Cyber-Crimes Lawyer

New York law has several laws which penalize cyber-crimes– which is a very broad definition involving crimes related to computers, the Internet, and computer networking.

If you are a student facing New York City cyber-crime charges, contact an experienced New York City student cyber-crimes lawyer. Let a qualified student defense attorney review the charges against you, and determine every legal defense which may be available to you. Your future is too important not to make an informed decision, let an attorney help.

Cyber Crimes Can Be Misdemeanors and Felonies

New York City cyber-crimes are defined by statute and can be classified as either misdemeanors (those which impose prison sentences of up to one year) or felonies (those which impose prison sentences of over one year).

In addition, cyber-crimes can also result in federal charges, which can be harsher than state charges, as internet crimes, cross state lines. Some of the most common New York City cyber-crimes include computer tampering, cyber harassment, and computer trespass.

Computer Tampering

According to NY Penal Law § 156.20 et. seq., computer tampering occurs when a person tampers with, uses, alters, or destroys someone else’s computer. New York law recognizes four degrees of computer tampering crimes which can be classified as misdemeanors or felonies and result in paying fines of up to $50,000 and serving up to 15 years in prison. A New York City student cyber-crimes lawyer can attempt to mitigate the penalties that an individual might face.

Computer Trespass

According to NY Penal Law § 156.10, computer trespass occurs when a person gains unauthorized use of a computer with the intent to commit, attempt or further the commission of another felony offense, or knowingly gains access to computer material. New York considers this a Class E felony which can result in serving up to four years in prison and paying hefty fines.

Cyber-Harassment

According to NY Penal Law § 240.30, cyber-harassment occurs when a person communicates with another person (including anonymously) by transmitting or delivering any form of written communication or causes a communication to be initiated by electronic means with the intent to harass, annoy, threaten or alarm another person. New York considers this a Class A misdemeanor which can result in serving up to one year in prison and paying fines.

Unauthorized Use of a Computer

According to NY Penal Law § 156.05, the unauthorized use of a computer occurs when a person knowingly uses, causes to be used or accesses a computer, computer network or computer service without proper authorization. New York considers this a Class A misdemeanor which can result in serving up to one year in prison and paying fines.

Those with previous criminal histories are likely to face significantly higher penalties and New York City students under the age of 16 who are charged with cyber-crimes may be treated as juveniles or adults depending on the crime committed and the facts and circumstances surrounding it.

A New York City student cyber-crimes attorney can explain how these laws work and what defenses apply to specific situations.

Talk to a New York City Cyber-Crimes Attorney

If you are a student and have been charged with committing a cyber-crime, contact a New York City student cyber-crimes lawyer to review the charges against you.

Let an attorney determine what legal defenses may be available to you and whether there is a possibility to have those charges dismissed altogether or mitigated through a plea bargain.

Do not let a lapse in judgment or mistake affect your future. Contact a lawyer and see how they can help.