Sexual Assault

Protecting Your Rights And Freedom In Sexual Assault Cases

The mere accusation of a sexual assault can cause upheaval in a person’s life. If you are facing sexual assault accusations or formal charges, it is time to seek legal representation.

At Law Offices of Harris & Literski, we have extensive experience handling a range of criminal defense cases, including sexual assault and other sex offenses. Our attorneys and staff know what is at stake and work to protect you at every stage of the case.

What Is Sexual Assault?

Michigan law describes sexual assault as “unwanted sexual contact.” This can take on many different forms, including rape, child sexual abuse, incest and other criminal sexual situations. It is important to know that regardless of the type of sex crime charge you are facing, your freedom and future are at stake

The consequences for a conviction on a sexual assault charge range from jail time, monetary fines to rehabilitation.

One of the most impactful consequences is the requirement to register as a sex offender. Certain sex crimes require this as part of the sentencing, and it can impact your entire future. Registration as a sex offender can prevent you from gaining housing, employment and other opportunities.

Degrees Of Criminal Sexual Conduct

Under Michigan law, there are four level of criminal sexual conduct.

The language in Michigan law says first-degree criminal sexual conduct is a sexual act involving penetration and any of the following:

Victim is under 13 years old
Victim is 13-15 years old, plus is a blood affiliation to the defendant, lives in the defendant’s household, or the defendant is in an authority position to the victim
Multiple actors are involved and force/coercion was used to accomplish the sexual penetration or the victim is incapacitated
Weapon involved
Personal injury, plus force/coercion used
Personal injury, plus victim is incapacitated, or
Defendant is in the process of committing another felony

Punishment is lifetime imprisonment and lifetime mandatory sex offender registration.

Second degree is:

Sexual contact (no penetration) with the genital area, groin, inner thigh, buttock or breast, and any of the circumstances listed for first-degree criminal sexual conduct

Punishment is up to 15 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.

Third degree is sexual penetration and any of the following:

Victim is 13-15 years old
Force or coercion used, or
Victim incapacitated

Punishment is up to 15 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.

Fourth degree is sexual contact and any of the following:

Force or coercion used
Victim incapacitated
Defendant works for the Department of Corrections and the victim is an inmate

Punishment is up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $500.

Why You Need A Defense Lawyer

Defending yourself against sexual assault charges may be what you want to do, but it is not the wise way to protect yourself. Having an experienced attorney on your side is the most effective way to ensure your rights are protected and your voice is heard in the case.

Your defense attorney can also help minimize any consequences you are facing. A sexual assault conviction can send you to jail for a number of years and require you to pay fines. Fighting those charges effectively is extremely important.

Sex Offenses

Talk To Us About Your Case

You do not have to face your sexual assault charges alone. Call our office at 810-626-3281 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.

Sexual Assault

Protecting Your Rights And Freedom In Sexual Assault Cases

What Is Sexual Assault?

Degrees Of Criminal Sexual Conduct

Why You Need A Defense Lawyer

Sex Offenses

Talk To Us About Your Case

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