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Common Sex Crime Charges in Illinois
Being accused of a sex crime can be devastating for an individual. It is an offense that will follow you throughout your lifetime and may place you on a sex offender registry, which will haunt you for years to come.
The accusation of misconduct is just that; you are still innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If you find yourself facing allegations of sexual assault, you need to understand the charges fully, the actions that will take place in your defense, and the penalties these charges carry. To overcome these charges, you may need to obtain a skilled legal team to defend you.
In Illinois, sex crimes include any nonconsensual unlawful act that is sexual in nature. If you find yourself facing these severe charges, you need the team of Chicago Trusted Attorneys® to defend your reputation, your rights, and your freedom.
Types of Sex Crime Offenses in Illinois
Any form of sexual assault or abuse is taken very seriously. The Illinois Criminal Sexual Assault Act defines multiple types of sexual misconduct. The severity of these felonies ranges from Class 1 through Class X and carries punishments dependent on the gravity of the charges.
Below are examples of common sex crimes in Illinois:
- Criminal sexual assault and abuse
- Aggravated criminal sexual abuse
- Rape
- Molestation
- Predatory criminal sexual assault
- Child pornography
- Solicitation of a minor
- Prostitution or soliciting a prostitute
Sexual Abuse vs. Assault
While some terms, like abuse and assault, are often used interchangeably, they carry different legal definitions and punishments. Depending on whether this is a first or repeat offense one is being accused of, these may carry a prison term of four to sixty years.
It’s not just a prison sentence you could face. You may be facing financial penalties, both from the criminal trial and a civil lawsuit. Avoiding a conviction can protect you from financial penalties that can harm you for years to come.
There is also a high probability that you will be required to register yourself as a sex offender if convicted. This registry can limit your ability to live life as you once did. You may be barred from certain places, for example, and your housing options may be limited. That can have a devastating effect on your personal life, your career, and your family.
Aggravated Factors in Sex Crime Charges
There are certain factors that elevate sexual assault or abuse to aggravated criminal sexual assault or abuse. These factors may turn a misdemeanor into a felony, meaning you’ll face harsher penalties.
Any of the following can be an aggravating factor that turns even common sex crimes into more severe situations:
- A weapon was involved
- Bodily harm was caused
- Drugs were given without consent
- The victim’s life was endangered
- The victim was mentally disabled or over 60 years old
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Best Defense
If you or a loved one find themselves facing a sex crime charge, it’s never too early or too late to obtain legal representation. Don’t find yourself trapped by law enforcement officials answering questions you may not be prepared to answer and being led to possibly incriminate yourself unknowingly. Obtaining legal counsel is your best bet in having a favorable outcome.
The impact of a conviction in these cases is life-altering. The investigations are intrusive, the accusations carry a negative stigma long term, and having to register as a sex offender impacts your ability to work and live in certain areas, attend school functions, and do many other activities that you may now take for granted.
Because the penalties are so severe, don’t face sex crime charges alone. Contact Chicago Trusted Attorneys® today at 312-931-5411 or by completing the online form below.