Illinois Sexual Assault Laws

Criminal Sexual Assault

In Illinois, charges of criminal sexual assault are brought when a person commits an act of sexual penetration against another person and uses either:

  1. the use threat of force,
  2. knows the victim cannot consent due to inability to understand the act or give consent,
  3. is a relative and under 18 years old, or
  4. is between 13 and 17 years old and has a relationship of authority, trust, or power like a teacher, religious figure or other position.

Criminal sexual assault is a Class 1 Felony and carries a sentencing range of 4-15 years in prison.

Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault

Criminal Sexual Assault can rise to level of an aggravated criminal sexual assault if certain conditions are present. Aggravated criminal sexual assault is a Class X felony and requires mandatory imprisonment for between 6-30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Aggravating factors include:

  1. the victim is over 60 years old,
  2. causing bodily harm to the victim,
  3. use or threat with dangerous weapon,
  4. whether the victim is given controlled substance before or during the sexual assault,
  5. victim is under the age of 9, or if between 9 and 13 – there is a threat of force used,
  6. victim is mentally disabled to a severe degree, or
  7. the offense is committed during the commission over another felony.

The consequences of a sex offense conviction can lead to prison and sex offender registration. Sex offender registration can be for ten (10) years or for an individual’s lifetime. This information is public and will be available to anyone who comes into contact with the convicted individual.

If you have been charged with a sex offense such as

  • criminal sexual assault 720 ILCS 5/11-1.20
  • aggravated criminal sexual assault 720 ILCS 5/11-1.30
  • criminal sexual abuse 720 ILCS 5/11-1.50
  • aggravated criminal sexual abuse 720 ILCS 5/11-1.60
  • indecent solicitation of a child 720 ILCS 5/11-6
  • sexual exploitation of a child 720 ILCS 5/11-9.1
  • internet sex crimes
  • rape and aggravated criminal sexual assault
  • attempted rape
  • statutory rape
  • sexual battery
  • indecent liberties with a child
  • possession of child pornography
  • lewd conduct
  • public indecency or voyeurism
  • failure to register as a convicted sex offender
  • or prostitution.

Contact the Law Office of Purav Bhatt at 773-791-9682 to discuss your matter and fight for your rights and freedom. The Law Office of Purav Bhatt has the information and skill to challenge the prosecution.