Juvenile Charges for Criminal Sexual Conduct in Minnesota: Process and Outcomes

Facing a juvenile charge under the Minnesota Statutes § 609.342–609.3451 (the “CSC” laws) is frightening and confusing—for the young person, the family, and everyone involved. 

At Martine Law, we understand the stress, the fear of long-term consequences, and the urgency of getting help early. 

Juveniles charged with sexual offenses in Minnesota need experienced defense who can explain how the process works, protect their rights, and guide them toward the best possible outcome.

What is this about?

When a minor in Minnesota is accused of engaging in conduct that would qualify as one of the degrees of criminal sexual conduct if committed by an adult, the juvenile may be charged under the CSC statutes. These are serious offenses that can include sexual contact or penetration, age-difference scenarios, authority relationships, or force/coercion. (MN Revisor)
Even though the youth is under 18, the consequences can extend into adulthood—including the possibility of adult court, placement in a juvenile corrections facility, and in some cases sex-offender registration. 

This blog explains how the juvenile process works in Minnesota, what outcomes are possible, and what you should do if your child is charged.

How the juvenile legal process works in Minnesota

Jurisdiction and the juvenile court process

Juvenile delinquency cases fall under the juvenile court system in Minnesota as defined in Minnesota Statutes § 260B.007 and related statutes. 

 When a minor (under 18) is accused of an act that would be a crime if committed by an adult, the juvenile court may acquire jurisdiction. For very serious offenses, especially those involving sexual conduct, the court may certify the case to adult court.

Charges under CSC statutes

The same CSC statutes that apply to adults also apply to juveniles. For instance, § 609.342 defines first-degree CSC (which can involve a victim under the age of 18 and a significant age difference or authority relationship) and carries the most serious penalties.
A juvenile might be charged with a particular degree of CSC depending on the facts: victim age, age difference, use of force, relationship of authority, or number of acts. 

Certification to adult court

Minnesota law allows for juveniles, especially older ones (14-17), to be tried in adult court for serious offenses including CSC. If the case is certified, the youth faces adult charges, adult sentencing guidelines, and adult consequences.

The decision depends on factors such as the nature of the offense, prior record, maturity of the juvenile, and public safety concerns.

What should you do if your child is charged with juvenile CSC?

1. Get experienced legal representation immediately. Because these cases move fast and involve serious consequences, do not wait. The earlier the involvement of a defense attorney, the stronger the possible options. 
2. Do not let your child speak freely to police or school investigators without counsel. Even a well-intentioned statement can be used against them. 
3. Preserve evidence and memory of events. This includes messages, social media, digital communications, and physical evidence. The defense can review whether the charging decision is justified. 
4. Understand the seriousness of age-difference and authority-relationship rules. Even consensual-appearing situations may trigger CSC statutes if a minor and an adult are involved with significant age difference or the adult had authority. (Martine Law) 
5. Explore diversion, treatment, or juvenile court resolution. In some cases, the juvenile court may allow options aimed at rehabilitation, which may avoid adult court certification. A defense attorney can negotiate appropriately. 

Possible outcomes and penalties

Juvenile court resolution

• Adjudication of delinquency rather than adult conviction. 
• Possible placement in a juvenile facility, supervision, or treatment program. 
• The record may be sealed or handled with greater privacy for younger juveniles (under 16 especially). 
• However, certain juvenile CSC cases may trigger the need for registration as a predatory offender. 

Extended Juvenile Jurisdiction (EJJ)

For serious cases, Minnesota uses EJJ: the juvenile remains under supervision until age 21, though the case was handled in juvenile court. While this may avoid adult court, it still carries robust oversight and long-term consequences. 

Adult certification and adult court outcomes

If certified to adult court:

• The youth would be tried as an adult, convicted of a felony CSC degree, with adult sentencing guidelines (including possible prison). 

• The conviction would become part of adult criminal record and may carry mandatory registration under the predatory offender laws. 

Sex Offender / Predatory Offender Registration

One of the most significant consequences: under Minnesota Statutes § 243.166, individuals convicted (or adjudicated in some juvenile cases) of certain sexual offenses must register as a predatory offender. This applies even in juvenile cases in some circumstances. 

 Registration may lead to long-term consequences: limitations on housing, employment, travel, and social stigma.

What makes juvenile CSC cases different from adult cases

• Focus on rehabilitation. Juvenile court system emphasizes treatment and reintegration rather than just punishment. 
• Privacy protections. Generally, juvenile records are sealed or non-public for younger youths, though exceptions exist for serious felonies and older juveniles. 
• Age and developmental issues matter. Courts consider the youth’s maturity, family environment, and potential for change. 
• Certification risk. Older juveniles face a higher likelihood of adult court certification for CSC charges compared to many other crimes. 
• Potential for long-term consequences despite juvenile adjudication. Even if the matter remains in juvenile court, registration may still be required and the stigma can last into adulthood. 

How a Minnesota Juvenile Sex-Crime Defense Attorney Can Help

At Martine Law, our Minnesota-based team has experience with juvenile criminal sexual conduct cases. We work to:

• Evaluate whether the case can remain in juvenile court and avoid adult certification. 
• Challenge the legal basis of the charges: Was there consent? Was the age difference lawful? Was authority or coercion involved? 
• Negotiate diversion, treatment, or other favorable outcomes when possible. 
• Protect your child’s rights—ensuring they do not unwittingly harm their case through well-meaning statements or unprepared interviews. 
• Advise families on the ramifications of registration and work to minimize long-term impact. 

If your child is under investigation or charged with a sexual offense under Minnesota’s CSC statutes, you do not need to face this alone. Contact Martine Law for a confidential consultation with a defense lawyer who understands these sensitive and high-stakes issues.