Sexual Assault Attorney in Bloomington

Support, Answers & Dedicated Defense—Right Here in Bloomington

When you or a loved one faces sexual assault charges in Bloomington, the stress can feel overwhelming. At Johnson Law Group, LLC, we provide guidance and steady support from your first call onward. Our legal team brings depth of experience combined with real, personal attention to help you navigate the challenges of the Illinois justice system.

Our understanding of the local Bloomington and McLean County court process helps us give straightforward answers at each stage. This community expects fairness, yet criminal charges often bring public scrutiny. By working with a law firm respected for professionalism and clear communication, you get advocates who explain what judges expect, what procedures matter, and how to prepare for every step

Contact a Bloomington sexual assault lawyer who knows the prosecution’s strategies from the inside out. Call (309) 565-8825 or reach out online for your free consultation today. Available 24/7.

Understanding Sexual Assault Laws in Illinois

The Illinois Criminal Code addresses sexual assault under the umbrella of "Criminal Sexual Assault" and "Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault," as defined in the Illinois Compiled Statutes (720 ILCS 5/11-1.20 and 5/11-1.30). It is essential to understand the specific elements of each charge to mount a proper defense.

A person commits Criminal Sexual Assault if they commit an act of sexual penetration and any of the following circumstances exist:

• The person uses force or threat of force to accomplish the act.
• The person knows the victim is unable to understand the nature of the act or is unable to give knowing consent (e.g., due to intellectual disability, mental disease, or physical helplessness).
• The victim is under 18 years of age, and the perpetrator is a family member.

Penalties of Sexual Assault Convictions in Illinois

A conviction for sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault in Illinois carries some of the harshest penalties under state law, often including mandatory prison sentences and devastating lifelong restrictions.

Direct Penalties

• Criminal Sexual Assault is a Class 1 Felony, punishable by a determinate sentence of 4 to 15 years in state prison.
• Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault is a Class X Felony, which is a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 6 to 30 years. Certain factors, such as the use of a firearm, can trigger mandatory sentence enhancements, sometimes adding 15 to 25 years or more to the sentence.

Collateral Consequences

The penalties for sexual assault are uniquely punitive, extending far beyond the term of imprisonment:

• Sex Offender Registration: A conviction for either offense requires lifetime registration with the Illinois State Police as a sex offender. This publicly accessible registry severely limits where a person can live, work, or even travel, often restricting residency near schools, parks, and bus stops.
• Civil Commitment: Following a prison sentence, an individual may face civil commitment proceedings, which can result in indefinite institutionalization if the state deems them a sexually dangerous person.
• Loss of Rights: The convicted person permanently loses the right to possess firearms. They may also lose their professional licenses and face deportation if they are not a U.S. citizen.
• Social and Professional Stigma: The public stigma associated with a sexual assault conviction is immense, causing irreparable damage to reputation and relationships.

Our firm's strategy always involves fighting to prevent a conviction that would lead to this devastating registration requirement.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Sexual Assault Defense

The defense strategies utilized by Johnson Law Group are informed by our experience on both sides of the courtroom. As a Bloomington sexual assault lawyer with prosecutorial experience, we know how the state's case will be structured, and we plan accordingly.

• Challenging the Credibility of Accusation: We conduct exhaustive independent investigations to uncover inconsistencies in the accuser's testimony, motive to fabricate, or prior history that may impact their credibility. The timing of the report, external communications, and actions following the alleged event are all thoroughly scrutinized.
• Lack of Intent/Mistake of Fact: In certain cases, we may argue that the accused genuinely and reasonably believed that consent had been given, creating a defense based on mistake of fact. This requires detailed factual analysis and presentation of the circumstances from the accused's perspective.
• Forensic and Scientific Defenses: Sexual assault cases frequently hinge on DNA or medical evidence. We challenge the integrity of the evidence collection, the laboratory testing methods, and the interpretation of the results to cast reasonable doubt on the state's scientific claims.
• Constitutional Rights Violations: We zealously protect your Fourth and Fifth Amendment rights. Any failure by law enforcement to follow proper search and seizure procedures or to administer Miranda warnings will be used to suppress evidence crucial to the prosecution’s case.

Our firm is committed to protecting your life, reputation, and freedom with the experience only former prosecutors can offer.

Why Choose Our Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers in Bloomington

People across Central Illinois turn to our attorneys because we balance strong resources with individual service. As one of the largest criminal defense teams in the area, we deliver:

• Decades of combined experience: Our attorneys bring over 100 years of criminal defense representation—a track record that helps clients make informed decisions in difficult situations.
• Personal attention at every step: We work closely with you and your family, making sure your questions are answered and your concerns addressed throughout the process.
• Commitment to leveling the playing field: We know local courts, understand how prosecutors work in Bloomington, and guide clients on their rights according to Illinois law.

We take a team approach, so you always have access to someone who understands your case if circumstances change. If a court schedules a new hearing or prosecutors shift their focus, you will receive communication from a team member who knows the details. 

Our clients appreciate not only our background in sexual crimes defense but also the way we show respect and keep them updated throughout their legal journey. By choosing Johnson Law Group, LLC, you get the benefits of a large team with the reassurance of truly personal legal care.

How Our Sexual Assault Lawyers in Bloomington Support Your Defense

Sexual assault allegations have life-changing consequences, making it critical to understand your defense options. We offer a detailed, step-by-step approach designed to reduce confusion and give clients a clear sense of control. 

Here is what our team does:

• Clear explanations of your rights so you can confidently participate in your own defense
• Detailed review of evidence and charges to ensure nothing is overlooked
• Ongoing communication with you and your loved ones to keep everyone informed
• Guidance consistent with Bloomington and McLean County procedures so you know what to expect in every step

Our legal team keeps up with changes in the system and shares information in plain, practical language. We focus on not only addressing the case details, but supporting your life, work, and reputation as you navigate the journey ahead.

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