If you are being investigated or have been charged with sexual assault in Plainfield, IL, the decisions you make now can have a lasting impact on your future.
You need a knowledgeable Plainfield, IL sexual assault defense attorney who can step in immediately, protect your rights, and start building a defense before the case moves forward.
Combs Waterkotte defends clients in Plainfield and across Illinois against sexual assault and related sex crime allegations. The earlier you involve a lawyer in the Plainfield, IL area, the more options you may have. Contact us online or call (314) 900-HELP now to get started.
Cases Handled
Over 10,000
Jail Days Saved
Over 1 Million
Google Reviews
500+ Perfect
Legal Experience
Over 80 Years
What This Page Covers:
- Why acting early and working with a Plainfield, IL sexual assault attorney can impact your case
- What qualifies as criminal sexual assault under Illinois law, and how consent and force are evaluated
- How different charges compare, including aggravated offenses and cases involving minors in Plainfield, IL
- The potential consequences of a conviction in Illinois, including incarceration and mandatory sex offender registration
- Steps to take if you are being investigated or formally charged in Plainfield, IL
- Common defense strategies used to challenge sexual assault allegations
- When charges in Plainfield, IL may be reduced, dismissed, or resolved through negotiation
Legal Videos
How Can I Prove My Innocence if Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?
How Can I Prove My Innocence if Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? Attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte …
Can I Be Arrested for Sexual Assault Without Evidence in Illinois?
Can I Be Arrested for Sexual Assault Without Evidence in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? In this video, Combs Waterkotte attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew …
What Are Effective Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases in Illinois?
What Are Effective Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases in Illinois? Facing sex crime charges in the state of Illinois? Attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte discuss …
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois?
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Attorney Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discusses the possible penalties for a sexual …
What Should I Do if I’m Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?
What Should I Do if I'm Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? Attorney Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discusses everything you need …
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …
How Can I Prove My Innocence if Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?
How Can I Prove My Innocence if Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? Attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte …
Can I Be Arrested for Sexual Assault Without Evidence in Illinois?
Can I Be Arrested for Sexual Assault Without Evidence in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? In this video, Combs Waterkotte attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew …
What Are Effective Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases in Illinois?
What Are Effective Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases in Illinois? Facing sex crime charges in the state of Illinois? Attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte discuss …
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois?
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Attorney Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discusses the possible penalties for a sexual …
What Should I Do if I’m Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?
What Should I Do if I'm Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? Attorney Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discusses everything you need …
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …
Why You Need a Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Plainfield, IL Immediately
What you do right after an accusation in Plainfield, IL can have a lasting impact on your case.
Law enforcement may already be collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and attempting to obtain statements that could later be used against you. Once formal charges are filed in Plainfield, IL, your legal options may become more limited.
Getting a Plainfield, IL sexual assault defense lawyer involved right away can help you:
- Prevent making statements that could be misinterpreted or used against you
- Preserve key evidence such as communications and digital records
- Spot weaknesses or inconsistencies in the accusations
- Address investigative errors or rights violations
- In some cases, intervene before charges are formally filed
Delaying legal representation can limit your ability to respond effectively. Early involvement from a defense lawyer in Plainfield, IL gives you the strongest position moving forward.
Will County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Will County and Illinois.
- Illinois Criminal Defense Resources
- Illinois Criminal Defense Practice Areas
- Illinois Compiled Statutes
- Illinois Courts
- Illinois Supreme Court Rules
- Illinois Secretary of State
- Illinois State Police
- Illinois Department of Corrections
- Will County Website
- Will County Court
- Will County Jail
- Will County Sheriff’s Office
- Christopher Combs
- Steven Waterkotte
What is Considered Sexual Assault Under Illinois Law?
Under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.20, criminal sexual assault in Plainfield, IL typically involves sexual penetration that occurs without consent. This may include situations involving force, threats, or circumstances where an individual is unable to legally consent.
The law defines “sexual penetration” broadly. It’s not limited to intercourse and can include other forms of physical intrusion involving a body part or object.
A charge of criminal sexual assault may arise in Plainfield, IL when:
- Force or threats of force are involved
- The accused knows the other individual is unable to consent due to intoxication, drug use, or mental incapacity
- The alleged victim is a family member under the age of 18
- You are 17 or older, in a position of authority, and the alleged victim is between 14 and 17
Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault
In Plainfield, IL, aggravated criminal sexual assault, defined under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.30, refers to cases where additional factors make the charge more serious and increase the potential consequences.
These aggravating factors in Plainfield, IL may include:
- The use or display of a weapon, or causing bodily harm
- Threats to the life or safety of the alleged victim or others
- Committing the act while carrying out another crime, such as burglary
- The alleged victim being elderly (60 or older) or having a disability
- Giving drugs or substances without consent
- The accused being under 17 and the alleged victim under 9
- The accused being under 17, the alleged victim between 9 and 12, and force or threats are involved
Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child
Under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.40, predatory criminal sexual assault of a child applies when an adult is accused of engaging in a sexual act involving a young child.
A person may face this charge in Plainfield, IL if:
- The alleged victim is under the age of 13
- The accused is 17 years of age or older
- The allegations involve sexual penetration or sexual contact
Under Illinois law, a child under 13 cannot consent. As a result, prosecutors do not need to prove force or threats to bring this type of charge in Plainfield, IL.
Why Hire Combs Waterkotte for Sexual Assault Defense in Plainfield, IL
When you’re facing high-stakes criminal charges, the experience and approach of your Plainfield, IL criminal defense attorney can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. At Combs Waterkotte, we have handled thousands of cases throughout Plainfield and across Illinois, bringing the knowledge and strategy needed to protect your rights.
What sets our team apart in Plainfield, IL and beyond:
- Extensive Experience and Legal Insight
With over 80 years of combined criminal defense experience and more than 10,000 cases handled, we have a deep understanding of complex charges and courtroom dynamics. Our experience in Plainfield, IL allows us to approach serious allegations with a strategic, well-informed plan.
- Clear Communication and Client Support in Plainfield, IL
We prioritize communication and accessibility. You’ll receive regular updates, clear answers, and guidance throughout your Plainfield, IL case. Because we don’t bill by the hour, you can reach out whenever you need support or clarity.
- Strong Strategy Backed by Resources
Our team works with investigators, experts, and support staff to build a detailed, evidence-based defense tailored to your situation. No matter where your case is in the Plainfield, IL area, we bring the resources needed to support you.
- Prepared for Trial from Day One
We approach every Plainfield, IL case with the expectation that it could go to trial. This level of preparation strengthens our negotiating position and ensures you are fully protected if your case proceeds to court.
Our Plainfield, IL clients value our responsiveness, preparation, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome in high-stakes cases.
Penalties for a Sexual Assault Conviction in Plainfield, IL
Under Illinois law, a first-time criminal sexual assault offense in Plainfield, IL is typically charged as a Class 1 felony. A conviction may result in 4 to 15 years of imprisonment, along with mandatory sex offender registration.
That said, Plainfield, IL sexual assault penalties can become significantly more severe depending on the circumstances of the case:
- A prior conviction for a sex offense or child exploitation can elevate the charge to a Class X felony, which comes with a mandatory prison sentence of 30 to 60 years.
- If there are prior convictions for aggravated criminal sexual assault or predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, the potential penalty may include life imprisonment without parole.
Long-Term Consequences of Plainfield, IL Sexual Assault Conviction
The penalties for a sexual assault conviction in Plainfield, IL extend far beyond prison time and fines. Even after a case is resolved, the long-term consequences can follow you for years, decades, or even the rest of your life.
These are known as collateral consequences, and they can affect nearly every aspect of your personal and professional future in Plainfield, IL.
They could include:
Employment & Career Barriers in Plainfield, IL
A sexual assault conviction can make it extremely difficult to find or keep a job. Most employers in and around Plainfield, IL conduct background checks, and a felony conviction, especially for a sex offense, can disqualify you from many positions.
You may also face:
- Termination from your current job
- Fewer career options in the future in and around Plainfield, IL
- Being blocked from positions that require trust or licensing
Sex Offender Registration in Illinois
In many cases, a conviction in Plainfield, IL requires mandatory registration as a sex offender. Registration can last for years, or even a lifetime, depending on the offense.
This requirement may include:
- Regular reporting to law enforcement
- Your information being publicly available online
- Restrictions on where you can live and work
- Limitations on contact with certain individuals, including minors
Housing Limitations in Plainfield, IL
Finding stable housing can become significantly more difficult after a conviction. Many landlords conduct background checks and may deny applications based on criminal history.
In addition, sex offender registry restrictions in Plainfield, IL may limit where you are legally allowed to live.
Professional License Consequences in Plainfield, IL
If you hold a professional license in Plainfield, IL, such as in healthcare, education, law, or skilled trades, a conviction can lead to suspension or permanent revocation.
Getting licensed in the future may also become significantly more difficult.
Child Custody & Visitation Issues in Plainfield, IL
A Plainfield, IL sexual assault conviction can directly impact your custody or visitation rights. Courts in the Plainfield area and across Illinois consider the best interests of the child, and even an allegation can weigh heavily against a parent.
Loss of Rights
A conviction can result in the loss of certain rights in Plainfield, IL, including:
- Firearm ownership restrictions
- Difficulty traveling internationally, as some countries restrict entry
- Voting in certain situations
What to Do After a Sexual Assault Allegation in Plainfield, IL
If you’ve been accused or arrested in Plainfield, IL, what you do next can directly impact your case. Early mistakes can make your situation worse, fast, while the right steps can help protect your future.
Here’s what you need to do in Plainfield, IL:
- Avoid speaking with law enforcement without an attorney present. Even statements made in good faith can be misunderstood or used against you.
- Retain an experienced Plainfield, IL sexual assault defense lawyer as soon as possible. Early representation allows your Plainfield, IL attorney to manage communications, address bail issues, and begin building a strategic defense.
- Stay away from the alleged victim. Any contact can be taken the wrong way and could lead to additional charges.
- Preserve all potential evidence. Save messages, emails, social media communications, call logs, photos, and location data. Do not delete anything, as even small details may become important in your defense. Identify any witnesses who may support your version of events in Plainfield, IL.
- Refrain from discussing the situation with others. Conversations with friends, family, or online posts may be used as evidence by the prosecution.
Time is critical. The sooner you involve a Combs Waterkotte sexual assault defense lawyer in Plainfield, IL, the sooner your rights can be protected and your defense strategy can take shape.
How Sexual Assault Charges Are Defended in Plainfield, IL
Building a strong defense against sexual assault allegations in Plainfield, IL requires a careful, strategic evaluation of the prosecution’s case. This process often involves analyzing the evidence, assessing witness reliability, and identifying any legal or procedural issues that may weaken the case.
Some of the most common defense strategies include:
Consent
If consent is a key issue, your lawyer may present evidence showing the interaction was voluntary. This can include texts, messages, or testimony that helps clarify what actually happened.
False or Motivated Allegations
Allegations can sometimes stem from misunderstandings, personal disputes, or outside pressures. An experienced Plainfield, IL sex crimes defense lawyer may investigate the circumstances behind the claim to identify inconsistencies or motives that call the accusation into question.
Misidentification
In certain situations, an individual may be wrongly identified as the suspect. Your Plainfield, IL sexual assault defense team can challenge unreliable identifications, flawed investigative procedures, or assumptions that contributed to the accusation.
Excluding Illegally Obtained Evidence
If your rights were violated during the investigation, such as through illegal searches or coercive interrogation, your Plainfield, IL defense attorney may file motions to have that evidence excluded.
Breaking Down Forensic and Digital Evidence
Forensic and digital evidence, including DNA and electronic data, must be properly collected and analyzed. Your Plainfield, IL attorney may scrutinize how this evidence was handled and identify any inconsistencies or errors.
Proving You Were Somewhere Else
Information such as GPS records, surveillance video, or cell phone data may establish that you were not present at the Plainfield, IL location at the time of the alleged incident.
Key takeaway: you don’t have to prove your innocence. The prosecution has to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. A strong defense in Plainfield, IL is about exposing the gaps in their case.
Can Sexual Assault Charges in Plainfield, IL Be Reduced, Dismissed, or Settled Before Trial?
Not all sexual assault cases in Plainfield, IL proceed to trial. In many situations, the most effective outcome is achieved during the pre-trial phase through strategic motions and negotiations.
If there are weaknesses in the evidence or concerns with how the Plainfield, IL case was investigated, it may be possible to pursue dismissal, reduction of charges, or resolution through a negotiated plea agreement.
When Sexual Assault Charges May Be Dropped in Plainfield, IL
Charges can sometimes be dismissed in Plainfield, IL if the case against you is too weak or there are serious issues with how it was handled. This may happen when:
- Weak, insufficient, or unreliable evidence
- Contradictory or withdrawn witness statements
- Lack of forensic or corroborating evidence
- Violations of constitutional rights, such as unlawful searches or improper interrogations
- Investigative errors or misconduct
Getting a defense lawyer involved early in Plainfield, IL can make a major difference in identifying these issues and using them to your advantage.
When Plea Negotiations May Be Considered in Plainfield, IL
In certain situations, resolving a case through a negotiated plea agreement in Plainfield, IL may be considered instead of proceeding to trial. These discussions may focus on:
- Lowering the seriousness of the charges
- Avoiding harsh mandatory sentences
- Limiting potential penalties and long-term consequences
- Reaching a resolution without the uncertainty of a trial
Plea agreements are not appropriate in every case. Any decision should be made only after a thorough evaluation of the evidence and a clear understanding of the possible outcomes.
Why Being Ready for Trial Matters in Plainfield, IL
Even if your case doesn’t go to trial, having a lawyer in Plainfield, IL who is prepared for court can make a real difference. Prosecutors are more likely to negotiate seriously when they know your defense is ready to fight, which can lead to better outcomes early in the process.
Additional cases in the Plainfield, IL area our skilled legal team handles include:
- Sex Crimes Lawyer Illinois
- Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Illinois
- Violent Crimes Lawyer Illinois
- Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Illinois
Speak with a Sexual Assault Defense Attorney in Plainfield, IL Today
If you’ve been accused or charged of sexual assault in Plainfield, IL, you don’t have to deal with this alone.
The attorneys at Combs Waterkotte offer confidential consultations to help you understand your situation, your rights, and your legal options. Taking action early by speaking with a Plainfield, IL sexual assault defense lawyer can put you in a stronger position moving forward.
Give us a call at (314) 900-HELP today or contact us online to discuss the specifics of your case and begin building your defense in Plainfield, IL.
