Chicago Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Experienced Attorneys for Criminal Sexual Abuse

Criminal offenses of a sexual nature are a very serious matter. Because sex crimes can cause serious harm to victims, those who are accused of these types of offenses are likely to be treated harshly by police officers and prosecutors, and they may face severe penalties if they are convicted. Criminal sexual abuse is a charge that may result from certain types of accusations, and while it is generally less serious than sexual assault, a conviction may still lead to consequences such as jail time and large fines, as well as the requirement to register as a sex offender. For those who are facing these types of charges, it is essential to seek professional guidance from a qualified criminal defense attorney.

The Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro understands the difficulties faced by those who are accused of sexual abuse or other sex crimes, and we provide representation in these situations, helping defendants determine their best options. Our experienced lawyer can provide knowledge and advice on the steps that will be followed during your case and the defense strategies that may be available. We will fight to protect your rights throughout your case, and with our assistance, you may be able to have your charges dismissed or reduced.

Criminal Sexual Abuse in Illinois

Charges of criminal sexual abuse may apply in situations where a person engaged in actions that could be considered sexual assault, but no actual penetration occurred. If a person allegedly committed an act of sexual conduct without receiving consent, they may be charged with criminal sexual abuse. Sexual conduct includes touching or fondling a person's sex organs or breasts for the purposes of sexual gratification. It may involve touching someone else, including through their clothing, or causing someone else to touch a person's genitals or breast.

If a person is accused of committing criminal sexual abuse through the use of force or threats of force, or if they allegedly engaged in sexual conduct in a situation where a person was unable to give consent, they may be charged with a Class 4 felony. If they are convicted, they may be sentenced to between one and three years in prison. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 2 felony, and a person may be sentenced to three to seven years in prison. A felony conviction may also result in up to $25,000 in fines.

A person may also be charged with criminal sexual abuse if they are under the age of 17 and are accused of engaging in sexual intercourse or sexual conduct with a person between the ages of nine and 17. For offenders over the age of 17, criminal sexual abuse charges may apply if the victim was between the ages of 13 and 17 and the offender was no more than five years older than the victim. In these cases, criminal sexual abuse is a Class A misdemeanor, and a person who is convicted may be sentenced to a maximum of one year in prison and fined up to $2,500.

Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse

Prosecutors may pursue increased charges in some situations involving accusations of sexual abuse. Aggravating circumstances may include:

• A person engaged in sexual conduct while carrying or using a dangerous weapon or acting in a way that put someone else's life at risk.
• Sexual conduct resulted in bodily harm to the victim.
• The victim was at least 60 years old, was physically disabled, or had severe intellectual impairments.
• Sexual conduct was committed in conjunction with another felony offense.
• A person used a "date rape" drug or otherwise administered substances to the alleged victim that affected their ability to give consent.
• A person engaged in sexual conduct with a family member who was under the age of 18.
• A person over the age of 17 engaged in an act of sexual conduct with a person under the age of 13.
• A person over the age of 17 used force or threats to engage in an act of sexual conduct with a person between the ages of 13 and 17.
• A person under the age of 17 engaged in an act of sexual conduct with a person under the age of nine.
• A person under the age of 17 used force or threats to engage in an act of sexual conduct with a person between the ages of nine and 17.
• A person engaged in sexual penetration or sexual conduct with a person between the age of 13 and 17, and the offender was no more than five years older than the victim.

Aggravated criminal sexual abuse is generally charged as a Class 2 felony. However, if an alleged offender was over the age of 17 and was in a position of trust, authority, or supervision over an alleged victim who was under the age of 18, Class 1 felony charges may apply. A Class 1 felony conviction may result in a prison sentence of four to 15 years.

Contact an Experienced Chicago Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer

When facing charges of criminal sexual abuse, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side who understands the applicable laws and the defense strategies that may be available. At the Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro, we are committed to providing our clients with a strong legal defense and fighting for their rights in court. To arrange a complimentary consultation and get the defense you need, contact us at 312-627-9482.