Lawyers Defending Against Rape and Child Sex Crime Charges

Police often prosecute sex crimes very seriously. Sadly, this means people accused of these crimes may not be treated as innocent until proven guilty. A sex crime accusation can harm your reputation, job and family. If convicted, you may face a long prison sentence and have to register as a sex offender for life. If you face these accusations, talk to a criminal defense lawyer right away. Contact Anderson Attorneys & Advisors at 630-780-3960.

Consequences Of Sexual Assault And Other Sexual Offenses

When people hear “sex crime,” they think of rape or sexual assault. But sex crimes can vary, and the punishment depends on what happened and the victim’s age. Criminal sexual assault is a Class 1 felony. It could become aggravated criminal sexual assault, a Class X felony, if someone used a weapon or hurt the victim, or if the victim was over 60.

A Class 1 felony can mean four to 15 years in prison. A Class X felony usually means six to 30 years in prison. More serious crimes, like assaulting a child or using a gun, can add more prison time. Sex offenders must register for at least 10 years, sometimes for life, which can make it hard to find a home or job.

Our firm has offices in Wheaton, Carol Stream, Glendale Heights, West Chicago and Warrenville. You can trust us to protect your rights and ensure your side of the story gets heard.

Revenge Porn

Recently, sharing private information has become more common. For example, someone might share explicit photos of a former partner online or through texts to embarrass them. In Illinois, this crime is called “nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images,” a Class 4 felony.

• Revenge porn can include sexual acts or intimate exposure.
• A Class 4 felony can lead to one to three years in jail and fines up to $25,000.
• A victim can sue the offender.

Sexting

With smartphones and social media, many people, including kids, send explicit images. Images of someone under 18 are child pornography. Adults who have or share these images may face felony charges. Kids who share them may face juvenile justice supervision or serious charges.

• Courts may charge adults with child pornography as a Class 1 or Class X felony.
• Courts may require kids to get counseling or do community service.
• Kids may face charges for sharing child pornography.

Legal Help With Sex Crimes In Illinois

We defend against any sex crimes in Illinois law, including:

• Criminal sexual abuse
• Aggravated criminal sexual abuse
• Criminal sexual assault
• Aggravated criminal sexual assault
• Kidnapping
• Prostitution
• Failure to register as a sex offender
• Predatory criminal sexual assault
• Predatory criminal sexual assault of a child
• Indecent solicitation
• Unauthorized video recording
• Solicitation of a prostitute or sexual act
• Harassment through electronic communication
• Unlawful restraint
• Aggravated unlawful restraint
• Nonconsensual dissemination of private images
• Public indecency
• Grooming
• Sexual exploitation of a child
• Child abduction
• Possession, distribution, manufacturing of child pornography
• Failure to report sexual abuse of a child

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can result in prostitution charges?

Offering or agreeing to do sexual acts for money is prostitution, a Class A misdemeanor in Illinois. Authorities may also charge someone who offers payment for sexual acts. Soliciting sex from someone under 18 is a Class 4 felony.

Is there a difference between sexual assault and date rape?

Sexual penetration with someone who cannot consent is sexual assault, including if the victim was unconscious or intoxicated. Charges may rise to aggravated criminal sexual assault if someone gives drugs to a victim without their consent.

When is sex with a minor considered statutory rape?

The “age of consent” in Illinois is 17. An adult who has sex with a child under 17 may face criminal sexual abuse charges unless the alleged offender is less than five years older than the victim. Criminal sexual abuse is a Class A misdemeanor. Authorities may charge the adult with more serious felonies, depending on the circumstances.

What rules do registered sex offenders need to follow?

Sex offenders must register annually with their local law enforcement agency. Those considered “sexually dangerous” or “sexually violent” must register every 90 days. They must notify law enforcement within three days of moving. Registered sex offenders cannot live within 500 feet of a school, playground or facility for children under 18.

Trust Our Experienced DuPage County Sex Crime Defense Attorneys

Sex crime accusations can harm your reputation, career and freedom. Our team at Anderson Attorneys & Advisors will fight to protect your rights and build a strong defense. For a confidential consultation, call us now at 630-780-3960 or contact us online.