Charged with Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse? Chicago Criminal Lawyer Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend You
Aggravated criminal sexual abuse is one of the most serious sex crime charges in Illinois. Many people associate this offense with statutory rape, which generally refers to a situation where an adult engages in sexual contact with a minor. Under Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/11-1.60), aggravated criminal sexual abuse occurs when a person 17 or older engages in sexual contact with a minor between 13 and 16 years old, where the age gap is at least five years.
This is a Class 2 felony, punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000. Additionally, a conviction requires lifetime registration as a sex offender, which can permanently affect your employment opportunities, housing options, and personal reputation.
Under the new Cook County State’s Attorney’s policies introduced in December 2024, sex crime prosecutions have become even more aggressive. Cases that previously might have resulted in probation or reduced charges are now being pursued as felonies with mandatory prison time. Prosecutors are also more reluctant to offer plea deals or deferred prosecution. This makes it more critical than ever to have a highly experienced defense attorney to fight back against these charges.
If you are accused of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, you cannot afford to delay securing legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is a former felony prosecutor who knows how the prosecution builds its cases and how to dismantle them. Contact him today to start building a strong defense and protecting your future.
Cook County’s Stricter Prosecution of Sex Crimes in 2025
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office has significantly intensified the prosecution of sex crimes, making it much harder to obtain probation, plea deals, or alternative sentencing options.
- Stricter Charging Policies – Many cases that previously could have been reduced to misdemeanors or resolved with deferred prosecution are now being prosecuted as felonies with harsher sentences.
- Harsher Penalties in Plea Bargains – Prosecutors are now less willing to negotiate reduced charges, making a strong legal defense even more important.
- Increased Prison Sentences – Courts are handing down harsher penalties in sex crime cases, particularly those involving alleged victims under the age of 18.
With these new prosecution strategies, even a false or exaggerated accusation can jeopardize your freedom. You need a criminal defense attorney who understands the new legal landscape and can fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Understanding Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse in Illinois
Aggravated criminal sexual abuse covers a wide range of offenses, including:
- Sexual contact with a minor (13 to 16 years old) by an adult who is at least 5 years older
- Situations where force, threats, or a weapon were used
- Cases where the alleged victim is under 9 years old
- Any sexual contact that results in bodily harm to the alleged victim
In many cases, individuals accused of aggravated criminal sexual abuse never intended to break the law. Misunderstandings, false accusations, or misleading evidence can lead to serious criminal charges.
Why You Need an Experienced Sex Crimes Attorney
The stakes are incredibly high in any case involving aggravated criminal sexual abuse. Without the right defense strategy, you could face years in prison, lifelong sex offender registration, and a permanent criminal record.
Andrew M. Weisberg is a Chicago criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of Illinois sex crime laws. His background as a former felony prosecutor allows him to:
✔ Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
✔ Challenge unreliable evidence, including witness statements and forensic reports
✔ Expose false or exaggerated accusations
✔ Negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
Given the new, tougher approach to prosecuting sex crimes, it is more critical than ever to hire a skilled attorney as early as possible.
Defense Strategies for Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse Cases
Andrew M. Weisberg has successfully defended clients in complex sex crime cases by using strategic defense tactics, including:
- Consent and Misinterpretation – In some cases, evidence may show that both parties believed the contact was consensual or that the allegations were exaggerated.
- False Accusations – Divorce disputes, custody battles, or personal vendettas can lead to false or misleading allegations. Andrew will thoroughly investigate the accuser’s claims and uncover inconsistencies in their story.
- Lack of Evidence – If there is no physical evidence or the prosecution’s case relies solely on testimony, a strong cross-examination can expose weaknesses and lead to case dismissal.
- Violation of Constitutional Rights – If law enforcement violated your Miranda rights, conducted an illegal search and seizure, or used coercion during interrogation, Andrew will fight to have evidence suppressed.
A conviction for aggravated criminal sexual abuse can completely derail your life. That’s why you need the strongest possible defense from the very beginning.
Andrew M. Weisberg: The Right Attorney for Your Case
With the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office pushing for harsher penalties, your choice of defense attorney could be the most important decision you ever make.
Andrew M. Weisberg is widely recognized as one of Chicago’s top criminal defense attorneys, with a long history of successfully defending clients against serious sex crime charges.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg?
✔ Former Felony Prosecutor – Knows how the prosecution builds cases and how to fight them
✔ Proven Track Record – Successfully defended clients in high-stakes sex crime cases
✔ Highly Respected in the Legal Community – Trusted by judges, prosecutors, and fellow attorneys
✔ Dedicated to Client Defense – Focuses on minimizing consequences and protecting your rights
With the new, harsher approach to sex crime cases in Cook County, you need a lawyer who understands how to navigate this new legal environment.
Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for Immediate Legal Assistance
If you have been arrested or charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse in Chicago, do not wait to seek legal counsel. Prosecutors are taking a tougher stance than ever before, and delaying your defense could cost you your freedom.
Call Andrew M. Weisberg today for a confidential, free consultation.
Call Now: (773) 908-9811 – Available 24/7
Online: Fill out our Case Review Form for immediate assistance
With Cook County’s stricter prosecution policies, your future is at risk. Let Andrew M. Weisberg fight for you and build the strongest defense possible.
