Statutory rape is a crime that refers to sexual intercourse or penetration involving a person who is younger than the age of consent. This law is in place to protect children from engaging in sexual activities before they are mentally capable of understanding what it involves.Â
If a child or teenager becomes a victim of this form of sexual assault in Illinois, a related civil lawsuit may be brought against the offender or an institution in pursuit of justice and financial compensation. Contact an Illinois statutory rape lawyer at The Mahoney Law Firm for a free, private consultation about a potential case.
Why Clients Trust The Mahoney Law Firm
- Our law firm has almost 20 years of experience representing clients in rape, attempted rape, and statutory rape cases in Illinois and across the Midwest.
- We have successfully acquired over $100 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients. Attorney Ryan J. Mahoney has been named a Top 100 National Trial Lawyer.
- Ryan and his team always put the client first. We will handle your case your way. This includes keeping your identity anonymous, if desired.
What Are Illinois' Statutory Rape Laws?
In Illinois, the age of consent is 17 years old. If someone under the age of 17 is involved in sexual activity or conduct, it is a sex crime. This is true even if the activity was mutual between the two parties. Sexual intercourse with someone under the age of consent is considered statutory rape, regardless of whether the individuals were romantically involved or close in age.
Prosecution for statutory rape is more common in cases involving young children or a large age gap between the victim and the perpetrator. If someone is convicted of statutory rape in Illinois, he or she could face incarceration and/or hefty fines. If the charge is aggravated, such as if the offender is 17 or older and the victim is younger than 13, the penalties are enhanced.
Pursuing a Civil Lawsuit with a Statutory Rape Lawyer in Illinois
Statutory rape is not only a crime in Illinois but a civil tort or wrongdoing. This gives a victim grounds to file a civil lawsuit with an Illinois statutory rape attorney in pursuit of financial compensation from the offender or a third party to be made whole again.
Institutions such as schools, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, churches, and doctor’s offices can be named as defendants in certain statutory rape cases. If the institution reasonably should have known of the foreseeable risk of sexual activity involving underage individuals within its care but did nothing to prevent it, it could face liability.
A successful civil suit could lead to financial compensation for the victim’s related medical bills, mental health care, pain and suffering, psychological trauma, legal fees, lost wages, and more. It can also hold an individual and/or entity accountable, delivering greater justice to the victim.
What Is the Statute of Limitations on a Statutory Rape Civil Case in Illinois?
The statute of limitations, or deadline for filing, a statutory rape civil case in Illinois will depend on the circumstances. If the perpetrator is convicted of a Class X felony (the most severe type) or Class 1 sexual assault, there is no statute of limitations on a related civil lawsuit. Otherwise, civil litigation must be initiated within 20 years of the discovery of the abuse or of the victim’s 18th birthday, whichever is later.
Get Help From a Statutory Rape Attorney in Illinois with The Mahoney Law Firm
Statutory rape cases in Illinois can be complex and involve various criminal and civil laws. As a victim or the parent of a victim, you can protect your rights by contacting an Illinois statutory rape lawyer for legal guidance and assistance.Â
We will work closely with you to hold one or more parties accountable and maximize your financial recovery. Call The Mahoney Law Firm at (618) 717-4115 or contact us online, and we will get back to you as soon as possible to arrange a free case evaluation. We are here for you during this difficult time.
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