Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Defending Your Rights Against Indecent Solicitation of a Child Charges in DuPage County, Illinois
DuPage County, Illinois, with its family-friendly communities and excellent schools, is a desirable place to live. However, serious criminal charges, such as indecent solicitation of a child, can deeply affect residents and disrupt lives. Allegations of this nature carry severe penalties under Illinois law, including prison time, sex offender registration, and lasting social stigma. If you have been accused, it is crucial to understand your rights and the legal options available to you.
The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg provides defense representation for those accused of indecent solicitation offenses throughout DuPage County and Northern Illinois.
What Constitutes Indecent Solicitation of a Child?
Under 720 ILCS 5/11-6, indecent solicitation of a child occurs when someone intentionally solicits a minor under the age of 17 to engage in sexual activity. The crime can occur in person or through electronic communication platforms such as social media, text messages, or online chatrooms.
Illinois law treats these offenses seriously, and the severity of the charge depends on the circumstances, including whether the defendant believed they were communicating with a minor and the steps taken to further the alleged act.
A conviction for Class 1 felony indecent solicitation may result in a prison sentence of 4 to 15 years, while a Class 4 felony conviction can lead to 1 to 3 years. Additional consequences include fines up to $25,000 and mandatory sex offender registration.
Criminal Case Process and Defending Against the Charges
When charged with indecent solicitation, the legal process begins with an arrest, often following an undercover operation or tip-off. Law enforcement may collect evidence such as chat logs, text messages, and witness statements. Once charged, the defendant will face an arraignment where they can enter a plea.
The prosecution must prove several elements to secure a conviction, including the defendant’s intent and knowledge of the minor’s age. A skilled defense attorney can challenge these claims through forensic analysis, questioning the reliability of evidence, and raising constitutional violations.
Potential defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: Misunderstandings or non-sexual communication can be misconstrued as criminal activity.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement coerced the defendant into committing the alleged offense.
- Invalid Evidence Collection: Unlawfully obtained evidence may be excluded from court proceedings.
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.
