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sex crimes

Chicago Sex Crime Attorney

Sophisticated Defense for Serious Crimes: Call (844) 668-4258

Have you been arrested or charged with a crime of a sexual nature? Whether you have already been arrested or are under investigation, time is of the essence. Start building your defense today with the help of our experienced Chicago sex crime lawyers at Pissetzky Law LLC

We work quickly, creatively, and aggressively to help you build a cutting-edge defense against serious sex crimes. Have our proven team help you fight your state or federal sex crime today.

From Gal's interview for the Masters of the Courtroom series on ReelLawyers.com.


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A conviction of a sex crime carries with it very severe consequences that can ruin your life in many ways even beyond time spent in jail or prison. You may be facing lifetime registration as a sex offender, which restricts your housing opportunities and will not allow you to work in certain jobs. Don't give up without putting up a fight.

We're ready to listen to your side of the story. Set up a case consultation today by calling (844) 668-4258.

Illinois Sexual Assault Laws

By law, sexual assault involves any sexual act committed against another person without consent. This includes sexual acts involving children, minors, the mentally disabled, and anyone else incapable of giving consent.

Illinois law defines rape, including statutory rape, as any act of sexual penetration that involves:

  • The use of force or the threat of force
  • A victim that cannot give consent
  • A family member under the age of 18

Additionally, an individual can be charged with rape in Illinois if the accused is at least 17 years old and holds some sort of authority or a position of trust over an alleged victim between the ages of 13 and 18. For example, a 17-year-old youth sports coach may face rape charges if he is accused of sexual assault by a member of the team he coaches.

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  • ILLINOIS SUPER LAWYERS®
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  • NOT-GUILTY VERDICTS & CASE DISMISSALS
  • OVER 20 YEARS OF TRIAL-TESTED DEFENSE

Request a Case Consultation at (844) 668-4258

If you are under investigation for a sex offense or have been charged with one, you should not hesitate to speak with a Chicago sex crime attorney. We are not afraid to go to court and are known for providing strong, aggressive defense.

Accused of a sex crime? Contact us today at (844) 668-4258 to set up a case consultation.

Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois

The penalties for sexual assault and other sexual offenses in Illinois vary depending on the circumstances involved.

For a first-time conviction, alleged offenders face anywhere from 4-15 years in prison (Class 1 felony). Second-time convictions are considered Class X felonies and can carry a sentence of 30-60 years or life in prison.

Those accused of committing a sexual offense against a child under the age of 8 or a person who is mentally incapacitated can face aggravated criminal sexual assault charges. The same is true for those accused of committing a sexual offense with the use of a weapon, death threats, or other forms of violence. In both instances, alleged offenders are subject to Class X felony charges, which may include penalties of 30-60 years to life in prison.

Illinois Statutory Rape Laws and Penalties

Statutory rape, also known as “sexual assault of a minor” or “criminal sexual abuse,” is defined by Illinois law as any type of sexual activity with someone under the age of 17. This includes activities such as kissing, fondling, oral sex, and penetration.

In Illinois, the age of consent is 17 years old. This means that people aged 17 or older can legally give their consent for sexual activity, while individuals under the age of 17 cannot legally give their consent for sexual activity in Illinois.

Even if both parties involved are minors, statutory rape can be charged in some circumstances. Remember, there are no “Romeo-and-Juliet” exceptions–which protect young people from criminal charges for enganging in consesual sexual activity with others close in age–in Illinois.

Under Illinois law, aggravated criminal sexual abuse is defined as engaging in sexual conduct with:

  • A child under 18 years old and the defendant is a family member
  • A child under 13 years old when the defendant is 17 or older
  • A child who is 13 years old at least or younger than 18 years old, and the defendant is at least 17 years old and in a position of authority, trust or supervision over the child
  • A child under nine years old and the defendant is under age 17
  • A child who is at least 13 years old and under 17 years old and the defendant is five year older than the victim

Sexual conduct can include sexual touching or fondling as well as sexual penetration. Aggravated criminal sexual abuse is charged as a Class 2 felony.

Penalties for aggravated criminal sexual abuse include:

  • A $25 to $25,000 fine
  • Three to seven years in prison

Sex Offender Registry

One of the most damaging penalties someone can receive after being convicted is having to register as a sex offender. The sex offender registry is online database that has your name, age, distinguishing characteristics and details about the crime that you were convicted of. Registration lasts a lifetime so this can have a huge impact on finding a place to work and live. That is why you need the help of an experienced sex crime attorney from Pissetzky Law LLC.

Possible Defenses to Statutory Rape

Some common defenses that can be made for a statutory rape charge include mistaking the victim’s age, the “Romeo and Juliet” exception, and marriage. The “Romeo and Juliet” exception protects young people who are close in age from getting serious criminal charges. In Illinois, the conduct is still illegal, however you may receive reduced jail time or smaller fines. While marriage is a defense for statutory rape in many states, in Illinois this cannot be used as a defense. Moreover, there is limited defense for mistaking the victim’s age in the state of Illinois. If you have been accused, it is important that you speak with our Chicago sex crimes lawyer about your defense as soon as possible to discuss your options.

The Courtroom Game Changers You Need

At Pissetzky Law LLC, our Chicago sex crime lawyers are always prepared to fight for you in court. We are a team of veteran litigators with an impressive track record of courtroom successes, even in the toughest of felonies. We've won cases in front of juries when the odds seemed stacked against us. We've secured not guilty verdicts in crimes when others believed the case was hopeless. Our sex crime defense team has the vision, the skills, and the resources it takes to help you even the legal playing field in court.

Charged with any of the following? Call us immediately:

Real Results
  • People v. GE

    Finding of Not Guilty! GE was charged with possession with intent to deliver a kilogram of heroine, a class X felony ...

  • People v. JS

    Charged with attempted murder and aggravated discharge of a firearm. Mr. Pissetzky and another attorney pushed the case ...

  • Motion Granted, Case Dismissed

    People v. RMC – Chicago police officers received information that a 2 kilo cocaine deal was going to happen in a garage. ...

  • Motion to Suppress Heroin Granted

    People v. AP – After Chicago Police officers walked up to AP after he parked his car, they searched him and the car and ...

  • Motion Granted Case Dismissed

    People v. RW – RW was charged with a Class X Felony of Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana. Chicago Police ...

  • People v. KS – Not Guilty

    Mr. KS was charged with aggravated battery to 2 Chicago Police officers and with resisting arrest. 3 Chicago Police ...

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