Get The Skilled Defense You Need When Facing Criminal Sexual Abuse And Assault Charges
In Illinois, criminal sexual assault is sometimes considered the same crime as rape, and is charged as a Class 1 felony, resulting in a potential lengthy prison sentence. At Shifrin Law Group, in Chicago, we understand that there is often more than one side to a story and that the details matter.
What Constitutes Abuse And Assault?
You can be charged with criminal sexual assault in Illinois by committing any type of penetrative sex act against someone who has not or is unable to consent.
Additionally, some sexual acts can be considered sexual assault if they are committed with:
- A minor
- A person with a mental or cognitive disability
- Someone intoxicated by drugs or alcohol
If you are convicted of criminal sexual assault in Illinois, not only are you facing a lengthy prison sentence, but you will be required to register on a sex offender list.
The Use Of Threat Or Force And Age Of Victim
In Illinois, a person commits criminal sexual abuse if they have committed a sex act by the use or threat of force or committed a sex act on a victim who is unable to understand the nature of the act or give knowing consent.
A person has also committed criminal sexual abuse if they commit a sex act with a victim 13-17 years of age and the person is less than five years older than the victim.
A person under 17 has engaged in criminal sexual abuse if they commit a sex act with a victim who is 9-17 years of age.
In Illinois, a person has committed criminal sexual assault if they commit an act of sexual penetration, and any of the following are true:
- Use of force or threat of force
- Knowing the victim is unable to understand the nature of the act or is unable to give knowing consent
- Is a family member of the victim and the victim is under 18 years of age
- Is 17 years of age or over and holds a position of trust, authority, or supervision in relation to the victim, and the victim is at least 13 years of age but under 18 years of age.
Being charged with criminal sexual abuse or assault is very serious and if you are convicted of a felony-level sexual crime in Illinois, you face extensive prison time and serious fines that can affect the rest of your life. We represent those accused and charged with both misdemeanor crimes and felony offenses.
We Are Here To Help. Call For A Free Consultation.
Our team believes that everyone accused of committing criminal sexual abuse/assault or aggravated criminal sexual abuse/assault deserves zealous and judgment-free representation. Call us today at 312-766-4223. Speak with an attorney who has experience and success in defending individuals who have been charged with these crimes. You can also reach us by using our online contact form. Our founding attorney speaks fluent Russian, making us capable of serving you in either the English or Russian language.
