What if There was an Age Gap Between the Parties? — Defending Freedom

What if There Was an Age Gap Between the Parties?

Illinois criminal defense attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss how age differences can affect Illinois sex crime allegations, including criminal sexual abuse, aggravated criminal sexual abuse, sexual assault, and predatory criminal sexual assault of a child.

In Illinois, the ages of both parties can significantly affect how sex crime charges are classified and prosecuted. For example, sexual conduct or penetration involving an alleged victim between 13 and 16 and someone at least five years older can result in aggravated criminal sexual abuse charges. Predatory criminal sexual assault of a child generally involves an accused person who is at least 17 and an alleged victim under 13. Depending on the specific offense and circumstances, penalties may include felony convictions, lengthy prison sentences, and mandatory sex offender registration. Illinois law also distinguishes certain situations involving individuals who are closer in age.

Learn more about Illinois sex crime charges and defense:

If you are under investigation or facing sex crime charges involving an age difference between the parties in Illinois, contact Combs Waterkotte for a free, confidential consultation. Our criminal defense attorneys represent clients throughout Chicago, Cook County, Southern Illinois, and across the state. Call (312) 500-HELP in Chicago or (618) 88-CRIME in Southern Illinois, or fill out our online contact form: Contact us.