What are the Degrees of Child Sexual Assault in Wisconsin?
Criminal charges and penalties for a child sexual assault conviction in Wisconsin are some of the most serious that a person could face. Wisconsin recognizes 2 degrees of child sexual assault – both of which are felonies. If the accused sustains a conviction for either, they will have to register as an offender on the state registry. Any way you look at it, there’s a lot riding on the line if you are facing one of these charges.
The experienced attorneys at Cohen Law Offices understand the seriousness of a criminal sexual assault charge and what’s at stake. Our aggressive legal team will work hard to protect your legal rights while your criminal case is pending and will aggressively advocate for you at all hearings in your case.
To learn more about how we could assist with defending you against your pending criminal charge, please call Cohen Law Offices today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online.
First Degree Child Sexual Assault
First-degree child sexual assault is sometimes a Class A felony. A person can incur this charge if they have sexual contact or intercourse with a child who is under 13 years of age – and it causes the victim to experience severe bodily harm.
Under certain circumstances, first-degree child sexual assault can be a Class B felony, such as where:
· The accused has sexual intercourse with a child less than 12 years of age
· The accused has sexual intercourse or contact with a child under 13 years of age
· The accused has sexual contact with a child less than 16 years old via threat of violence or force, and the accused is over 18
· The accused has intercourse with a child under 16 years of age via force or violence
Second Degree Child Sexual Assault
An individual could incur a charge for second-degree child sexual assault – a Class C felony – if they have sexual intercourse or contact with a child who is under 16 years of age. In Wisconsin, marriage is no defense to a second-degree child sexual assault charge. Moreover, the accused individual may not contend that the alleged victim was deceased at the time of the alleged sexual intercourse or contact.
Contact Cohen Law Offices Today
Child sexual assault charges can have far-reaching legal and personal consequences. In addition to incurring fines, jail time, and other legal penalties upon conviction, you will also be required to register as a sex offender on the state registry. Therefore, if you are facing child sexual assault charges, it is imperative that you retain an experienced lawyer to represent you as soon as possible. We could help you raise a legal defense to your charge, and if you ultimately sustain a conviction, we can represent you at your sentencing hearing and argue for a fair penalty.
For a free case evaluation and consultation with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, please call Cohen Law Offices today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online.
