Criminal Sexual Conduct in Michigan
Michigan charges most sex offenses as Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC), divided into four degrees:
- CSC First Degree (MCL 750.520b): felony punishable by up to life in prison. A 25-year mandatory minimum applies when the defendant is 17 or older and the complainant is under 13.
- CSC Second Degree (MCL 750.520c): felony punishable by up to 15 years.
- CSC Third Degree (MCL 750.520d): felony punishable by up to 15 years.
- CSC Fourth Degree (MCL 750.520e): misdemeanor punishable by up to 2 years and/or a $500 fine.
Other sex-related charges include child sexually abusive material offenses (MCL 750.145c), using a computer to commit a crime, and indecent exposure (MCL 750.335a).
Sex Offender Registration
Many convictions require registration under Michigan's Sex Offenders Registration Act (MCL 28.721 et seq.), with registration periods of 15 years, 25 years, or life depending on the tier. Registration affects where you can live and work, so it must be considered from the very start of a case.
Building the Defense
These cases often rest on testimony, forensic interviews, and digital evidence. We investigate thoroughly, retain experts when needed, scrutinize forensic interview protocols, and prepare every case as if it is going to trial. Proven results include the dismissal of a felony juvenile sextortion case.