Minnesota Sexual Misconduct Defense Attorney – Your Ally in Challenging Times


Have you been accused of a sexual related offense in Minnesota? By partnering with an experienced sexual misconduct defense attorney, you can fight these allegations and protect your rights, reputation, and future. Simply reach out to the team at Universal Defense, and we'll help guide you through this difficult time by building a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.

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Severity Levels of Criminal Sexual Conduct
The state categorizes criminal sexual conduct into degrees based on the severity of the alleged crime, the nature of the sexual act, the age of the victim, and whether any aggravating factors exist. For example, you may be facing one or more of the following charges:
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Fifth-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
Fifth degree criminal sexual conduct often involves non-consensual touching or sexual contact. It could also include lewd behavior in the presence of a child. Depending on the severity, it may be charged as a gross misdemeanor or felony. While considered the lowest degree, it’s still important to work with a Minnesota sex crimes defense lawyer to protect your rights and avoid unnecessary penalties, including registration.
Fourth-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
Fourth-degree charges involve non-penetrative sexual contact that may include force, coercion, or the victim’s inability to consent. Factors to consider in this statute are the victim’s age, their relationship to the alleged offender, the use of force, repeated incidents, or the presence of an injury. If convicted, this charge would be an automatic felony, with mandatory registration and a maximum prison sentence of ten years.
Third-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
Third degree criminal sexual conduct differs from fifth and fourth degree because it involves sexual penetration. This may be accompanied by either force, coercion, mental impairment, or a victim that is unable to consent. Many cases of statutory rape, when the victim in under the age of 18, are charged as third degree criminal sexual conduct. A conviction of this charge is an automatic felony, with mandatory registration and a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Second-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
These charges involve sexual contact under coercive or violent circumstances, or when an alleged victim is unable to consent. These allegations are similar to first-degree charges, but they involve sexual contact, not penetration. Penalties for this felony offense could include 25 years imprisonment and lifetime sexual offender registration, depending on the age of the victim.
First-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
This is the most severe sexual assault charge in Minnesota, involving forceful sexual penetration of an adult or sexual contact with a victim under the age of 14. Aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon, threats of serious bodily harm, or multiple acts over a period of time can elevate the offense to the first degree. It is vital you hire an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible if you are facing allegations of first degree criminal sexual conduct. Maximum penalties of this felony could include 30 years imprisonment and lifetime offender registration.
Penalties for Sex Crimes in Minnesota
The consequences of a sex crime conviction in Minnesota can be severe and long-lasting. Depending on the specific charge, penalties may include:
- Substantial fines.
- Lengthy supervised probation.
- Mandatory treatment and programming.
- Lengthy prison sentences, potentially up to 30 years.
- Mandatory minimum of 10 years on the sex offender registry.
- Potential lifetime registry for the most severe offenses.
- Loss of civil rights as a convicted felon, including firearm rights, voting rights, etc.
- Difficulty finding housing and employment.
- Loss of professional licenses.
- Loss of child custody or visitation rights.
These penalties highlight the importance of working with an experienced criminal sexual conduct lawyer who can effectively challenge the charges against you and advocate for the best possible outcome.
How Can We Help?
The stigma associated with sexual offenses can devastate your personal and professional life. As a Minnesota sex crimes attorney with over three decades of experience, Richard LeRoy has successfully defended thousands of clients against criminal sexual charges. With the right legal representation, you have a fighting chance to clear your name and move forward with your life.
When you work with our sex crime lawyers, you can expect:

Speak to a Sex Crime Defense Lawyer Today
If you're facing sex crime charges in Minnesota, don't let fear or shame prevent you from seeking the legal representation you deserve. We've defended thousands of clients against charges ranging from misdemeanor indecent exposure to felony first degree criminal sexual conduct. With over 25 years of nonprofit work and specialty court practice in Hennepin County, we understand the broader social and systemic issues that often intersect with sex crime cases. This unique perspective allows us to provide representation that addresses not just the legal aspects of your case but how these allegations may impact your personal and professional life.
Contact Universal Defense today for a confidential consultation with a Minnesota sex crimes lawyer. We'll listen to your story without judgment, explain your legal options, and work tirelessly to protect your rights. We can also provide drug defense and violent crime defense if needed.