St. Paul Sex Crimes Lawyer
Defense for Sexual Offense Accusations in Dakota County and Washington County
Being accused of a sex crime is serious. In a few cases, a misdemeanor charge may be levied; however, most are felony offenses. Regardless of the level, an accusation and conviction can have life-altering consequences. If you're found guilty, you could be sentenced to years in prison and could be ordered to pay high fines. Additionally, depending on the circumstances, you may be required to register as a sex offender. You could face numerous hurdles as you try to live your life as you had before the allegations.
If you're facing a sex crime charge, you need the aggressive defense our St. Paul attorneys provide. Throughout or 80+ years of combined experience, our lawyers have handled tens of thousands of cases, including hundreds of jury trials. We know the laws and the court systems, and we are well-respected in the legal community. When you hire us, we'll put our knowledge, skills, and resources to work for you. We know how important your case is to you, which is why we will never do what's convenient or easy, but what’s in your best interest. Our firm will zealously advocate on your behalf and will work toward a favorable outcome in your case.
A Comprehensive Guide to Your Rights for the Accused
Facing allegations of a sex crime can be one of the most distressing experiences an individual can encounter. At Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, we recognize the importance of being informed about your legal rights and options. Our dedicated team is here to provide clear and concise information to help you navigate this challenging time.
Here are key points to understand when facing sex crime accusations:
- Your Right to Remain Silent: It's essential to know that you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Always consider consulting with an attorney before discussing your case with anyone.
- The Importance of Legal Representation: Having a skilled attorney on your side is crucial. We can help you understand the charges against you, protect your rights, and build a strong defense.
- Potential Defenses: Depending on the specifics of your case, there may be various defenses available, including lack of consent, mistaken identity, or false allegations.
- Pleas and Sentencing: Understanding your plea options and the potential consequences of each is vital. Our attorneys will guide you through plea negotiations to seek the most favorable outcome possible.
- Confidentiality and Support: We ensure that all aspects of your case are handled with the utmost discretion. Additionally, we provide support and resources to help you manage the stress and emotional toll of the situation.
Don't navigate this complex legal landscape alone. Contact Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC today to schedule a confidential consultation. Let our experienced St. Paul sex crime defense lawyers fight for your rights and your future.
At Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, we're ready to stand up for you and protect your rights and freedoms. Contact our St. Paul sex crimes attorney at (651) 413-9004 today.
What Sets Us Apart
Our team of skilled and understanding professionals proudly provides comprehensive and efficient services for all Clients.
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Serving St. Paul Since 1948
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Over 50 Years of Collective Experience
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Tens of Thousands of People Helped
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Hundreds of Jury Trials Handled
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Highly Involved in the Local Legal Community
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Prepare Every Case for Trial
Minnesota's Sex Crimes Laws
A sex crime is an offense against another person that involves some type of sexual conduct. Minnesota has various laws prohibiting specific behavior, and these offenses may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies.
Types of Sex Crimes in Minnesota: Legal Consequences
A few examples of sex crimes include:
- First-degree criminal sexual conduct: This offense occurs when a person has sex with another and uses threats, causes injury, commits the act with an accomplice, has a dangerous weapon, or engages in the conduct with a minor. A conviction may lead to up to 30 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $40,000.
- Second-degree criminal sexual conduct: A person may be charged with this offense if they touch another individual’s intimate parts, and the other person was a minor, the actor had a dangerous weapon on them, the conduct caused injury to the other person, the actor and other person were in a significant relationship and the other person was a minor. This crime is a felony and could lead to up to 25 years in prison and a maximum fine of $35,000.
- Third-degree criminal sexual conduct: An offense is committed when a person engages in a sex act with another individual. Various factors will determine whether the crime is charged as third-degree criminal sexual conduct, including the age of the alleged victim, the actor’s relationship with the alleged victim, the alleged victim’s mental state, or whether force or coercion was used to commit the offense. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction may lead to up to 5 years or up to 15 years in prison. A maximum fine of $30,000 may also be assessed.
- Fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct: This charge is levied when a person sexually contacts another and the other person was a minor, force or coercion was used, the actor was the individual’s psychotherapist, or the actor had a specific position of power of the other person. The potential conviction penalties include up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $20,000.
- Fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct: If a person has nonconsensual sex with another or they masturbate or expose their genitals to someone under 16 years of age, they may be charged with this offense. Depending on the circumstances, it’s either a gross misdemeanor, with punishments that include up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $3,000, or a felony that carries penalties including up to 7 years’ imprisonment and/or a maximum $14,000 fine.
- Child pornography: A person who distributes or possesses a visual image or video depicting a minor engaged in sexual conduct may be charged with this offense. Dissemination results in imprisonment for up to 15 years and/or a fine of up to $20,000. Possession can lead to a 5-year prison sentence and a maximum fine of $5,000.
- Solicitation of prostitution and sex trafficking: A person who solicits or promotes prostitution or sex trafficking of a minor or adult may be charged with a first- or second-degree offense. The penalties for first-degree solicitation or promotion include imprisonment for up to 20 years and/or a fine of up to $50,000. A second-degree offense may result in up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $40,000.
- Solicitation of a minor: It is an offense to use any type of electronic communication to solicit a minor to engage in sexual conduct, send sexually explicit messages to a minor, or distribute material involving sexual conduct to a minor. A conviction may lead to a maximum of 3 years’ imprisonment and/or a maximum fine of $5,000.
Get Started on Your Defense Today
In a sex crimes case, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. At Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, we will scour every detail of your situation to spot weaknesses in the State's accusations. Additionally, we'll listen to your side of the story to develop an innovative defense strategy tailored for you.
Ready to fight your charge? Contact our St. Paul sex crimes attorneys at (651) 413-9004 today.
