Sex crimes are serious charges that can have life-altering consequences. If you’ve been accused of a sex crime in New Hampshire, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation by your side to protect your rights and future. At Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., we understand the gravity of these charges and are committed to providing aggressive defense while maintaining the utmost sensitivity and respect for our clients.
Our skilled attorneys have extensive experience handling a range of sex crime cases, from allegations of assault and exploitation to child pornography and statutory offenses. We approach each case with a strategic, client-focused mindset, working to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you’re facing a sex crime accusation, don’t navigate this challenging situation alone. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can help you defend your future.

Shaheen & Gordon is experienced and thorough
While you aren’t required to have a lawyer if you’re facing sex crime charges, legal representation is critical to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Sex crime accusations can lead to serious legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, sex offender registration, and damage to your reputation. Having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial, especially in complex cases involving false accusations, technicalities, or severe penalties.
At Shaheen & Gordon, we combine compassionate, client-focused representation with aggressive defense strategies. We understand the emotional and legal complexities that come with sex crime charges, and we are committed to providing the comprehensive support you need throughout the legal process.
Here’s why Shaheen & Gordon stands out among New Hampshire sex crime defense firms:
- Proven Legal Expertise – Our attorneys bring decades of experience defending clients against sex crime charges in New Hampshire, including offenses related to assault, exploitation, child pornography, and more.
- Strong Local Reputation – With a deep understanding of New Hampshire’s legal system, we have developed valuable relationships with local judges, prosecutors, and courts, which can play a crucial role in your defense strategy.
- Commitment to Your Future – We understand the long-lasting consequences of a conviction. We work tirelessly to protect your rights, striving to reduce charges, secure dismissals, or negotiate favorable plea deals.
- Personalized Attention – We prioritize understanding your unique case and concerns. Our team provides timely communication and expert guidance, ensuring you feel informed and supported throughout the process.
Here’s what our satisfied clients have to say
“[We] are both deeply grateful to you [Attorney Joe Cherniske] for representing our son in his recent legal trouble. The result was significantly better than imagined, and we do not minimize the effort and skill that went into such a favorable outcome. You have the ability to make your work appear effortless, yet there was clearly a significant amount being done behind the scenes. I remember saying to you in our initial conversation that we needed a lawyer who could be both compassionate and tough when necessary, and you assured me you could be that person. We found this to be true in our interactions with you.”
“I cannot begin to describe how much stress and anxiety you [Attorney Breda] saved me from knowing that I had someone qualified, in my corner fighting for me. I really appreciate the effort on your end and am so thankful with how things ultimately played out. My thanks to Heather as well!”
“Jim Rosenberg and his staff get things done quickly and efficiently. Communicating with them was very simple and easy. Jim always replied in a timely manner. The whole team was effective in answering any questions I had with detail and transparency. Jim is a kind and caring attorney who made it simpler to understand the legal system in terms that made sense to me. I will recommend them to friends and family 10 out of 10 times.”
Our New Hampshire sex crimes lawyers handle many different situations
Generally, any non-consensual sexual act or contact is considered a sex crime, but the exact charge will depend on the details. The age of the victim and his or her relationship to the accused (a family member or student of the accused) will impact the charge.
The age of consent is 16 years old in New Hampshire. There are several other factors that will influence a prosecution charging decision following the investigation into a complaint of sexual wrongdoing, including: the use of force, whether the alleged victim was too intoxicated to consent, and whether the suspect occupied a position of trust in relationship to the alleged victim, among a number of other circumstances.
In the state of New Hampshire, there are several sex crimes, including, but not limited to:
- Incest
- Indecent exposure
- Sexual assault
- Felonious sexual assault
- Aggravated felonious sexual assault
- Possession, distribution, and manufacturing of child pornography
- Solicitation or luring
Each of these offenses includes specific elements, as well as potential defenses, which depend on the unique factual circumstances of each case.
Dealing with Search Warrants and Experts
Sex offense investigations often involve a decision by a judge or magistrate to issue a Search Warrant for your home and personal items, computers and electronics, and biological material. Specific legal standards apply to the decision to issue a search warrant. Our team of criminal defense lawyers are familiar with these standards and work to spot issues that may undermine the cause necessary to grant a Search Warrant request.
Our lawyers regularly research and draft Motions To Suppress evidence derived from the execution of a Search Warrant. Defending sex crimes may also call for expert analysis and opinion regarding the collection of electronic evidence and computer forensics; serology and DNA; mental health issues; as well as a range of other expert issues that often surface in the context of defending a sex offense.
Our team of criminal defense attorneys regularly work with industry experts to evaluate these topics and others when we are defending sex offenses on behalf of our clients.
Shaheen & Gordon’s approach to sex crime cases
At Shaheen & Gordon, we understand that being accused of a sex crime is an incredibly serious and stressful experience. Our approach is both compassionate and strategic, ensuring that you feel supported throughout the process while we aggressively defend your rights. We know the stakes are high, and we are committed to providing the best defense possible, no matter how complex your case may be.
Personalized guidance for your unique situation
Sex crime accusations are highly sensitive, and no two cases are alike. We take the time to understand the specific details of your situation, your background, and any circumstances that could impact your defense. By getting to know you and your case on a deeper level, we can develop a strategy tailored to your needs and the best path forward.
Strong advocacy, inside and outside the courtroom
Whether we’re negotiating with prosecutors, advocating for you in pre-trial motions, or defending you in court, we are fiercely dedicated to protecting your rights. We understand that many sex crime cases involve complex legal issues, so we leave no stone unturned, examining all evidence and exploring every option to secure the best possible outcome. We prioritize achieving favorable resolutions through negotiation when possible, but we are prepared to go to trial if needed.
Clear communication, every step of the way
Sex crime cases can be overwhelming, especially when facing the potential consequences. We ensure that you are kept informed at every stage of the process. Our attorneys are responsive and accessible, providing updates and answering your questions with clarity and compassion so you feel empowered in making critical decisions.
A focus on building your defense
Our goal is to build the strongest defense possible. Whether it’s challenging the evidence, questioning the credibility of witnesses, or presenting alternative theories of the case, we work diligently to craft a defense that casts doubt on the prosecution’s claims. We never take shortcuts and always fight for the most favorable outcome.
Committed to protecting your future
The long-term consequences of a sex crime conviction can be devastating, affecting your freedom, reputation, and relationships. Our commitment is to protect your future, helping you navigate this difficult time with the goal of achieving a positive outcome and getting your life back on track.
Questions about sex crimes in New Hampshire
What are the penalties for sex crimes in New Hampshire?
Penalties for sex crimes in New Hampshire vary depending on the offense and its severity. Convictions can lead to long prison sentences, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and significant fines. The exact penalty depends on factors such as the nature of the crime, the age of the victim, and whether the crime was a first offense.
Can a sex crime charge be dropped or reduced?
Yes, it is possible for a sex crime charge to be dropped or reduced under certain circumstances. This can occur through negotiation with prosecutors, a lack of evidence, or a successful motion to dismiss. Our experienced attorneys work diligently to seek the best possible outcome, which may include reducing the charges or having them dismissed entirely.
What should I do if I am under investigation for a sex crime?
If you are under investigation for a sex crime, it’s critical to seek legal representation immediately. Avoid speaking to law enforcement or investigators without an attorney present.
Law enforcement officers regularly seek to speak with suspects in sexual investigations, either directly or covertly. Police and other law enforcement agents often attempt to interrogate suspects in their home, at the police department, or even at work, giving rise to a number of defenses, depending on the circumstances surrounding such questioning. Police often “puff” or stretch the truth in order to secure confessions and other evidence that may be used against you. This makes it risky to speak with police on your own. You have a constitutional right to remain silent in the face of law enforcement questioning.
If you are confronted with a request to speak to the police, consent to a search, or supply other evidence or information relating to a crime, make sure to contact our New Hampshire sex crime attorneys first. Our attorneys will guide you through the process, protect your rights, and ensure that your defense strategy begins before charges are filed.
Schedule a consultation with our lawyers in New Hampshire
Meet with one of our New Hampshire family law attorneys to discuss your situation. We will answer your questions and explain your legal rights and options.
Contact us online to request your consultation today.




















