St. Charles, Illinois Sexual Assault Attorneys

Respected Sexual Assault Attorneys Advocating for Clients in St. Charles, Illinois

Sexual assault charges are among the most serious criminal accusations a person can face in Illinois. The consequences of a conviction extend far beyond fines or jail time—they can include mandatory registration as a sex offender, irreparable damage to a person's reputation, loss of employment, and permanent harm to personal and professional relationships. Even before a case goes to trial, a mere accusation can lead to public scrutiny and significant emotional distress. Defending against these accusations with the help of a criminal defense attorney is crucial.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our lawyers have been providing legal representation for people charged with sex crimes and other offenses since 1986. We have defended people from all walks of life, including doctors, teachers, musicians, athletes, public officials, and business leaders. We understand the high stakes involved in sexual assault cases, and we provide our clients with strategic and aggressive legal representation focused on protecting their rights.

The Role of Consent in Sexual Assault Cases

At the heart of most sexual assault charges is the issue of consent. If one party does not voluntarily agree to engage in sexual conduct, or a person is incapable of giving consent due to age, mental disability, or intoxication, any sexual contact may be considered a criminal offense.

In court, determining whether consent was given is often one of the most contested aspects of a sexual assault case. These cases may involve little to no physical evidence, and they may rely heavily on the testimonies of the accuser and the accused. Our attorneys are experienced in carefully analyzing the facts, identifying inconsistencies in witness statements, and uncovering evidence that supports our client's version of events.

Criminal Offenses That Constitute Sexual Assault in Illinois

Illinois law defines several offenses under the broad category of sexual assault. Specific charges may include:

• Criminal Sexual Assault: This offense involves an act of sexual penetration committed using force or in a situation where the victim was unable to give consent. It may also apply if a person is accused of engaging in sexual intercourse with a family member under the age of 18 or if someone in a position of trust or authority, such as a teacher or coach, is accused of having intercourse with a victim between the ages of 13 and 17. This offense is a Class 1 felony, punishable by 4 to 15 years in prison.
• Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault: This offense includes the same elements as criminal sexual assault but with one or more aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon, a victim who suffered an injury, an offense perpetrated by multiple people, or a victim who was under the age of 13, over the age of 60, or disabled. This offense is classified as a Class X felony, the most serious category of felony under Illinois law. Penalties include 6 to 30 years in prison. Extended sentences may apply in certain situations, with a potential sentence of up to 60 years or life imprisonment for particularly egregious offenses.
• Criminal Sexual Abuse: This offense involves sexual conduct other than intercourse in situations involving the use of force or the inability of a victim to give consent. Sexual intercourse or sexual conduct between an adult and a victim between the ages of 13 and 17 may also be considered sexual abuse if the alleged perpetrator is no more than five years older than the alleged victim. This offense is generally charged as a Class 4 felony, with penalties that may include a sentence ranging from one to three years in prison.
• Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse: This offense includes the same elements as criminal sexual abuse but with aggravating factors such as causing injuries, using a weapon, or a victim who was at least 60 years old or disabled. An adult who engages in sexual conduct with a victim under the age of 13 may also be charged with this offense. Sexual intercourse or sexual conduct between an adult and a victim between the ages of 13 and 17 may be considered aggravated sexual abuse if the alleged perpetrator is at least five years older than the alleged victim. Aggravated criminal sexual abuse is usually charged as a Class 2 felony, carrying a possible sentence of three to seven years in prison. A person in a position of authority who engages in sexual conduct with a victim under the age of 18 may be charged with a Class 1 felony, which can lead to a potential prison sentence ranging from four to 15 years.

Contact Our St. Charles, IL Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers

Sexual assault allegations can devastate a person's life, career, and relationships. When you have been accused of sexual assault in St. Charles or the surrounding areas, swift and strategic legal action is critical. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we are ready to provide you with representation designed to protect your rights and reputation. Contact our office by calling 630-786-6062 to schedule a free and confidential consultation and begin building your defense.