Buffalo Grove, Illinois Sexual Assault Lawyer

Skilled Representation for People Facing Sexual Abuse and Assault Allegations in Lake County, IL

Perhaps no category of crime has the potential to damage your reputation and completely derail your life more than a sexual offense charge. The social stigma attached to such charges can result in your being found guilty in the court of public opinion long before your trial date arrives. If you find yourself in the position of being charged with a sexual crime such as sexual abuse or sexual assault, it is extremely important that you speak to a knowledgeable Lake County sex crimes defense lawyer at the earliest possible time.

It is likely that you are frightened and anxious about your future, and that you are fully aware of just how high the stakes are. Perhaps the best decision you can make at this juncture is to consult The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C. to determine your best option to move forward. Attorney Gebhardt has practiced for more than 20 years—five of those years as a prosecutor—so he is more able than most to see your issue from both legal perspectives. Attorney Matthew R. Gebhardt will have a goal of minimizing the extremely severe penalties associated with your charges, and preventing you from having to register as a sex offender for many years—or even for the rest of your life.

What Is Criminal Sexual Assault in Illinois?

Criminal sexual assault involves a sexual act committed by force, threat, or without the other person's consent. Illinois law also covers situations where the victim was unable to give consent due to age, a mental disability, or being unconscious at the time of the act. The law recognizes several forms of criminal sexual assault, including situations involving family members, positions of trust or authority, or the use of a weapon during the offense.

Aggravating factors can elevate the severity of the charge. These include causing bodily harm to the victim, threatening the victim with a weapon, or committing the offense along with another person. The presence of these factors can significantly increase the potential penalties a person faces if convicted.

Penalties for Criminal Sexual Abuse in Lake County

Criminal sexual abuse penalties depend on the specific circumstances of the offense and any aggravating factors involved. A conviction for criminal sexual abuse is typically charged as a Class 4 felony, which can carry one to three years in prison and significant fines.

Aggravated criminal sexual abuse, which involves additional factors such as the use of force, a position of trust, or a young victim, is generally charged as a Class 2 felony. This can carry three to seven years in prison, along with mandatory sex offender registration in many cases. A conviction can also affect employment, housing, and personal relationships long after a sentence is served.

Responding to Sexual Assault/Abuse Allegations in Buffalo Grove

Facing an allegation of sexual assault or abuse can be overwhelming, and how a person responds in the early stages can affect the outcome of the case. Avoid speaking with police or investigators without an attorney present, even if the conversation seems informal. Statements made early in an investigation can be misunderstood or used against a person later.

Do not contact the accuser directly, even to try to resolve the situation personally, since this can create additional legal problems. Preserving text messages, emails, and other communications can also help establish a clear timeline of events. Our attorney can begin reviewing the allegations and building a defense as early as possible in the process.

Meet With a Buffalo Grove, Illinois Sexual Assault Defense Attorney

Facing an allegation of this nature can affect every part of a person's life, from relationships to reputation to future opportunities. Contact our Buffalo Grove, IL sexual assault defense lawyer or call 847-239-4703 to schedule a free consultation with The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C.