Sex Crime Defense Lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI
Allegations of criminal sexual conduct (CSC) can change your life in an instant, and the consequences can last a lifetime. If you’ve been accused or are under investigation, speak with a qualified Grand Rapids sex crime defense lawyer to understand your rights and build a strong, strategic defense.
Contact Barrix Law Firm today for a confidential case evaluation.
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Experienced Defense Against Sex Crime Allegations
Sex crime allegations are unlike any other criminal charge. Accusations can be devastating and stressful, and a conviction can impact the rest of your life. Sex offenders face an incredible social stigma, including restrictions on where they live and work, regular reporting requirements, and unexpected visits from law enforcement to ensure compliance.
At Barrix Law Firm, we understand the stress that you’re feeling, and we have shielded clients in Grand Rapids and West Michigan from accusations and false allegations of sex crimes for over 32 years. Our first step is to protect your constitutional rights before focusing on building a powerful defense. Get in touch with a Grand Rapids sex crime defense lawyer at Barrix Law Firm today to see how we can help.
What’s On This Page
What Is Criminal Sexual Conduct in Michigan?
In Michigan, many sexual crimes, including rape and child sex abuse, are classified under one category known as criminal sexual conduct (CSC). There are 4 degrees of CSC based on the age of the victim, the type of sexual contact, and any aggravating circumstances. Laws related to sexual offenses are detailed in section 750.520 of the Michigan Penal Code.
Criminal Sexual Conduct in the 4th degree
This misdemeanor offense involves sexual contact without penetration, especially when the actor uses physical force, coercion, or is in a position of power. MCL 750.520e is punishable by up to 2 years in prison and is considered a High Court misdemeanor. However, it is treated like a felony and requires registration on the state’s sex offender registry.
Criminal Sexual Conduct in the 3rd Degree
MCL 750.520d applies to instances of sexual penetration using force or coercion (rape). It also applies if the accuser is between the age of 13 and 16 or if the person lacked the capacity to consent at any age. Actors in this offense may face up to 15 years in prison.
Criminal Sexual Conduct in the 2nd Degree
MCL 750.520c applies to sexual contact involving a person under age 13 or a person between 13-16 if certain aggravating factors apply. It’s typically used when sexual acts are carried out by a relative, member of the same household, or an employee of a school or childcare-related entity. This charge may also apply if the other person was injured or coerced. CSC-II carries a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison.
Criminal Sexual Conduct in the 1st Degree
As detailed in MCL 750.520b, CSC-I involves instances of felony sexual penetration with aggravating circumstances. It applies to cases involving a person under the age of 13, but it also covers violent or armed sexual attacks or acts that occur during the commission of another felony. Possible punishments include life in prison or a sentence of any length.
*For CSC-I and CSC-II, if the crime involves a minor under the age of 13, lifetime electronic monitoring is required.
The charges above are listed offenses that require registration under the Sex Offenders Registration Act (SORA) MCL 28.723(1). There are some exceptions to the state’s consent laws. One common exception is the “Romeo and Juliet” rule which applies to teens and young adults who are no more than 4 years apart in age. However, statutory rape charges can still be pursued in some situations. Per MCL 28.723a, a hearing must be scheduled to determine if the person can be exempted from sex offender registration.
Other Sex Crimes We Handle
With over 32 years of legal experience serving clients in Grand Rapids and West Michigan, we have represented clients facing a variety of serious criminal charges. Attorney Jason Barrix handles a variety of sex offenses detailed in the state’s penal code:
- Indecent exposure and aggravated indecent exposure
- Internet sex crimes, including cyberstalking and sexting
- Possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM)
- Lewd conduct or gross indecency
- Solicitation and/or prostitution
- Rape and/or attempted rape
- Soliciting a child for immoral purposes
- Sexual battery or non-consensual contact
What to Do if You’re Accused of a Sex Crime
The steps that you take early in the process can be vital for protecting your rights. Always seek counsel from a qualified criminal defense attorney. The following information is provided for informational purposes. Only a lawyer can provide legal advice.
- Do not talk to law enforcement without a lawyer.
- Understand the specific charges that you’re facing and what penalties they carry.
- Work with your attorney to preserve evidence and challenge any items that were improperly collected.
- Do not contact the alleged victim or any witnesses directly or indirectly.
- Limit conversations about the allegations, and avoid posting on social media.
- Communicate with your attorney regarding pre-trial motions and plea deals.
- Plan for potential consequences, such as housing and employment, if you’re convicted.
- Explore options for appeals and post-trial relief.
How Barrix Law Firm Can Help With Your CSC Case
If you have been charged with a sex crime or if you’re currently being investigated, contact an experienced sex crime lawyer at Barrix Law Firm to understand your rights and start building your defense.
Discreet Counsel
When facing serious allegations, the last thing you need is more judgment and shame. We provide direct legal advice in a safe, confidential space where your privacy is respected.
Proven Trial Experience
We are not afraid to take a case to trial. Jason Barrix is an experienced trial attorney. Prosecutors know that we are prepared to fight aggressively in the courtroom.
Local Knowledge
We have practiced law in Grand Rapids and West Michigan since 1993, including the 61st District and 17th Circuit courts. Our knowledge of local prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement can give us extra insight into your case.
Decisive Action
In sex crime cases, time is of the essence. We move quickly to preserve critical evidence, interview witnesses, and challenge the prosecution's narrative.
Possible Defenses in Michigan Sex Crime Cases
When facing allegations of felony sexual conduct, it can be difficult to remember that the accused is presumed innocent until proven otherwise. Prosecutors must build a strong case to prove that a sex crime occurred beyond a reasonable doubt. This requires considerable evidence and consistent testimony that can be difficult to obtain. At Barrix Law Firm, we assess the facts of the case and build a defense around them. We can conduct a full investigation and contact expert witnesses to prove your innocence. Common sex crime defenses include:
- False Accusations: One of the strongest defenses involves showing that the alleged victim made false accusations in retaliation or for other reasons.
- Consent: Assuming that both parties were of age and had the mental capacity to consent, it’s possible to argue that the alleged sexual activity was fully consensual.
- Insufficient Evidence: Sex crime defense attorneys often challenge the quality of the evidence, including phone records, computer forensics, and DNA samples.
- Mistaken Identity: Alibis, witness statements, and technical evidence can be used to show that you were not at the scene of the crime when the incident occurred.
- Legal Misconduct: In some cases, you may be able to prove that law enforcement acted illegally by conducting improper searches or violating your rights.
- Plea Deals: Depending on the facts of the case, your attorney may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor or judge to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
- Appeals: If it’s not possible to negotiate a favorable plea deal, your sex offender attorney may be able to appeal the conviction in court.
How We’ve Helped Defend Against False Accusations
Sexual assault claims are very serious. An individual can be wrongfully accused or simply overcharged under Michigan’s complex sexual conduct laws. It’s not uncommon for an individual to be falsely accused for a variety of unrelated reasons.
Our Client Was Falsely Accused
Our real case histories have shown the human factors that can result in false claims of a sex crime. One client was falsely accused of having sexual intercourse with a minor. He contacted Barrix Law Firm prior to speaking with police. We were able to keep him from being charged when we showed that what had really transpired was a false claim where the other person was coached by a parent to try and stop the father from exercising his parenting time.
What We Did
There’s little doubt that had he spoken to the detective without the benefit of counsel, he would have been charged with a lifelong offense. Our investigation showed that there was no physical evidence or corroborating evidence of a sex crime. We were able to produce other false claims by the parent against the client to stop parenting time. We employed private investigators, polygraph operators/lie detector tests, forensic experts, and doctors to help defend the wrongfully accused.
See How We Can Help
It’s vital to hire an attorney who is well-versed in sex crimes laws immediately after being contacted by the police. The biggest mistake an accused can make is thinking that they can explain their side of the story and the case will simply go away. If you’re facing allegations of sexual assault, contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
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Grand Rapids Sex Crime FAQs
Should I Let the Police Search My Phone or Computer?
No. If the police want to search your electronic devices, you should generally not consent until they have secured a search warrant. Contact a sex crime lawyer as soon as possible to understand your rights.
What’s the Age of Consent in Michigan?
The age of consent in Michigan is 16 years old. There are some exceptions for teens who are close in age under the “Romeo and Juliet” rule. However, federal rules may apply to out-of-state relationships and contact initiated using the internet.
If I'm Convicted, Will I Have to Register as a Sex Offender?
Most likely, yes. Even fourth-degree misdemeanor CSC has a 15-year sex offender registration period, and penalties for more serious offenses are increasingly severe. Contact a sex offender lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case.
What Are Michigan’s Sex Offender Tiers?
CSC charges are classified into 3 tiers based on the severity of the charges. The tier the offender is placed in determines how long they must remain on the sex offender registry.
- Tier I applies to CSC-IV and misdemeanor sexual offenses. It requires a 15-year registration period.
- Tier II applies to moderate felony offenses or a repeat Tier I conviction and carries a 25-year registration period.
- Tier III applies to the most severe felony CSC offenses and requires lifelong sex offender registration.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team to understand what penalties are associated with the charges you are facing.
Can I Get My Name Taken Off the Sex Offender Registry?
It is very difficult to get your name removed from the sex offender registry, which is why it’s important to work with an experienced sex crime attorney to minimize potential consequences. Possible reasons for removal include convictions as a juvenile, consensual sexual contact with someone close in age, or changes in state law that relate to your conviction.
Contact Barrix Law Firm Today
If you’ve been accused of a sex crime in Kent County or West Michigan, time is of the essence. Speaking to the police without representation can damage your defense and worsen your situation even before the prosecutor gets to work.
At Barrix Law Firm, we act quickly to protect your rights while safeguarding your future and your freedom. Your initial consultation is free and 100% confidential. No one has to know that you reached out. Call us today or fill out our secure intake form to get help from an experienced Grand Rapids sex crime defense lawyer. Don’t wait. Your future depends on it.
