St. Paul Sex Crime Lawyer
Legal Protection Against Serious Sex Crime Charges 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 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 the life you had before the allegations.
If you're facing a sex crime charge, you need the aggressive defense our St. Paul attorneys provide. Throughout our 80+ years of combined experience, our lawyers have handled tens of thousands of cases, including hundreds of jury trials. We know the laws and court systems and 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 your case is essential to you, so 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 work toward a favorable outcome.
Effective defense starts with understanding every aspect of the allegations against you. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your charge, examining all the evidence and witnesses. This comprehensive approach allows us to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and secure the best possible defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. With our intimate knowledge of the local courts and their procedures, we are equipped to anticipate and counter the tactics used by the prosecution.
Charged with a serious offense and unsure where to turn? Call Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC today at (651) 413-9004 or contact us online to protect your rights from the very beginning.
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, various defenses may be available, including lack of consent, mistaken identity, or false allegations.
- Pleas & Sentencing: It is vital to understand your plea options and the potential consequences of each. Our attorneys will guide you through plea negotiations to seek the most favorable outcome possible.
- Confidentiality & 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.
Addressing a complex legal battle requires a multipronged strategy. We focus not only on the immediate legal needs but also on the long-term implications of any resolution. Should your case proceed to trial, our team is ready to provide a vigorous defense based on meticulous preparation and persuasive presentation. We stand by you at every step, answering your queries and ensuring you always know where your case stands.
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 future.
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 sexual conduct. Minnesota has various laws prohibiting specific behavior, and these offenses may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies.
Understanding the gravity of sex crime charges and their consequences requires a nuanced view of Minnesota’s legislative framework. Laws are dynamically updated to reflect societal values, with rigid penalties crafted to deter wrongful conduct. Our attorneys stay abreast of these legislative changes to ensure our defense strategies remain relevant and practical, offering you peace of mind that you are in knowledgeable hands.
Types of Sex Crimes in Minnesota: Legal Consequences
A few examples of sex crimes include:
- First-degree a href="/criminal-defense/sex-crimes/criminal-sexual-conduct/">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, 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. A conviction may lead to up to 5 or 15 years in prison, depending on the circumstances. 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 over 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 with 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 sentence and a maximum fine of $5,000.
- Solicitation of prostitution & 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 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.
Your Rights & The Legal Process in St. Paul
Understanding your rights when faced with criminal accusations is crucial. In St. Paul, the legal process for sex crime charges follows specific steps, starting with an investigation, followed by charges, court appearances, and potentially a trial. Throughout this process, safeguarding your rights is paramount. You have the right to remain silent, the right to legal counsel, and the right to a fair trial. Our team is adept at navigating these intricacies, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected at every stage.
The courts in Dakota and Washington Counties often deal with complex sexual offense cases that require a deep understanding of both state law and local judicial nuances. Being familiar with the judges, prosecutors, and the idiosyncrasies of the courts allows us to plan effectively and work towards achieving the best possible outcome.
What to Expect in St. Paul Courts
When facing a sex crime charge in St. Paul, it’s crucial to understand what to expect from the court process. Typically, cases begin with an arraignment, where you will be formally charged. As your case progresses, you may experience pre-trial hearings, plea bargain discussions, and a trial if necessary. Each step requires careful preparation and strategic planning.
Judges in St. Paul are known for adhering to state law while considering each case's circumstances and nuances. Our attorneys have significant experience in these courts, allowing us to navigate the system effectively. We leverage our understanding of local court customs and procedures to advocate effectively on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and you have the best chance for a favorable outcome.
Contact Our St. Paul Sex Crimes Attorney 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 to you.
Our approach is proactive and thorough. It involves consultations with experts, detailed evidence review, and the utilization of advanced forensic techniques to challenge any forensic evidence presented. We collaborate with local investigators to uncover information that might be overlooked, enhancing the robustness of your defense.
Take the first step toward defending your future. Contact a skilled St. Paul sex crime lawyer at Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If I Am Accused of a Sex Crime in St. Paul?
If you are accused of a sex crime in St. Paul, it is crucial to remain calm and prioritize obtaining legal representation immediately. Refrain from speaking with law enforcement without an attorney, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact a qualified sex crime attorney in St. Paul, like those at Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, who can guide you through the legal process, advise you on your rights, and help build a robust defense from the outset.
How Does Minnesota Define Consent?
Minnesota law defines consent as a voluntary agreement to engage in a particular sexual act. It must be given freely and with complete comprehension of the situation, without coercion, intimidation, or manipulation involved. In the context of sex crimes, lack of consent is a critical component that can significantly impact the legal proceedings of a case. Individuals who are forced, intimidated, or otherwise coerced into sexual activity have not given valid consent, and such allegations can form a basis for defense.
What Can I Expect from the Legal Process for Sex Crimes in St. Paul?
The legal process for sex crimes in St. Paul typically begins with an investigation, followed by the formal charging of the accused individual. As the case progresses, you may encounter a series of court appearances, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, and potentially a trial. It is essential to have experienced legal counsel to guide you through each phase, ensuring that your defense is strategically crafted and effectively executed. Our team’s familiarity with local courts and their procedures allows us to navigate this process precisely and confidently.
