There are few allegations that carry steeper consequences than sexual abuse. As steep as the social stigma is for these offenses, the statutory penalties are even more severe. Being convicted of this type of crime could alter the course of your life forever.

You have the opportunity to defend yourself, and you do not have to go through the legal process on your own. A dedicated sex crimes attorney could review the state’s evidence and advise you of your legal options. Instead of pleading guilty immediately, it can benefit you to discuss your situation with a Mankato sexual abuse lawyer from Kohlmeyer Hagen Law Office, Chtd.

What Are the Degrees of Criminal Sexual Conduct?

State law does not recognize a crime called sexual abuse. Instead, there is one statute that broadly covers these types of offenses. Known as criminal sexual conduct, there are five varying degrees of the offense. Each one applies to different types of behavior and has its own sentencing range. Our Mankato sexual abuse attorneys could defend against any of the following:

First Degree

The highest tier of offense, this degree applies to crimes that are typically referred to as rape in other jurisdictions. In general, it includes certain people under the age of 13 as well as penetration without consent when certain other factors are present. For example, it applies when an offender uses a hazardous weapon or puts the alleged person in fear of bodily harm. A conviction can lead to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $40,000.

Second Degree

Similar to the most serious of cases, second-degree conduct involves sexual contact without penetration. If a person is found guilty of this offense, they can expect to face up to 25 years in prison and $35,000 in fines.

Third Degree

This specific charge involves penetration, but it lacks some of the aggravating factors for a first-degree offense. The maximum penalty is 15 years in prison.

Fourth Degree

A conviction at this level involves contact without penetration, but it lacks some of the aggravating issues in a second-degree case. The maximum penalty is 10 years and $20,000.

Fifth Degree

While this is the lowest tier of offense, it is important to understand that does not mean a conviction is a minor issue. These cases are treated as gross misdemeanors for the most part, and they can lead to a year in jail. Repeated offenses are treated as felonies. Most arrests are for lewd conduct.

Potential Defenses

A sexual abuse attorney in Mankato could offer several defense strategies in these cases. The right approach may result in an acquittal or lead to a favorable plea offer.

Consent is one of the strongest defenses in many cases because the basis of this crime is often sexual contact against another person’s will. Evidence that an encounter was consensual could lead to an acquittal. Other possible strategies might include:

  • Lack of evidence
  • Mistaken identity
  • Actual innocence
  • False accusations
  • Unlawful search and seizure
  • Statute of limitations violation

Experienced legal counsel from our firm could advise a person about how each option might fit the facts of the case.

Talk to a Mankato Sexual Abuse Attorney About Your Case Today

When you are arrested on suspicion of misconduct, it is vital that you seek legal help right away. A strong defense could be the difference between walking free and incarceration.

A Mankato sexual abuse lawyer could help you understand your available legal options and investigate all the facts of a case to form a defense strategy. Call our firm today to schedule a consultation.