Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
The Immediate Reality of a Sex Crime Accusation in Chicago
Being accused of a sex offense in Chicago creates immediate legal and personal consequences. Unlike many other criminal allegations, sex crime accusations can affect a person’s life before any court hearing takes place. Employers, family members, and the community may react strongly once the allegation becomes known. In Illinois, prosecutors treat these cases with exceptional seriousness because of the potential harm associated with the alleged conduct.
Illinois criminal law divides offenses into misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors generally involve potential jail sentences of up to 364 days. Felonies carry more severe penalties that may include multiple years in prison. Most sex crimes in Illinois fall into felony classifications. Criminal sexual assault is defined under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.20. Aggravated criminal sexual assault is addressed under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.30. Criminal sexual abuse is outlined under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.50. Predatory criminal sexual assault of a child is addressed under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.40 and carries some of the most severe penalties under Illinois law.
