Aggressive Sex Crime Defense Lawyer For State And Federal Charges In Illinois
If you are under investigation or have been charged with a sex crime in Illinois, there is no time to waste. You need an experienced sex crime defense attorney on your side as soon as possible. Being accused of a sex crime can severely damage your reputation, even if the allegations are false. Being convicted of a sex crime can result in lengthy prison time and a lifetime requirement to register as a sex offender.
At Wolf Criminal Law, our team has extensive experience in these cases. We encourage you to contact us immediately – and put a dedicated criminal defense lawyer on your side today.
Our office is located in downtown Chicago, and we represent clients throughout Illinois. For a free and confidential consultation, call or text us at 312-444-0907 or complete our contact form.
Strategic Defense Against Allegations Of Sexual Assault And Sex Abuse
Attorney Bill Wolf has more than 25 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney. In his practice, he regularly defends clients accused of:
- Prostitution-related crimes, including solicitation, pimping or promoting prostitution
- Rape, criminal sexual assault, statutory rape or predatory sexual assault of a minor child
- The possession, creation or distribution of child pornography or pornographic material
- Internet crimes that involve sexual offenses
Under the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act, a person convicted of a sex crime in Illinois often must register as a sex offender. This means that the conviction may show up in searches related to job applications and housing. If you have been accused of a sex crime that requires sex offender registration, an acquittal or a not guilty verdict can keep your name off the sex offender registration list.
Attorney Bill Wolf Is A Leader In Defense Against State And Federal Sex Crime Charges
You have the right to remain silent during any criminal investigation. You also have the right to have your attorney present during any questioning. The sooner we can get involved in your case, the sooner we can start protecting your rights and freedom. Depending on the investigatory agency, some sex crimes are pursued under federal jurisdiction. Being convicted of a federal sex crime can result in harsh penalties and lengthy prison sentences. Attorney Bill Wolf regularly defends clients in state and federal courts. He has also successfully navigated post-conviction appeals. Working with the Innocence Project and using DNA evidence, attorney Wolf helped exonerate a man who had served 25 years in prison for a false rape conviction.
See our case results and testimonials to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Crime Defense
Sudden sex crime accusations can feel overwhelming and frightening. These charges often bring confusion about legal rights, possible outcomes and their impact on personal and professional life.
The sensitive nature of sex crime allegations can affect relationships, employment and reputation, even before any court proceedings begin. The following questions address common concerns about sex crime defense in Illinois.
What If You Are Falsely Accused Of A Sex Crime?
False accusations of sex crimes may arise from misunderstandings about consent, relationship conflicts or mistaken identity. A strong defense may involve:
- Gathering evidence about consent
- Documenting communications between parties
- Collecting witness statements
- Analyzing digital evidence and records
Understanding consent is crucial to any sex crime defense. Illinois law requires clear consent, which means conscious and voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity. The presence of force, threats or inability to consent due to intoxication or age can negate claims of consent.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Sex Crimes In Illinois?
Illinois law sets specific time limits for prosecuting sex crimes. Key time frames include:
- No time limit: Criminal sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual assault and criminal sexual abuse when the victim is under 18
- Within 20 years: Most sexual offenses when the victim is over 18, starting from the date of the offense
- Extended periods: Cases may remain open if DNA evidence is collected and preserved within 10 years of the offense
- Special provisions: The time limit may pause if the offender is not a resident of Illinois or actively conceals their identity
Understanding these time frames helps determine potential defense strategies and legal options in your case.
What Are The Penalties For Sex Crimes In Illinois?
Sex crime penalties in Illinois typically depend on the specific offense and circumstances. Common penalties may include:
- Prison sentences: Terms can range from one year to life imprisonment
- Fines: Financial penalties may reach thousands of dollars
- Probation: Extended supervision after release
- Mandatory counseling: Participation in treatment programs
- Registration requirements: Placement on the sex offender registry
The severity of these penalties emphasizes the importance of building a strong defense strategy from the start.
What Are The Consequences Of Being A Registered Sex Offender?
Registration as a sex offender in Illinois can impact many aspects of life. Common consequences may include:
- Housing restrictions: Limitations on where you can live
- Employment challenges: Background checks may limit job opportunities
- Travel restrictions: Requirements to notify authorities when moving
- Public notification: Personal information becomes publicly accessible
- Reporting requirements: Regular check-ins with law enforcement
- Internet limitations: Restrictions on social media and online activity
These long-term consequences highlight why mounting an aggressive defense strategy is crucial from the moment allegations arise.
Don’t Wait. Contact A Sex Crime Defense Lawyer Today.
For a free and confidential consultation, call or text us at 312-444-0907 or complete our contact form. We are a Chicago criminal defense law firm representing clients throughout Illinois. Our staff speaks Spanish and Italian.