Rape and Sexual Assault

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Almost no other accusation can do as much damage to your reputation and future as being accused of Rape or Sexual Assault. Whether innocent or guilty, if your defense is not properly handled from the beginning, the mere accusation is enough to haunt you for the rest of your life. For these reasons, if you are accused of a sex crime such as rape, sexual assault, or date rape in Illinois, you may decide that plea-bargaining is not an option.

This page gives a very general overview of the procedures, penalties, and defenses involved in an Illinois sex crimes prosecution. Every case is unique and the law is constantly changing, so there is no substitute for having the facts of your case analyzed by an experienced Illinois sex crimes lawyer.

How Can I Beat a Rape Accusation?

Sex crimes are a highly complex, fact specific area of the law, and a complete list of offenses and defenses is not practical. One thing that applies in almost all rape and sexual assault cases, however, is the importance of an early factual investigation. The earlier a rape accusation is prepared for trial the stronger your position will be, the better the offer by the prosecution, and the more likely you will not have to go to trial if you so choose. I have personally seen accusations of rape made against my clients fall apart when time was taken to interview witnesses, research the accuser’s background, and track down video, text messages, and phone records. Please read my blog post The Importance of Early Investigation in Rape and Sexual Abuse Accusations in Illinois for more on this important strategy for defeating accusations of rape and sexual assault.

Caution! Sex Offender Registration

Don't ever plead guilty to a sex offense without first knowing that Illinois requires people who have been convicted of any felony sex offense and some misdemeanor sex offenses to register with law enforcement for a period of years after conviction. As part of the Sex Offender Registration requirement, your name and picture will appear on the Illinois State Police website. Persons enrolled in Sex Offender Registration must re-register with law enforcement every time they move to a new residence.

The burden of Sex Offender Registration is so great that, for many people, pleading guilty is not an option. If pleading guilty is not an option, the only way to free you from the future burden of Sex Offender Registration is to either (a) beat the case, or (b) get the charge reduced to a crime that does not require you to register as a Sex Offender. I have helped my clients do both and I may be able to do the same for you.

Call for a Free Consultation

Facing an accusation of Rape or Sexual Assault Accusation may be the most stressful thing you will ever go through in your life. I’ve helped hundreds defeat criminal charges, or at least control the damage they can cause, and I can guide you through the complex road ahead. If there is a way to beat your case, I will find it. If there is a way to settle your case quickly while keeping your record clean, I will find it. On the way phone calls and email will be answered promptly and you will have direct access to me personally. Call me at 312.789.8050 or contact us online for a free consultation.

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