Milwaukee Statutory Rape Defense Attorney
Fiercely Defending Your Freedom
If you have been accused of statutory rape in Wisconsin, our powerful Milwaukee sex crime lawyer at the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella can fight to protect your rights and advocate for a reduction or dismissal of your charges on your behalf.
Our numerous awards and achievements speak for themselves:
- Avvo Clients’ Choice Award
- Positive client feedback
- More than 20 years of experience
- Thousands of criminal cases represented
What is the Age of Consent in Wisconsin?
In the state of Wisconsin, it is illegal for an adult to have sex with a minor under the age of 18, even if the sex is consensual. Known as “statutory rape” based on a minor’s inability to consent as written into the state statute, having sex with a minor can lead to dire consequences if convicted. While some other states have “Romeo and Juliet” laws that allow certain exceptions for romantic partners whose age difference is three years or less, these laws do not exist in Wisconsin. Statutory rape is prosecuted as a form of sexual assault in Wisconsin, with exact charges varying depending on the age of the parties and the type of alleged sexual contact that occurred.
Have you been charged with statutory rape in Wisconsin? Call the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella today at (414) 882-8382 or contact us online to speak with our Milwaukee criminal defense attorney.
What are the Penalties for Statutory Rape in Wisconsin?
Possible charges and penalties may include:
- First degree sexual assault of a child: First degree sexual assault of a child involves sexual contact or intercourse between a minor age 12 years or younger and a defendant of any age. This is a Class B felony and can bring up to 60 years in prison upon conviction.
- Second degree sexual assault of a child: Second degree sexual assault of a child occurs when there is sexual contact between a minor age 13-15 and a defendant of any age. This is considered a Class C felony, carrying up to 40 years in prison and fines up to $100,000.
- Sexual intercourse with a child 16 or older: Exactly as it sounds, this offense involves sexual intercourse between a minor age 16 or 17 and a defendant of any age, unless the defendant is the minor’s spouse. This is a Class A misdemeanor and can carry up to 9 months in jail, fines up to $10,000, or both.
In addition to the above penalties, conviction of statutory rape may also result in mandatory registration as a sex offender. Sex offender registration can permanently ruin a person’s reputation and place immense restrictions on where they may legally live and work, forcing them to live life under public scrutiny long after they have served their sentence.
Defending the Accused Since 1991
With so much at stake, it is crucial you make sure you have a fighter in your corner. At the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella, our Milwaukee criminal defense attorney understands the road that lies ahead and can use his vast legal knowledge and skills to prepare a compelling defense on your behalf. Upon a detailed examination of the facts surrounding your arrest, we can craft a custom-tailored strategy on your behalf that exploits weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and asserts your innocence. Defending your future is of utmost importance, and we are prepared to ensure that no stone is left unturned in pursuit of a favorable result on your behalf.
Contact Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella today to schedule a Consultation!