What constitutes a sexual offense?

As many people in Illinois are aware, knowing the boundaries of the law is always important. Something that may seem like harmless fun could actually be illegal, getting you into serious trouble. If this leads to you being convicted, this in turn can have a dramatic effect on your future. You may find it harder to get a job, be turned down by some colleges or even be refused permission to live in certain areas.

One particularly serious branch of crimes to be convicted of are sexual offenses. Not only must you bear the usual consequences of a criminal conviction, such as fines or a prison sentence, but you may also be required to sign the sex offender register. This can also impose major limitations on your future and result in you being more readily implicated in future investigations.

However, the offenses that fall under the umbrella of sex crimes are many and varied, with some being arguably far more serious than others. In fact, as this article on sex crimes explains, you can even be charged for failing to sign the sex offender register when required. Other acts that are considered sexual offenses include the following:

  • Incest.
  • Indecent exposure.
  • Kidnapping, burglary or similar crimes which are found to be sexually motivated.

Of course, the list is far longer, including all aspects of sexual assault, abuse of a spouse and any form of sexual exploitation or abuse of a minor. However, they can all carry serious penalties.

If you have been charged with a sex crime, your future might feel very uncertain. However, all is not lost. An attorney may be able to help you build your defense and ensure that your side of the story is heard by the court.