Sex Crimes

Kalamazoo Sex Crime Attorneys

Representing Those Charged With Sexual Misconduct in Michigan

It is understandable why sex crime cases are seen as especially heinous. These crimes destroy the lives of their victims and have lasting effects well into the future. But, unfortunately, sometimes these crimes are weaponized by the accuser because they know they can ruin the life of the accused.

Prosecutors are notoriously aggressive when pursuing sex offense charges, and they will throw everything they have at you. At Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law, we can’t be intimidated, and we fight back vigorously at every turn.

We know how devastating a sex crime conviction can be to someone. We also know how often the accused’s rights are violated, and we won’t stand for it. If you have been charged with a sex crime in Michigan, reach out to our law firm for guidance. Even if you simply think you are being investigated, you should call a criminal defense attorney in order to prepare for interrogations and get a head start on building a solid defense.

We take every case seriously. To speak with a skilled Kalamazoo sex crime lawyer about your case, call our firm at 269-626-2296 or submit a contact form online.

What are Common Sex Crime Charges?

Most sex crimes are charged as criminal sexual conduct (CSC) and have degrees of severity.

First-degree CSC charges involve sexual penetration with a victim under the age of 13, or between 13 and 16 when the perpetrator has authority over the victim. This can lead to a minimum mandatory sentence of 25 years if the victim is under 13, but can result in a life sentence in prison.

Second-degree CSC charges involve sexual contact without penetration and can result in up to 15 years in prison.

Third-degree CSC includes sexual penetration through force or coercion, leading to potential prison sentences of up to 15 years.

Fourth-degree CSC charges involve non-consensual touching under specific circumstances and are classified as a misdemeanor.

There is no statute of limitations for most serious sex crimes in Michigan, such as rape and sexual assault.

Do You Have to Register as a Sex Offender If Convicted?

If you are convicted of sexual assault, you may face extensive prison sentences (including lifetime sentences), fines, lifetime electronic monitoring, and registration on the Michigan Sex Offender Registry. The Sex Offender Registry is often public, and registration can haunt you forever. It can impede your ability to find housing and employment and can result in ostracization from your community. When required to register as a sex offender, you must adhere to your court order exactly. Failure to register as required can result in strict punishments, including jail time.

Required sex offender registration periods include:

  • 15 years
  • 25 years
  • Lifetime registration

You must do everything in your power to fight mandatory sex offender registration. You can’t do this alone. You should secure representation with a trusted attorney as soon as possible. At Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law, we know that having to register as a sex offender can be devastating to your reputation and life. Since 1987, we have fought hard for our clients, and our record of success speaks for itself. We are prepared to use our extensive knowledge and experience to fight for you.

What is the Age Of Consent in Michigan?

In Michigan, the general age of consent is 16, meaning individuals who are 16 or older can legally engage in consensual sexual activity. However, this age threshold can change depending on the circumstances, particularly when there is an imbalance of power or trust. Statutory rape refers to sexual activity with a person who is legally unable to consent due to their age, even when the act appears consensual.

For example, older individuals in a position of authority or influence over the younger person, such as a teacher, coach, counselor, or clergy member, the law raises the age of consent to 18. This is to protect minors from potential coercion, manipulation, or abuse by those in roles of control or supervision. Engaging in a sexual relationship with someone under the age of 18 in these contexts may lead to serious criminal charges, even when the victim is above the general age of legal consent.

When an authoritative figure is caught having relations with a person under 18, they can be charged with criminal sexual conduct, which carries felony-level penalties.

What Are Common Defenses Against Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges?

When building a solid defense, the goal is to have charges either dismissed or reduced. The following are some of the most common defenses attorneys use:

  • False Accusation: Sometimes, people fabricate claims as a form of revenge, coercion, to impact custody cases, or for other reasons. We will make sure the alleged victim’s claim is credible and not motivated by ulterior motives.
  • Consent: In some cases, a parent may bring these charges against the accused when a relationship involves their children. If the alleged victim is legally capable of consenting, we will use that to our advantage.
  • Mistaken Identity: The accused may have been misidentified, especially in cases with little or no physical evidence and or with unreliable witnesses.
  • Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of their claim beyond a reasonable doubt. Weak evidence can raise serious doubts.
  • Alibi: If the accused is able to provide credible evidence that proves they were elsewhere at the time of the alleged crime, it can fully dismantle the prosecution’s case.

A great criminal defense attorney will work tirelessly to build a solid defense for your case, taking all evidence, witness statements, and the alleged victim into account.

Why Choose Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law for Your Sex Crime Defense?

Levine & Levine Attorneys at Law is a highly regarded, aggressive firm with a proven track record of success. We believe everyone deserves dedicated legal representation, no matter what charges they face. As a practice, we have a reputation for our intellectual rigor and our tireless advocacy for our clients. Our Kalamazoo sex crime defense lawyers are well-known and respected within the legal community.

We defend clients against a wide range of sexual offenses in Michigan, including:

Anyone Can Face Sex Crime Allegations

No one is immune to the possibility of being charged with a sex crime. Misinterpretations of a situation can lead to false accusations. With the Internet becoming a staple in most homes, it is all too possible for one’s computer to be searched and evidence seized to be used in criminal prosecutions.

Defending Your Professional License

For professionals charged or indicted with sex crimes offenses, another key element is the defense of their professional licenses in Michigan. Our firm offers comprehensive defense against sex crimes charges that includes, when necessary, the defense of one’s professional licenses.

We Are Fierce Litigators

Every aspect of your criminal defense case is important. From thoroughly investigating the circumstances that led to your charges to filing all necessary pre-trial motions, preparation is key to a strong defense. As a practice, our firm is deeply grounded in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. With our thorough understanding of the law and the Michigan Penal Code, we know how sex crime cases are tried. Our Kalamazoo sexual offense attorneys are smart, shrewd, and aggressive. Schedule a free consultation with us today.