Wisconsin law always considers sexual contact or intercourse with an individual under the age of 16 as a felony charge.
What Is First-Degree Sexual Assault of a Child?
First-degree sexual assault is a Class A felony if the defendant has sexual intercourse or sexual contact with an individual who is under the age of 13, and the victim suffers great bodily harm. This is the most serious sexual assault charge.
However, first-degree sexual assault is a Class B felony in Wisconsin in these cases:
- The defendant has sexual intercourse with someone who is under the age of 12
- The defendant has sexual intercourse with someone who is under the age of 16 by use of violence, or the threat of violence
- The defendant has sexual intercourse with someone who is under the age of 16 by use of violence or the threat of violence, and the defendant is at least 18 years old when the act occurs
- The defendant has sexual intercourse or sexual contact with someone who is under the age of 13
When considering the existing first-degree sexual assault of a minor laws in Wisconsin, it becomes clear that the legislature considers the most sexual assault offense against a child to be one involving bodily harm and young children.
Second-Degree Sexual Assault of a Child
If the defendant has sexual contact or intercourse with someone who is under the age of 16, then it is considered second-degree sexual assault and is a Class C felony.
Hire Experience
If you or someone you know has been charged with the sexual assault of a child in Wisconsin, now is not the time to hire an attorney who is unproven. The criminal defense attorneys at J. Kippa Law have vast experience in handling the sensitive nature of these types of cases. Call us for a free consultation at 920-731-1100 or fill out our contact form.
