Kalamazoo Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys

Prosecutors are notoriously hawkish when pursuing sexual assault charges, and they will throw everything they have at you. At Levine & Levine, we can't be intimidated, and we fight back aggressively at every turn.

We know how devastating a sexual assault conviction can be to someone. We also know how often the accused's rights are violated, and we don't stand for it. If you have been charged with sexual assault or believe you are under investigation, reach out to our law firm for guidance.

We take every case seriously. To speak with a skilled lawyer about your case, call our firm at (269) 218-8880 or submit a contact form online.

Levine & Levine 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 sexual assault defense lawyers are well-known and respected within the legal community.

Sexual Assault Charges in Michigan

At its core, sexual assault is defined as non-consensual sexual contact. Coercing, intimidating, or forcing someone to engage in sexual contact, regardless of whether it is penetrative, constitutes sexual assault. In Michigan, sexual assault is legally referred to as criminal sexual conduct (CSC), and you can be charged with CSC in four degrees.

The first three degrees of CSC are felonies, with CSC in the 1^st degree being the most serious charge. CSC in the 4^th degree is a “high court” misdemeanor, and though it doesn't carry as severe penalties upon conviction, it should still be taken just as seriously as any CSC charge. Because CSC 4^th degree carries a two year term of imprisonment upon conviction it is considered a felony for purposes of the habitual offender law in Michigan.

Sexual assault refers to a wide range of circumstances, including:

• Sexual assault in intimate relationships
• Sexual assault of adolescents, teens, and minor children
• Rape
• Statutory rape

The circumstances of your case will affect how you are charged. Prosecutors will consider things like the ages of the people involved, the relationship between them, and if any other crimes were committed at the same time. Some may be surprised to learn that criminal sexual conduct charges do not require a corroborating witness other than the victim, and these crimes can occur between dating or married couples. Even teens can be charged with sexual assault. Depending on the circumstances, they may even be tried as an adult.

Registering as a Sex Offender

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, 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.

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 sexual assault cases are tried. Our Kalamazoo sexual assault defense attorneys are smart, shrewd, and aggressive. Schedule a free consultation with us today.

Levine & Levine provides sexual assault defense services to residents in Southwest Michigan including Calhoun, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties. Contact us today by dialing (269) 218-8880 or fill out a form online.