Understanding criminal sexual conduct charges in Minnesota
In Minnesota, criminal sexual conduct (CSC) is one of the most serious charges you can face. The law categorizes these offenses into degrees, with penalties that range from several years in prison to life sentences.
If you are under investigation or have been charged, the consequences can extend far beyond prison, affecting your employment, housing, and personal relationships. At Martine Law, we defend individuals against these life-changing accusations and fight to protect their rights.
How Minnesota defines criminal sexual conduct
Minnesota Statutes §§ 609.342–609.3453 outline five degrees of CSC based on factors such as:
- Age of the victim
- Use of force or threats
- Use of a weapon
- Relationship between the parties
- Whether the victim was physically or mentally incapacitated
The higher the degree, the more severe the potential penalties.
Penalties by degree of criminal sexual conduct
First-Degree CSC
- Sentence: Up to 30 years in prison
- Fine: Up to $40,000
- Applies when there is sexual penetration with a minor under 13, use of a weapon, or great bodily harm.
Second-Degree CSC
- Sentence: Up to 25 years in prison
- Fine: Up to $35,000
- Involves sexual contact (not penetration) under similar aggravating circumstances as first degree.
Third-Degree CSC
- Sentence: Up to 15 years in prison
- Fine: Up to $30,000
- Includes sexual penetration with a minor aged 13–15, or when the victim is intoxicated or incapacitated.
Fourth-Degree CSC
- Sentence: Up to 10 years in prison
- Fine: Up to $20,000
- Involves sexual contact with a minor aged 13–15 or when the victim is intoxicated or incapacitated.
Fifth-Degree CSC
- Sentence: Up to 1 year in jail (gross misdemeanor) or up to 7 years in prison if felony-level
- Fine: Up to $14,000
- Includes non-consensual sexual contact or lewd exposure.
Additional consequences beyond prison
A CSC conviction in Minnesota often comes with collateral consequences, such as:
- Mandatory sex offender registration for 10 years, 25 years, or life depending on the offense
- Restrictions on where you can live or work
- Difficulty obtaining housing or employment
- Loss of firearm rights
- Social stigma and reputational harm
Our Minneapolis sex crimes lawyers help clients understand and mitigate these consequences.
Aggravating factors that increase penalties
Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties, including:
- Use of a firearm or dangerous weapon
- Infliction of bodily harm
- Multiple victims
- Prior CSC or other violent felony convictions
- Victim under a certain age threshold
These can lead to longer mandatory prison terms and limited opportunities for parole.
Defending against criminal sexual conduct charges
Possible defense strategies include:
- Challenging the credibility of the evidence or witness statements
- Demonstrating consent where legally applicable
- Questioning forensic evidence collection or handling
- Highlighting violations of constitutional rights during the investigation
Working with an experienced Minnesota criminal defense attorney is essential to building a strong defense.
Key takeaways
- Criminal sexual conduct in Minnesota ranges from fifth-degree misdemeanors to first-degree felonies with decades-long prison sentences.
- Penalties also include mandatory sex offender registration and long-term personal consequences.
- Aggravating factors like weapons, injury, or prior convictions can increase sentences.
- Early legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Facing CSC charges in Minnesota?
We provide aggressive, confidential defense to protect your rights and your future.
Contact Martine Law today for a private consultation.