Wisconsin takes allegations of child molestation extremely seriously. A conviction carries some of the harshest penalties possible under Wisconsin law, and the consequences of an allegation can affect all aspects of your life. If you face child molestation charges, you must hire a capable sex crimes attorney to give yourself the best chance of a favorable outcome.

Legal Definition of Molestation in Wisconsin

Wisconsin law doesn’t specifically use the term “child molestation,” and crimes of this type are referred to as “sexual assault of a child.” The law strictly prohibits sexual contact or intercourse with minors under the age of 16. Offenders may face different penalties depending on their age at the time of the offense, the type of sexual contact, and the victim’s age. The different levels of sexual assault of a child break down as follows:

• Sexual contact or intercourse with someone younger than 13 and causing great bodily harm – Class A felony
• Sexual intercourse with someone younger than 12 – Class B felony
• Sexual intercourse with someone younger than 16 by use of force, violence, or threats – Class B felony
• Sexual contact (meaning sexual acts other than penetration) with someone younger than 16 when the offender is at least 18 – Class B felony
• Sexual contact or intercourse with someone younger than 13 without causing great bodily harm – Class B felony
• Sexual contact or intercourse with someone younger than 16 without using force, violence, or threats – Class C felony

There are rare circumstances where sexual activity with a minor is not a felony. The law says sexual contact with someone between 15 and 16 years old or sexual intercourse with someone older than 15 is a Class A misdemeanor if the offender is younger than 19. Similarly, sexual intercourse with someone 16 or older is a Class A misdemeanor if the offender is older than 19, provided they are not spouses.

Consequences of Molestation

Depending on the facts of the case, the following felony penalties may apply in Wisconsin cases involving sexual assault of a child:

• Class C Felony – Up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $100,000, or both
• Class B Felony – Up to 60 years in prison
• Class A Felony – Life in prison

A Class A misdemeanor offense, meanwhile, is punishable by up to nine months in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.

These penalties are not the only potential consequences of a child molestation conviction. Offenders may have to register as sex offenders, which limits where they can live and will bar them from working in certain jobs. A felony conviction can also limit offenders’ access to credit and housing.

Contact a Wisconsin Child Sexual Assault Defense Attorney Now

Given the harsh penalties for molestation charges in Wisconsin, it’s essential to talk to a lawyer immediately if you face these charges. Attorney Christopher T. Van Wagner and his team can help you build a strong defense strategy, challenge the evidence against you, and negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges and penalties. If your case goes to trial, you can count on our team to stand by you at every stage and forcefully protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.