Many people do not realize that there are various types of sexual assaults that can take place. The term “sexual assault” is broad and can mean different things. The type of charge a person faces depends on the circumstances of the crime that was allegedly committed. In Minnesota, sexual assault is usually a felony or a gross misdemeanor charge. Contact our sexual assault lawyers in Mankato, Minnesota today if you are facing sexual assault charges.
The penalties for these charges depends on the level of the crime committed. In Minnesota, sexual assault is termed “criminal sexual conduct.”
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There are five degrees of criminal sexual conduct in Minnesota. Four of them are felony charges, and one is a misdemeanor.
First-degree sexual assault is defined as sexual penetration accompanied by at least one of the following conditions:
A conviction of first-degree sexual assault can result n up to 30 years in prison and a $40,000 fine. The defendant will be required to register as a sex offender, which will have lifelong consequences concerning housing, employment, and education.
Second-degree sexual assault involves engaging in contact with the victim under similar circumstances to those listed above, but without sexual penetration. This may include touching the victim’s intimate areas, coercively touching another’s intimate parts, or touching over clothing.
This is a felony offense punishable by up to 25 years in prison and a fine of $35,000. The minimum sentence is 7.5 years in prison.
Third-degree sexual assault involves sexual penetration under the following circumstances:
This is a felony offense punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of $30,000. If the victim is 13-15 and the defendant was not more than four years older but more than two years older, the maximum punishment is 5 years in prison.
Fourth-degree sexual assault includes the same circumstances as third-degree sexual assault but without sexual penetration. It is classified as a felony offense, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000.
Fifth-degree sexual assault includes engaging in nonconsensual sexual contact or knowingly masturbating or exposing one’s genitals in the presence of a child under 16 years of age. The punishment misdemeanor offense is up to one year of imprisonment and a fine of up to $3,000. If the defendant has a prior conviction, this could become a felony offense punishable by up to 7 years in prison and a fine of up to $14,000.
If you are facing sexual assault charges do not hesitate to contact Knutson + Casey today. Our Mankato sexual assault lawyers are ready to help answer any of your questions and are prepared to work as hard as possible to get charges reduced, and in some cases, dismissed. Contact Knutson + Casey here or give us a call at 507-344-8888 today to see how we can help you.
Each degree carries different legal implications and penalties based on the severity and nature of the assault.
In Minnesota, the penalties for sexual assault vary by degree:
The penalties for each degree of sexual assault are determined by the severity of the offense and other related circumstances.
Knutson and Casey Expert Legal Team
December 12, 2024
At Knutson+Casey, we take the time to understand each distinctive matter presented to us by a client in need of assistance. We make certain that our clients understand their options and can make informed decisions regarding the progress of their cases. We have 4 bar certified attorneys as well as 5 expert paralegals on staff to review all legal information and cases presented.