Minnesota Sexual Assault Lawyer

Criminal sexual assault is the use of sexual actions that are unwanted by and/or harmful to another person. Some common terms that are used interchangeably with sexual assault are sexual abuse, sexual violence, and rape.

Sexual assault cases that involve a family member, child, mentally impaired person or involve physical harm to the victim are often classified as the worst. However, it is important to remember that more than half of all sexual assault defendants are either dismissed or acquitted which means, if you are facing sexual assault charges, there is still hope for a dismissal without conviction.

Call 612-564-4372 to consult with an Minneapolis defense attorney to discuss your case today.

Sexual Assault Minnesota

There is a lot of scandal surrounding sexual assault cases, especially once the media gets a hold of the situation. Criminal sexual conduct and rape charges may also be laid once sexual assault allegations are made. However, sexual penetration is not necessary in a sexual assault case; proof of unwanted sexual contact is often enough to warrant a charge and possible conviction.

There are five degrees of criminal sexual assault categories under the state of Minnesota laws – first degree criminal sexual conduct is deemed the worst and includes sexual penetration with someone under the age of 16 as well as other aggravating factors. You may be facing a more serious criminal sexual assault conviction if the allegations include use of a weapon, coercion or an act with a child, someone under your authority or someone with a mental or physical disability.

Facing a Sexual Assault Conviction

Criminal sexual conduct is considered a felony offense in almost all instances except for fifth degree criminal sexual conduct. What this means is regardless of whether you are accused of first degree criminal sexual assault or fourth degree criminal sexual assault, you could still be facing jail time or prison, severe fines, rehabilitation, community service, electronic monitoring and a criminal conviction that will remain on your record forever.  Further, if convicted, you will be required to register as a predatory offender and, most likely, be required to disclose this information to the community and potential employers.

An individual facing First degree criminal sexual conduct charges may face up to 30 years in prison and/or a $40,000 fine. If convicted, sexual assault convictions cannot be expunged- you will live with this title forever. This is why it is so important to fight this criminal charge and ensure your legal rights are protected.

How to Get Help

In the state of Minnesota alone, there is a sexual assault reported every 83 minutes. Despite the high number of sexual assaults that occur in the United States every year, less than half of those arrested for rape are convicted, and 54 percent of all rape prosecutions end in dismissal or acquittal. Your chance of being dismissed of all criminal sexual conduct charges will depend on a number of factors, including your Minnesota criminal defense lawyer.

Don’t take any chances with your future. If you or someone you know are facing criminal charges, don’t wait any longer. Call us today at 612-564-4372 to speak to a Minneapolis Sexual Assault Attorney for a free, initial case consultation. You’ll be glad you did.