Sex crimes, which are also classified as criminal sexual conduct in the state of Minnesota, is a very serious offense that many youth are faced with. If you or someone you love is faced with a criminal sexual conduct charge, then you need to consult a Minneapolis criminal defense attorney right away. Without the proper legal advice and proceedings, you may be facing serious fines and a criminal conviction that can negative impact the rest of your life.

Sex Crimes Charges and Degrees

There are five different degrees of criminal sexual conduct which will depend on the age of the victim relative to the perpetrator as well as if sexual penetration occurred:

Fifth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct – any non consensual sexual contact, including any attempt to remove clothing over intimate parts can be seen as a fifth degree criminal sexual conduct. Fifth degree criminal sexual conduct charges are considered gross misdemeanors.

Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct – fourth degree criminal sexual conduct include proof of sexual conduct (not sexual penetration) in victims aged 13 or younger (if the defendant is less than three years of age), aged 13-15 (if the defendant is 4 years older or in a position of authority).

Third Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct – in third degree sex crimes, proof of sexual penetration must be given. Third degree criminal sexual conduct occurs if the victim is under 13 and the defendant is less than three years older, if the victim is aged 13-15 and the defendant is 2 years older or if the victim is aged 16 or 17 and the defendant has a significant relationship to the victim.

Second Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct – second degree sex crimes will need proof of ‘sexual contact’ as well as the same elements as listed under first degree criminal sexual conduct. There is no need for ‘sexual penetration’ to be charged with second degree criminal sexual conduct.

First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct – first degree sex crimes occur when the victim is under 13 and the defendant is three years older. It can also occur in instances when the victim is aged 13-15 and the defendant is four years older, or if the victim is under 16 and the defendant has a significant relationship to the victim. First degree offenses can include children sexual abuse cases and is considered the most severe in sex crimes. Sexual penetration must be proven. Additional factors of first degree sex crime charges include if a weapon was used or threatened, if the victim suffered reasonable fear of great bodily harm, if the defendant caused personal injury to the victim or if the defendant was aided by accomplices.

Criminal Sexual Conduct Defenses

Being accused of a criminal sexual conduct can be like a slap in the face where the harsh sting lasts forever. You may be able to prove you are not guilty by employing a number of defense strategies including an alibi (during the time of the crime you were somewhere else) or credibility (the victim’s story is shaky; the police records are unaccounted for, etc which can affect the credibility of the story). Only an experienced Minneapolis criminal defense attorney will be able to determine the best defense strategy for your situation. This will depend on the facts surrounding the alleged rape claim as well as additional factors involved.

Minneapolis Criminal Sexual Conduct Attorney

If you have been charged with any sex crime or related criminal sexual conduct offense, your best defense is to contact Olson Law Firm as soon as possible. For a free consultation regarding your case and your options, contact Olson Law Firm today at 612-816-2322.