Gerlach Law | Criminal Defense & Trial Attorney
Call: 952-952-9723
Gerlach Law | Criminal Defense & Trial Attorney

An Ally And Skilled Defense Attorney
For Minnesotans Facing Criminal Charges

Staunch Defense Against Minnesota Sexual Assault Charges

Last updated on April 29, 2025

If you’re facing or being investigated for sex crimes in Minnesota, you need to act fast and contact an experienced sex crimes defense attorney to protect your rights. Sexual assault is one of the most serious charges you could face, and a conviction could bring severe consequences that haunt you for life, both legally and socially.

At Gerlach Law, I help those accused of sexual assault defend themselves in court and minimize the public fallout of such charges by offering experienced guidance and skilled legal advice.

The Stakes: Punishments And Social Stigma

A sex crime conviction in Minnesota carries heavy penalties, and the social fallout is just as brutal. Here’s what you’re up against:

  • Imprisonment: Penalties vary by charge:
    • First-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct: Up to 30 years in prison, fines up to $40,000.
    • Second-Degree: Up to 25 years, fines up to $35,000.
    • Third-Degree: Up to 15 years, fines up to $30,000.
    • Fourth-Degree: Up to 10 years, fines up to $20,000.
    • Fifth-Degree: Up to 7 years for felonies or 1 year for gross misdemeanors, fines up to $10,000.
    • Misdemeanor charges: Charges such as indecent exposure could mean up to 90 days in jail, while computer-based crimes like child pornography can lead to 7-plus years.
  • Social Stigma: Beyond prison, you’d face lifelong consequences. You might be required to register as a sex offender, which is public information and could destroy your reputation, limit job prospects and strain personal relationships. Neighbors, employers, and even strangers might shun or harass you. The label “sex offender” carries a stigma that’s hard to escape, even after serving your sentence.

Immediate legal representation is crucial to minimize the damage from sexual assault charges.

Possible Defenses To Protect You

Every case is unique, but I can explore defenses tailored to your situation. Some potential strategies include:

  • Consent: If the alleged victim consented and was of legal age, this could negate certain charges like rape or sexual assault.
  • False allegations: You might be the victim of a malicious or mistaken accusation. I could investigate motives, inconsistencies or lack of evidence to challenge the accuser’s credibility.
  • Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. I could argue for dismissal if the evidence is weak, circumstantial or improperly obtained.
  • Mistaken identity: In some cases, you might not be the perpetrator, and I could use alibis, surveillance or witness testimony to prove it.
  • Statutory defenses: For “statutory rape,” I might argue you reasonably believed the partner was of legal age, depending on Minnesota law.
  • Constitutional violations: If police violated your rights (e.g., illegal search or coerced statements), I could get evidence suppressed.

I will analyze your case to determine the most applicable defense, whether it’s negotiating a plea, seeking dismissal or fighting at trial.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Time is critical. The sooner you get me on your side, the better I can:

  • Preserve evidence: Collect witness statements, surveillance footage or other evidence before it’s lost.
  • Challenge the investigation: Intervene early to counter aggressive police tactics or flawed procedures.
  • Build a strategy: Develop a defense before the prosecution solidifies its case.
  • Protect your rights: Ensure you don’t make mistakes, like talking to police, that could harm your case.

Delaying could weaken your defense and give the prosecution an edge. You need to act now to level the playing field.

Why You Should Stay Silent

You must not talk to anyone, especially not police or investigators, until you have me by your side. You might feel tempted to explain your side, but anything you say can be used against you in court. Investigators are trained to spot inconsistencies and elicit damaging statements. Even innocent comments can hurt your case. Let me manage all communication.

Types Of Charges You Might Face

Minnesota sex crimes vary widely, each with its own penalties and defenses:

Each charge demands a tailored defense, and I will guide you through the specifics.

Why I Am the Attorney You Need

As a Minnesota sex crimes defense attorney with over 25 years of experience, I focus solely on criminal defense. As a former prosecutor, I understand how the police and government build their cases, and I’ll use that insight to fight for you. Whether pushing for a complete dismissal or battling it out in court, I will work tirelessly to defend your interests. Call Gerlach Law at 952-952-9723 to schedule your free case evaluation or reach out online.