Defending Freedom · Oct 30, 2026 · 0:58
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<p>Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.</p><p>In Illinois, using or threatening to use a dangerous weapon during a criminal sexual assault can elevate the offense to aggravated criminal sexual assault, a Class X felony. Under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.30, a qualifying dangerous weapon adds 10 years to the prison sentence. Firearm involvement can add 15 to 25 years or, in certain circumstances, up to life imprisonment. A conviction may also require sex offender registration. The specific charges and penalties depend on the alleged conduct and circumstances of the case.</p><p>Combs Waterkotte is a leading criminal and felony defense law firm serving Chicago, Cook County, and communities throughout Illinois and Missouri. Our sex crime defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom, rights, and future. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves.</p><p>If you are facing sex crime charges in Illinois, call (618) 88-CRIME or (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.</p><p>If you're under investigation or have been arrested for a sex crime, our attorneys act quickly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge evidence, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible.</p><p>Sex crime cases involving weapons can carry particularly severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and sex offender registration requirements. At Combs Waterkotte, we examine the prosecution's evidence, challenge unlawful searches and procedural errors, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your circumstances.</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/sex-crimes-lawyer-southern-illinois/">Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois</a></li><li><a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/federal-internet-sex-crimes-lawyer/chicago-il/">Federal Internet Sex Crimes Lawyer in Chicago, IL</a></li><li><a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyer-southern-illinois/">Criminal Defense Lawyer in Illinois</a></li><li><a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyer-chicago-il/">Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL</a></li><li><a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/aggravated-criminal-sexual-assault-lawyer-southern-illinois/">Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Illinois</a></li><li><a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/criminal-sexual-assault-lawyer-southern-illinois/">Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Illinois</a></li><li><a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/sexual-assault-lawyer-southern-illinois/">Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois</a></li><li><a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/criminal-sexual-abuse-lawyer-southern-illinois/">Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Illinois</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext?DocName=072000050K11-1.30">Illinois Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Law</a></li></ul><p>We help people just like you, every day, no matter the charge. We understand how stressful criminal allegations can be and are ready to protect your rights and future.</p><p>Contact us today for a 100% free case review and consultation: <a href="https://www.combswaterkotte.com/contact/">Contact Combs Waterkotte</a>.</p>