What is Considered a Sex Crime in New Hope, MN?
Sex crimes are criminal offenses of a sexual nature that can result in serious penalties if you are ultimately convicted of one. If you are convicted of a sex crime in New Hope, Minnesota, you will not only face incarceration among other serious legal penalties, but you will also have to deal with the many personal repercussions associated with such a serious conviction. Individuals convicted of sex crimes often have difficulty finding a job, furthering their education, and finding a place to live. Moreover, depending upon the specific sex crime for which you are convicted, you may be required to register as a sex offender and be identified as such for the remainder of your life.
Although the state of Minnesota does not have a statutory scheme that includes specific sex crimes, such as sexual assault or rape, the state groups all of these crimes under the umbrella of “criminal sexual conduct”, with varying degrees of offenses.
If you have been charged with committing a sex crime, you will need a team of experienced attorneys on your side who regularly defends against such charges in the Minnesota court system. The New Hope, Minnesota sex crime defense lawyers at Gerald Miller, P.A. build a strong strategy for your defense and vigorously advocate for you in court. If a plea deal with the prosecution would best suit your needs under the circumstances, we can also pursue a favorable plea deal on your behalf. Give us a call today to find out more about our legal services and how we may be able to assist you with your criminal defense.
What Are the Various Degrees of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the State of Minnesota?
The Minnesota state criminal code classifies criminal sexual conduct into different degrees of severity, based upon the alleged conduct. First-degree criminal sexual conduct is the most serious degree (in terms of conduct and potential penalties upon conviction), while fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct is the least serious degree. The details of each degree are as follows:
● First-degree criminal sexual conduct – In order for a person to be charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct, they must sexually penetrate another individual, without that individual’s consent, while employing a weapon or violent force. A person can also be charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct if they engage in specific types of conduct with a minor under 13 years of age.
● Second-degree criminal sexual conduct – In order to be charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct, a person must engage in non-consensual sexual conduct that does not involve any type of penetration. However, the accused must use some degree of force to accomplish the act. A person may also be charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct in cases where the alleged victim was incapacitated in some way and/or was very young at the time of the incident.
● Third-degree criminal sexual conduct – In order for an individual to face third-degree sexual criminal sexual conduct charges, they must sexually penetrate an individual without that individual’s consent.
● Fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct – Fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct charges result when the accused individual engages in specific types of non-consensual sexual contact with the alleged victim.
● Fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct – Fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct charges result from the accused engaging in specific types of non-consensual sexual contact and/or lewd conduct with another person.
If you or a person you love is facing any of these criminal sexual conduct charges, the skilled team of New Hope sex crime lawyers at Gerald Miller, P.A. can review the circumstances of your charge and defend you in the state court system.
Registering as a Sex Offender
If you are convicted in New Hope, Minnesota of any of the following criminal offenses, you will have to register as a sex offender in the state:
● Murder that takes place during the course of a sex crime
● First, second, third, or fourth-degree felony criminal sexual conduct offenses
● Solicitation of a minor
● Felony-level indecent exposure
● Falsely imprisoning a minor
● Kidnapping
● Distribution or possession of child pornography
Speak with a New Hope, Minnesota Sex Crimes Attorney Today about Your Legal Defense
Sex crime charges are very serious. If you or a loved one is facing one or more of these charges, it is crucial to secure experienced legal counsel as soon as possible. The legal team at Gerald Miller, P.A. will explain all of your legal options to you and ca work to minimize the consequences associated with a sex crime conviction.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable New Hope sex crimes defense lawyer, please give us a call at 612-440-4610 or contact us online to find out more about how we can assist you with your legal defense.
