
St. Charles, IL Sex Crimes Attorneys
Skilled Sex Crimes Lawyers Supporting Clients in St. Charles, Illinois
Being accused of a sex crime can be a very frightening experience. In Illinois, many sex offenses are charged as felonies, and a conviction can result in years or even decades of prison time, as well as steep fines, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and long-term or permanent damage to a person's reputation and personal relationships. Public accusations may lead to the loss of a job, and they could also affect issues such as child custody and the ability to find a place to live.
Understanding the best ways to respond to accusations of sex crimes can be difficult, which is why legal representation from a skilled and experienced attorney is so important. Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. provides effective legal help for people in these situations, helping to determine the ideal defense strategies that will address different types of charges. We treat our clients with compassion and work to protect their dignity, and we will work to challenge unjust accusations and secure the best possible outcome in every case.
Types of Sex Crime Cases We Handle
We represent clients charged with a wide range of sex offenses, including:
- Sexual Assault: Accusations of non-consensual sexual conduct or sexual intercourse can lead to felony charges. In these cases, our attorneys will evaluate forensic evidence, statements by witnesses, and the conduct of law enforcement to build a strong defense.
- Crimes Against Children: Illinois law imposes harsh penalties for people who are convicted of offenses involving minors. Charges such as online solicitation of a minor or possession of child pornography can lead to harsh penalties. However, these allegations often involve limited physical evidence, they may be based on statements made by minors, digital communications, or internet activity. We can challenge the accuracy of digital forensics, question the reliability of witnesses, and scrutinize how evidence was obtained in cases involving child-related charges.
- Prostitution and Solicitation: People who are accused of agreeing to perform sexual favors in return for payment may be charged with prostitution, while those who offer to pay someone for sexual activity may be charged with solicitation. While these offenses are usually charged as misdemeanors, felony charges may apply for repeat offenders. Other charges, such as promotion of prostitution, can lead to more serious penalties. Our firm works to defend clients charged with prostitution-related offenses by examining the legality of police conduct and investigating possible entrapment or procedural violations.
- Indecent Exposure: A person may be accused of public indecency if they expose their private parts in public or engage in sexual acts or lewd conduct in the presence of others. This is usually a misdemeanor offense, but felony charges may apply if minors were present. In these cases, we may take steps to prove a lack of intent, or we may question whether an arrest was based on mistaken identity.
- Revenge Pornography: The non-consensual distribution of private sexual images is a criminal offense. A person may be charged with this offense if they share private images or videos without a person's consent with the intent of causing embarrassment, emotional distress, or other forms of harm. Posting revenge porn online or sharing it with others is a felony offense. When addressing these charges, we can examine the origin of the images in question and use constitutional and privacy-related defenses when applicable.
Defense Strategies for Sex Crime Charges
These cases often involve sensitive and emotionally charged allegations. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we work with our clients to determine the best defense strategies to use, such as:
- Consent: We may demonstrate that sexual activity was voluntary and mutually agreed upon.
- False accusations: We can uncover motives for fabricated or exaggerated claims, such as personal conflicts, divorce, custody disputes, or revenge.
- Mistaken identity: We can challenge the accuracy of witness identification, especially when the accusation is based on limited or circumstantial evidence.
- Insufficient evidence: We can expose weaknesses in forensic testing, inconsistencies in witness statements, or a lack of corroborating evidence.
- Violation of constitutional rights: We can address improper police conduct, unlawful searches, or coerced confessions.
Our attorneys conduct a comprehensive investigation and, when appropriate, we will work with forensic experts, medical professionals, and investigators to build a strong defense. We can also help our clients explore the possibility of reduced charges or dismissals based on weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Contact Our St. Charles Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer
When addressing sex crime charges in St. Charles, Kane County, or other parts of the greater Chicago area, it is critical to have a knowledgeable and determined attorney in your corner. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we are ready to provide you with a strategic defense to address the complex, sensitive issues involved in these cases. Contact us and arrange a free consultation by calling 630-786-6062 today.