Edwardsville Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer

Trusted Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault Attorney in Edwardsville, IL

A charge of predatory criminal sexual assault is among the most serious criminal allegations. When facing these charges, it is essential to work with an Edwardsville predatory criminal sexual assault lawyer as soon as possible. Experienced legal representation can safeguard your rights while the investigation is ongoing, while also helping you put forward a powerful defense against these charges.

Work With an Experienced Edwardsville Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault Attorney

The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, is dedicated to representing those charged with the most serious criminal charges, including predatory criminal sexual assault. Attorney Jessica Koester has decades of legal experience, giving her deep insight into what makes a successful criminal defense. Through personal attention to the unique details of your case and a skill for analyzing evidence, Jessica Koester can help you challenge the prosecution’s case.

What Is Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault?

Under Illinois predatory criminal sexual assault laws, this offense involves sexual conduct with a child under the age of 13. A predatory criminal sexual assault case can also involve aggravating factors that increase the severity of the charges and potential criminal sexual assault penalties. Common aggravating factors include:

• Causing bodily harm
• The involvement of a firearm
• Giving the victim a controlled substance

A child is sexually assaulted every nine minutes in the United States. When that child is under 13, an Illinois offender may be charged with predatory criminal sexual assault.

The Consequences of a Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault Conviction

If you are found guilty, predatory criminal sexual assault penalties are severe. You can be sentenced to prison for between six and 60 years, with the potential for a higher minimum term length depending on whether certain aggravating factors were involved. Other criminal penalties may include fines or sex offender registration.

Being a registered sex offender and having a sex crime on your criminal record can severely impact your reputation and future opportunities. In 2024, 34,056 sex offenders were registered in Illinois. Many registered offenders face challenges finding employment, obtaining housing, pursuing higher education, attaining professional licenses, or navigating the social stigma.

Why You Should Hire a Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer

Predatory criminal sexual assault laws are complex, which can make it difficult to build an effective defense strategy. An Edwardsville predatory criminal sexual assault attorney can help you understand your legal options and build a defense before your trial at the Criminal Justice Center on 509 Ramey Street.

Because no two cases are alike, you should hire a predatory criminal sexual assault lawyer who can carefully analyze the offense and available evidence to determine the right defense strategy. Depending on the circumstances, a defense may involve:

• Identifying inconsistencies between evidence, reports, or witness statements
• Challenging whether the evidence was lawfully obtained
• Questioning the credibility of evidence
• Challenging the reliability of witness testimony

A lawyer can also defend your rights during an investigation. Before providing a statement about the offense or answering questions from law enforcement, ask to contact a lawyer. A lawyer can prevent invasions of your constitutional rights while also preventing accidental self-incrimination.

Contact an Edwardsville Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer

If you were arrested for predatory criminal sexual assault, do not wait to seek out legal guidance. Contact The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, to schedule a free case consultation.