New York Spousal Abuse Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed January 17, 2018
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Domestic violence crimes are very serious offenses that carry strict penalties because of the severe harm done to the victims. It is a broad area of crime in New York, encompassing many different types of offenses, and does not refer to just one single charge. Similarly, "spousal abuse charges" refer to a series of crimes that violate domestic violence laws and involve not only current or former spouses, but also individuals that are involved through dating, living with each other, or sharing children with one another.
In New York, there are several offenses associated with this crime category that range from less serious violations such as disorderly conduct, which could be based on something like a public fight with your significant other, to a more serious charge such as assault or rape.
Harassment
A common type of New York spousal abuse charge is harassment. Harassment occurs when an individual engages in bothersome or threatening pattern of behavior toward another person such as following them or generally placing them in fear. In New York, when the behavior is accomplished through written or electronic means, the offense is elevated to aggravated harassment.
Sex Crimes
Sex crimes are another area often implicated in spousal abuse charges. Although you may be intimately and/or romantically involved or even married to a person, if you engage in sexual contact with that person without their consent, you have committed a crime. New York law defines the acts in specific terms. The following sex crimes are often committed against spouses or romantic partners:
- Sexual abuse
- Sexual assault
- Sexual misconduct
New York Spousal Abuse Laws at a Glance
The chart below provides a summary of state laws related to New York spousal abuse charges, including links to important code sections.
Statutes |
|
Penalties and Sentencing |
|
Possible Defenses |
Because New York spousal abuse charges include various offenses, there are myriad ways to defend against these charges including the following:
|
Related Offense |
|
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
New York Spousal Abuse Charges: Related Resources
- New York Sexual Assault Laws
- New York Child Abuse Laws
- New York Stalking Laws
- New York Criminal Statute of Limitations Laws
Get Legal Help with Your Spousal Abuse Case
If you're facing New York spousal abuse charges, then you should strongly consider having an experienced attorney on your side. These are serious charges and an attorney can help you decide how to best proceed with your case. Use Findlaw's attorney directory to locate a New York criminal defense attorney near you today.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many New York attorneys offer free consultations.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life

Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.