Have you been accused of a sex crime in Minnesota? Unfortunately, a single charge can follow you for the rest of your life, affecting your home, work and social lives drastically. If you’re facing a sex-crime charge, or if you fear charges are on their way, read this article and then reach out to an experienced defense attorney immediately.
The Various Categories of Sex Offenses in Minnesota
Minnesota has an extensive and complex series of statutes under which it can charge you, with widely varying sentences and fines. Minnesota’s many categories of sex offenses include:
- First, Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
- Criminal sexual predatory conduct
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Child pornography, sex with a minor, child molestation
- Internet sex crimes
- Rape
- Lewd acts with a minor
- Sexual Assault
- Sexual Misconduct
The age and relationship of the victim and the accused, whether a weapon is involved, if the victim was impaired or helpless, or if there was an accomplice all can affect the severity of the charges and possible sentence. A first-degree felony can result in 30 years in jail and $40,000 in fines. The state can charge sex crimes as misdemeanors or felonies and everything in-between.
You’re Entitled to a Defense; and Have Options to Clear Your Name and Reputation
First and foremost, know that you deserve a defense. Not only do you deserve one; you’re entitled one. Charges can affect your employment, your professional license or your ability to spend time with your own children. An experienced attorney understands the long-term consequences of these charges and how to defend you against them.
Your defense options may include:
- Challenging the reliability of DNA evidence and testing the prosecution is using against you
- Discovering whether the accuser lied about his or her age or ability to consent
- Investigating the accuser’s activity on social networking sites and whether he or she has a previous criminal history or has not been truthful with police
- Locating supporting witnesses or events that provide an alibi to prove that you could not have committed the crime
Contact a Sex Crimes Lawyer in Minnesota Immediately
Being charged with a sex crime can be life-altering, even if you are ultimately proven innocent. The stigma of a sex crime charge never fully goes away—your name could be listed in national databases for sex offenders or sexual predators.
It’s important to get in touch with us right away whether the State has already charged you, served you with a search warrant or you suspect the State may charge you in the future.
In sex crimes cases, you need a vigorous defense strategy that leaves no stone unturned. Contact White & Associates to set up a consultation about your case. We will evaluate the facts and begin working to defend you and minimize the consequences to you and your reputation.
