Criminal Sexual Conduct Committed to Excellence

Sex Crime Lawyer in Grand Rapids

Experienced Defense Against Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges in Michigan

If you've been accused of any degree of criminal sexual conduct, you need a sex crime attorney in Grand Rapids on your side to help you understand the specifics of your charge. At Tanis Schultz, our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience. We have successfully handled many high-profile and complex legal challenges and understand Michigan courts and how the judicial system works. When you hire us for your defense, you gain an advocate who fights for your rights and works toward the best possible outcome.

Discuss your case during a free consultation by calling us at (616) 227-3737 today.

What Is Criminal Sexual Conduct in Michigan?

Michigan defines criminal sexual conduct as unwanted or unlawful sexual contact or penetration with another person. Sexual contact includes touching someone's intimate parts or the clothing covering these areas. Sexual penetration covers even minimal intrusion into the genital opening under state law.

Michigan’s detailed definitions give broad authority to charge a range of actions as criminal. These laws protect people across various circumstances. However, for those facing allegations, the complexity of these standards makes it critical to work with an experienced sex crime lawyer in Grand Rapids who can guide you through your defense. Each detail of the statute matters, shaping the approach your legal team takes in court. Michigan lawmakers created these definitions to protect the public while reducing ambiguity in the process.

For example, the courts treat acts like cunnilingus or digital penetration as sexual penetration. These definitions apply whether the act happened to the alleged victim or the accused.

Four Degrees of Criminal Sexual Conduct in Michigan

Michigan law breaks criminal sexual conduct into four degrees, often called CSC cases. For example, a second-degree charge is referred to as CSC 2nd or second-degree CSC. These degrees are not organized in a purely logical order from first to fourth, which can lead to confusion. Often, a single case includes multiple charges from different degrees, such as a mix of second- and third-degree CSC counts.

Each CSC degree links to certain behaviors and factors set by the law. Prosecutors use various details when deciding what charges to file. Because these distinctions are specific and can be confusing, you need a legal team with a strong grasp of Michigan’s criminal code. Understanding each degree, what they mean for your defense, and the penalties that could result helps you make informed decisions moving forward.

First-Degree CSC: Understanding the Severity & Consequences

A person commits this offense if they engage in sexual penetration and:

  • The Complaining Witness Was Under 13 Years of Age
  • The Complaining Witness Was Between 13 & 15 Years of Age And the Alleged Actor Had A Specific Non-intimate Relationship With Them
  • The Act Occurred During the Commission of A Separate Felony
  • The Alleged Actor Engaged In the Conduct With One or More Other People Under Specific Circumstances
  • The Alleged Actor Had A Weapon On Them
  • The Complaining Witness Suffered Personal Injury As A Result of the Use of Force or Coercion
  • The Complaining Witness Was Mentally Incapable, Mentally Incapacitated, or Physically Helpless

First-degree CSC carries a possible life sentence. If the alleged victim was under 13, the law sets a mandatory minimum of 25 years in prison. These severe penalties highlight why anyone accused of first-degree CSC must act quickly and secure experienced defense. A conviction affects nearly every aspect of life, making comprehensive legal support essential for reviewing the facts and the prosecution’s claims from every angle.

Local prosecutors in Grand Rapids and Kent County scrutinize first-degree CSC cases closely. Investigations often involve detailed forensic evidence and pretrial hearings at the local courthouse. Attorneys who know the court system in this region can anticipate steps in the process and help ensure your rights remain protected.

Second-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct

This offense occurs when sexual contact is committed and:

  • The Complaining Witness Was Under 13 Years of Age
  • The Complaining Witness Was Between 13 & 15 Years of Age And Had A Specific Non-intimate Relationship With the Alleged Actor
  • The Contact Occurred During the Commission of A Separate Felony
  • The Alleged Actor Had One or More Accomplices And They Engaged In the Conduct Under Specific Circumstances
  • The Alleged Actor Had A Weapon On Them
  • The Alleged Actor Used Force or Coercion And Caused Injury
  • The Complaining Witness Was Mentally Incapable, Mentally Incapacitated, or Physically Helpless And They Suffered An Injury or They Had A Specific Relationship With the Alleged Actor
  • The Complaining Witness Was Incarcerated or On Probation

A conviction for second-degree CSC is punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Those facing these allegations need to understand the potential long-term consequences and the unique ways the court treats each case. Details such as the relationship and circumstances between the accused and the complaining witness affect the outcome and shape the defense plan.

Second-degree CSC cases often involve video evidence or DNA collection, especially in larger West Michigan cities like Grand Rapids. The review process can involve multiple agencies, making the defense more involved and the timing unpredictable. Local attorneys with experience in Kent County’s system help clients address these logistics and manage the steps required to present a clear defense.

Third-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct

This charge is brought when the incident involves sexual penetration and:

  • The Complaining Witness Was Between 13 & 15 Years of Age
  • The Alleged Actor Used Force or Coercion
  • The Complaining Witness Is Mentally Incapable, Mentally Incapacitated, or Physically Helpless
  • The Complaining Witness Is Related By Blood to the Alleged Actor
  • The Complaining Witness Was A Student Between 16 & 17 Years of Age
  • The Complaining Witness Was Between 16 & 25 Years of Age And Receives Special Education
  • The Alleged Actor Worked For A Child Care Facility

Third-degree CSC also carries a maximum of 15 years in prison, but sentencing guidelines for second- and third-degree CSC differ, which may affect the length of any prison term. The law considers the ages involved and the type of relationship between those accused and the complaining witness. The details and the roles of those involved—such as caregivers or educators—can strongly impact how Kent County courts handle each case.

Judges in Grand Rapids may review school, medical, or employment records and hear from professionals connected to the case. Understanding local procedure helps legal teams in Michigan prepare strong, tailored defenses and keep pace with court expectations.

Fourth-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct

This offense is committed when a person has sexual contact with another and:

  • The Complaining Witness Was Between 13 & 15 Years of Age
  • The Complaining Witness Was Between 13 & 15 Years of Age And the Alleged Actor Is At Least 5 Years Older Than Them
  • The Alleged Actor Used Force or Coercion
  • The Complaining Witness Was Mentally Incapable, Mentally Incapacitated, or Physically Helpless
  • The Complaining Witness & Alleged Actor Are Related By Blood
  • The Alleged Actor Was the Complaining Witness's Mental Health Care Professional
  • The Complaining Witness Was Between 16 & 17 Years of Age and A Student At A Public or Non-public School
  • The Complaining Witness Was Between 16 & 25 Years of Age And Receiving Special Education
  • The Alleged Actor Worked For A Child Care Facility

Fourth-degree CSC is classified as a high court misdemeanor in Michigan, capped at a two-year maximum sentence. While not a felony, a conviction can still bring significant penalties and lingering effects. Past or current professional or personal relationships between those involved often play a larger role in these cases.

City employers, landlords, and organizations in Grand Rapids may react strongly to any sex crime-related conviction. A criminal defense lawyer familiar with Kent County’s approach can help clients understand the impact of a high court misdemeanor both now and later, and explain steps to protect future opportunities.

Learn more about how we can help you by contacting us online or calling (616) 227-3737 today!

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Understanding the Legal Process for CSC Charges in Grand Rapids

In Grand Rapids, the process starts when prosecutors file charges and the accused attends arraignment, where the judge explains the charges and asks for a plea. You should have a sex crime attorney in Grand Rapids present at this stage to protect your rights. After arraignment, both sides exchange information, known as discovery, and may file pre-trial motions to shape what evidence the court will review. This time is critical for building the defense strategy and testing the strength of the state’s case—including negotiating potential plea deals if appropriate.

The case continues with preliminary hearings. Judges in Kent County district court decide if enough evidence exists to move the case forward. These hearings usually happen at the main Grand Rapids courthouse. The judge may set bond conditions, which can restrict travel or require regular check-ins. Pretrial preparation can take weeks and involves reviewing police reports, analyzing evidence, and seeking to suppress or challenge charges as appropriate within the Michigan system.

If the case advances to trial, either a jury or judge hears evidence, and attorneys call witnesses and make arguments. Handling the complex steps in Michigan’s legal process requires planning, attention to detail, and familiarity with local rules. If there is a conviction, a defendant can appeal if errors occurred during the original trial. Local experience matters at every step, from the initial filing through appeals in the Michigan courts.

Our Approach to Sex Crime Defense in Grand Rapids

At Tanis Schultz, we use a team-based approach to defending clients accused of sex crimes in Grand Rapids. Our attorneys work together to review each case in detail, leveraging decades of combined experience with Michigan law. We keep communication open at every stage, whether during a pre-charge investigation, arraignment at Kent County courthouse, or the trial phase. Using advanced technology, we manage complex evidence and records efficiently, meeting critical deadlines and tracking case progress. Our knowledge of Grand Rapids and the Kent County courts helps us prepare for local procedures and address important requirements as soon as they arise. This collaborative process allows us to develop strong defense strategies best suited for each client’s situation.

How Michigan Sex Offender Registration Laws Affect Grand Rapids Cases

Michigan’s Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA) requires many people convicted of sex crimes to report to law enforcement, which shapes life in the years after the case ends. In Grand Rapids, people required to register typically check in with the Kent County Sheriff’s Office or city police, and any change of address, employer, or travel beyond the area must be updated quickly. Local agencies frequently monitor compliance, and any mistake—no matter how small—could lead to new penalties. Rules for SORA can impact where someone lives or works for years. Courts in West Michigan may interpret these requirements strictly, so understanding the local process and timing helps prevent additional legal trouble. At Tanis Schultz, we help clients stay informed about SORA and comply with the steps needed for a smoother transition after court.

Common Legal Defenses in CSC Charges

Understanding possible legal defenses matters if you face CSC charges in Grand Rapids. Consent is one common defense, with the goal of showing that the accused and the other party agreed to the act—supported by texts, emails, or witness accounts. Defenders may also pinpoint inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements or examine possible motives for making false allegations.

Defense strategies in Kent County courts may include working with forensic analysts to review evidence or challenging how police gathered surveillance footage or records. Sometimes the defense may ask the court to throw out evidence collected in violation of Michigan procedure or highlight investigation issues specific to the Grand Rapids police process. The right approach depends on the facts and local practices of the West Michigan courts.

Mistaken identity is also a defense, especially when clear forensic evidence is lacking. DNA evidence and how it is collected and handled can strongly affect whether prosecutors can proceed. Experienced legal teams document possible issues with the evidence, ensuring the jury only considers what the law allows. Working with a sex crime attorney in Grand Rapids from Tanis Schultz means you benefit from a careful, methodical defense that considers every viable approach.

Impact of CSC Charges & the Importance of a Sex Crime Lawyer in Grand Rapids

Charges of criminal sexual conduct can affect more than just your freedom. A conviction could mean prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and major personal and professional setbacks. The social stigma and fallout can influence job prospects, relationships, and how the community looks at you. You need to know how these potential consequences can impact life both during and after the case.

People convicted in Michigan must register on the Sex Offender Registry. In Grand Rapids and Kent County, local law enforcement manages this process, which includes reporting requirements, restrictions on where you can live, and routine check-ins. Employers, schools, and landlords in West Michigan often check this registry, which can shape access to jobs and housing. Knowing these requirements helps prevent unintentional violations that could result in increased penalties.

Given what is at stake, finding a qualified sex crime lawyer in Grand Rapids should be a top priority. At Tanis Schultz, we focus on client-driven solutions throughout the case. Our team takes a comprehensive approach, helping clients address the charges and also considering impacts on family life, career, and reputation. We support each client so they stay informed as they move through Michigan’s legal process and strive for the best possible result.

FAQs About Criminal Sexual Conduct in Grand Rapids

How Is Consent Determined in CSC Charges?

Consent is often at the heart of criminal sexual conduct charges. In Michigan, the law defines consent as an agreement between both people to participate in sexual activity. Coercion, threats, or an inability to give consent due to age or incapacitation can invalidate agreement and result in prosecution. Evidence like conversations or statements may help show what actually happened.

What Happens If I'm Convicted of CSC in Michigan?

A conviction for criminal sexual conduct in Michigan can lead to prison, fines, and sex offender registration. The sentence varies by degree of CSC, the facts, and any criminal history. Fourth-degree CSC, a high court misdemeanor, results in less severe penalties, but conviction still affects employment and standing in the community. First- and second-degree CSC carry much heavier prison terms, which make a strong defense essential.

Is It Possible to Have CSC Charges Reduced or Dismissed?

Some cases may lead to reduced or dismissed criminal sexual conduct charges, based on the strength of the evidence and the legal defense. Plea deals and procedural or evidence errors can sometimes change the outcome in Michigan courts. For instance, if important legal rights were violated or evidence is unreliable, these factors may support a motion for dismissal. Involvement from experienced legal counsel can help spot and address these possibilities as early as possible.

How Can a Sex Crime Attorney in Grand Rapids Help in a CSC Charge?

A sex crime attorney in Grand Rapids serves as your advocate at every stage of a criminal sexual conduct case. Defense lawyers study the evidence, work with expert witnesses, and look for errors in the process. A legal team can help you understand the charges, assess risks, and offer strategies designed to achieve the best outcome under Michigan law. With Tanis Schultz, clients also receive support for handling issues that extend beyond the courtroom.

What Are the Penalties for Failing to Register as a Sex Offender in Michigan?

Failing to register as a sex offender in Michigan carries strict penalties. Law enforcement can file new charges, bring fines, and order more jail time. SORA requires those registered to update details any time they move, change employment, or travel, and the state enforces these requirements tightly. Understanding your reporting obligations with guidance from a lawyer prevents additional consequences.

Contact Our Grand Rapids Sex Crime Attorneys Today

If you've been charged with criminal sexual conduct in any degree, our Grand Rapids sex crime attorneys can help you understand your rights and legal options. Knowing what is at stake if you face a criminal sexual conduct charge is crucial. Our dedicated legal team provides reliable counsel and support through every part of the legal process, keeping you prepared as your case moves forward. Our goal is to defend your rights and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact our office at (616) 227-3737 for a free consultation.

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