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Indecent Solicitation of a Child Defense Attorney in DuPage County, Illinois
Defending Against Indecent Solicitation of a Child Charges in DuPage County, Illinois
DuPage County, Illinois, is known for its thriving suburban communities, excellent schools, and close proximity to Chicago. Despite its positive reputation, serious criminal allegations like indecent solicitation of a child can have devastating impacts on residents and their families. Facing such a charge can be overwhelming, as Illinois law imposes severe penalties for crimes involving minors. If you are accused of indecent solicitation of a child in DuPage County, it is essential to understand your legal rights and secure aggressive legal representation.
The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg has extensive experience defending those accused of indecent solicitation offenses throughout DuPage County and the surrounding areas. Understanding the law and its consequences is the first step in protecting your freedom and future.
Illinois Law on Indecent Solicitation of a Child
Indecent solicitation of a child is governed by 720 ILCS 5/11-6. Under this statute, a person commits indecent solicitation when they knowingly:
- Solicit a child under the age of 17 to engage in sexual activity.
- Use electronic communication, such as text messages, emails, or social media, to entice a minor into unlawful sexual activity.
The law is particularly strict on offenses involving minors, and the penalties reflect the seriousness with which Illinois treats crimes against children. Indecent solicitation can be charged as either a Class 1 felony or a Class 4 felony, depending on the circumstances, including the age of the child and the intent of the communication.
A Class 1 felony conviction can result in a prison sentence ranging from 4 to 15 years, while a Class 4 felony carries a penalty of 1 to 3 years in prison. Fines can reach up to $25,000, and mandatory registration as a sex offender under the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act is often required.
How Criminal Cases Begin and Progress
A charge of indecent solicitation often begins with a police investigation, sometimes initiated through undercover sting operations where law enforcement officers pose as minors in online chats. Once an arrest occurs, the accused is typically taken into custody, booked, and may be required to post bail before release.
The case progresses with an arraignment, where the defendant is formally charged and has the opportunity to enter a plea. Following this, both the defense and prosecution engage in the discovery process, where evidence is exchanged and reviewed. The defense attorney plays a critical role in identifying procedural errors, constitutional violations, or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
If the case proceeds to trial, the prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Evidence may include digital communications, witness testimony, and forensic reports, all of which must be carefully scrutinized for accuracy and legality.
Penalties and Consequences for Indecent Solicitation
The consequences of a conviction extend far beyond the courtroom. Beyond prison time and heavy fines, a conviction often results in:
- Mandatory sex offender registration for a minimum of 10 years.
- Restrictions on where you can live, work, or travel.
- Permanent damage to personal and professional relationships.
- Loss of employment and housing opportunities.
Given the lifelong impact of a conviction, it is critical to seek aggressive legal defense to challenge the charges and protect your future.
Legal Defenses for Indecent Solicitation Charges
Several defenses can be raised against allegations of indecent solicitation of a child, including:
- Entrapment: If law enforcement officers used coercion or manipulation to encourage the alleged crime, this could form a valid defense.
- Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove the defendant’s intent to engage in illegal activity, which can be challenged through evidence or context of the communication.
- Mistaken Identity: If the communication was initiated through electronic platforms, mistaken identity or account hacking can be explored as defenses.
- Violation of Constitutional Rights: If evidence was gathered improperly or without a valid search warrant, it may be possible to suppress that evidence from the case.
An experienced defense attorney can assess the specifics of your case and develop a defense strategy based on the available evidence.
Why You Need an Attorney at Every Stage of the Criminal Process
Facing a serious charge such as indecent solicitation requires legal representation from the moment of arrest. A qualified defense attorney can:
- Ensure your rights are protected during police questioning.
- Challenge improper evidence collection.
- Negotiate plea deals when appropriate.
- Provide a comprehensive defense strategy in court.
Attempting to handle such serious charges without professional legal counsel can result in harsher penalties and a diminished chance of a successful outcome.
Call Attorney David Freidberg For a FREE Consultation
If you have been accused of a sex crime in DuPage County, Illinois, you need a skilled defense attorney to protect your rights and future. The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg offers compassionate and aggressive representation for clients facing these serious charges. Contact us today for a free consultation 24/7 at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442. We proudly serve DuPage County, Cook County, Will County, and Lake County. Let us fight for your defense and your future.