Chicago Violent Crime Defense Attorney

Defending Battery, Rape and Sexual Assault Charges

Rape is defined as sexual intercourse with another person without that person's consent. There are a multitude of variations of how rape can be alleged. Anyone making the claim of non-consensual sex can allege rape. Consensual sex between partners when one of the partners is under the "age of consent" can be considered rape. Examples of different forms of rape include date rape, marital rape or statutory rape. If you have been charged with a rape, contact a Chicago violent crime defense attorney from the Law Offices of Michael P. Schmiege to ensure that correct procedures are followed and that evidence that might exonerate you is not lost.

Sexual Assault and Sexual Battery

Sexual assault and battery refers to unwanted or non-consensual sexual contact that excludes intercourse. Despite the lesser nature of this crime, this may still result in a felony charge, depending on the circumstances. In this case, as in rape, the case depends on the victim's allegations and correct preparation and investigation of the case is critical. Many times there is only the victim who will be able to state what they think happened. Verifying the credibility of any witnesses becomes crucial. Expert witnesses such as medical experts or psychologists properly used by the defense can make the difference between a conviction and a complete acquittal. The Law Offices of Michael P. Schmiege will organize your defense team against a charge of sexual assault or battery.

About Aggravated Battery Charges in Chicago

Another serious crime, aggravated battery, is a second degree felony, and can carry a prison sentence of up to 15 years. The difference between battery and aggravated battery is that the aggravated case involves more harm, and can mean some type of permanent disfigurement, such as the loss of a limb. The Chicago area based team of attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael P. Schmiege are prepared to handle your case to get the best possible outcome given the circumstances. Every defendant has rights, and his side of the story must be heard. Sometimes, the victim of the supposed crime could have been mistaken in what they allege or it may happen that the victim was in fact the aggressor. Police may not have investigated the occurrence thoroughly and there may be other witnesses or facts missing from their reports. It is vital to contact the firm as soon as you have been charged with aggravated assault, so that the most detailed investigation can take place.

Contact a Chicago rape defense attorney from the Law Offices of Michael P. Schmiege without delay if you find yourself facing battery, rape or sexual assault charges.