Being charged with criminal sexual misconduct can have very serious implications. Criminal sexual conduct relates to a wide range of crimes, including rape. If you are facing criminal sexual misconduct charges in Minnesota, you need an experienced defense attorney to help build your case.


Understanding Criminal Sexual Misconduct

In the state of Minnesota, there are six degrees of criminal sexual misconduct. The most serious charge is first-degree criminal sexual misconduct. The degree of a sexual misconduct charged is based on a variety of factors, including injury, level of threat, and age of both the victim and the defendant. In the state of Minnesota, a first-degree charge requires “sexual penetration” and at least one of the following:

  •  The victim sustained personal injury;
  • There was a risk of great bodily harm;
  • There was threat or use of a dangerous weapon at any point during the act;
  • The victim was mentally or physically impaired; or
  • The defendant acted as an accomplice during a forced sexual act.

The age of the victim and defendant can also play a role in a first degree sexual misconduct charge based on any of the following:

  • The victim is under the age of 13 and the defendant is at least 3 years older;
  • The victim is between the ages of 13 and 15 and the defendant is at least 4 years older and in a position of authority; or
  • The victim is under the age of 16 and has a significant relationship with the defendant.

The penalty for a first-degree sexual misconduct, or rape, conviction can be up to 30 years in prison. In many cases, there are subtle differences between the degrees of sexual misconduct. Having a qualified Minnesota defense attorney can help you understand your situation, and ensure you aren’t facing the wrong charges.


Criminal Sexual Misconduct Lawyer

A charge of criminal sexual misconduct can have lifetime implications. The moment you are aware of any potential charges against you, it’s essential to hire an experienced defense lawyer to help build your case. The right criminal sexual misconduct attorney can help reduce your charges and penalties, or even get your charges dropped altogether. With a good lawyer on your side, you also may not face as much stigma from society.

A false, or unexpected, charge of criminal sexual misconduct is especially difficult. Your defense lawyer will help build a case that may get your charges dropped. A conviction can lead to jail time and entry in the federal sex offender registry. This can place strict limitations on where you can live or work in the future. Any criminal sexual conviction can have lifetime implications. Having the best defense lawyer on your side can help you get back to living your life.


Always A Free Consultation

If have been charged with criminal sexual misconduct, then you need us on your side. At the Brown Law Offices, P.A., we work hard to make sure you get the best possible outcome. Our attorneys never cast judgment on you, regardless of guilt or innocence, and we always fight to make sure you get your life back. We will defend your case anywhere in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area – and beyond. Don’t let a sexual misconduct charge affect your entire future. Call us today at 763-783-5146, or complete our free online consultation form.