Joliet Sex Crimes Attorney

Lawyer Representing Clients Charged with Sex Crimes in Joliet, IL

Allegations involving sex crimes are among the most serious types of criminal charges a person can face. A person who is convicted of sexual offenses will face severe legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable legal support in these situations, ensuring that a person's rights will be protected and working to develop successful defense strategies. At Carlson Law Group, P.C., we understand the sensitive nature of sex crimes, and we work to ensure that our clients have effective legal representation as they defend against these charges.

Types of Sexual Offenses

Sexual crimes address a broad range of illegal activities related to sexual conduct, sexual relationships, and allegations of misconduct. Some common types of sex crimes that can lead to severe penalties include:

• Sexual assault: A person who is accused of engaging in non-consensual sexual activity may not only face criminal charges, but their reputation may be permanently damaged. Accusations of forced sexual intercourse, inappropriate touching, or other forms of sexual contact without the victim's consent may lead to criminal prosecution, and convictions can lead to large fines and lengthy prison sentences.
• Child pornography: Allegations of possessing, distributing, or creating explicit images or videos of minors are among the most serious offenses a person can face. While possession of child pornography may result in Class 3 or Class 2 felony charges, production, distribution, or promotion of child pornography will often lead to Class 1 or Class X felony charges.
• Internet sex crimes: Offenses involving the use of the internet to commit illegal sexual acts may include online solicitation of a minor, distributing harmful material to a minor, distributing "revenge pornography," soliciting or promoting prostitution, or other types of crimes. Given the increasing use of digital platforms, internet sex crimes are becoming more prevalent, and they are regularly investigated and prosecuted by law enforcement.

Registration as a Sex Offender

One of the most significant consequences of a sex crime conviction in Illinois is the requirement to register as a sex offender. This registration can have profound and long-lasting effects on a person's life, including restrictions on where they can live, work, and travel. A person will be required to register annually with law enforcement, and in some cases, sex offenders must register every 90 days. They will also be required to register anytime they move or reside in a location for at least three days.

The duration of the registration requirement may vary based on the severity of the crime. The minimum period of sex offender registration is 10 years. However, if a person is designated as a sexual predator, sexually dangerous person, or sexually violent person, they must register as a sex offender for the rest of their life. Failure to comply with registration requirements can result in additional criminal charges and penalties.

Information about registered sex offenders is made publicly available through online databases. This can lead to social stigma, difficulties in finding employment and housing, and ongoing public scrutiny. The sex offender registry will include information such as a person's name and address, their photo, identifying characteristics, and details about the offense.

Defense Strategies for Sex Crime Charges

In cases involving sex crimes, Carlson Law Group, P.C. may employ various defense strategies to protect our clients' rights and help them defend against convictions, including:

• Challenging the credibility of witnesses: We can scrutinize witness testimonies, looking for inconsistencies in their statements, examining their motives, and presenting evidence that challenges their accounts of events.
• Disputing evidence: We may be able to challenge the validity and reliability of physical evidence, such as DNA or forensic findings. We will carefully review the collection, handling, and analysis of evidence to identify any procedural errors or contamination that could undermine its credibility.
• Establishing alibi or lack of opportunity: We may be able to demonstrate that our client did not have the opportunity to commit the alleged offense or were in another location at the time of the alleged crime. Witness testimonies, surveillance footage, and other forms of evidence can support this strategy.
• Consent defense: It may be possible to argue that an act was consensual. This strategy may involve presenting evidence of previous consensual encounters, communications suggesting consent, or behavior indicating that the accuser willingly participated in the act.
• Questioning law enforcement conduct: If police officers engaged in misconduct during an investigation, such as coercive interrogation techniques or violations of the defendant's Miranda rights, Carlson Law Group, P.C. can file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence.

Contact Our Will County Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

When defending against accusations of sex crimes, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is crucial. At Carlson Law Group, P.C., we are dedicated to helping our clients respond to criminal charges and defend against convictions. Contact us and set up a free consultation by calling 815-710-3700.