Child Sexual Abuse Charges in Michigan: Understanding the Law and Your Rights
Allegations of child sexual abuse are some of the most serious and emotionally charged accusations anyone can face. In Michigan, these cases are prosecuted aggressively, and they often involve both criminal charges and additional consequences in family court or through CPS investigations.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with any kind of sexual misconduct involving a minor in Lansing, Ingham County, or anywhere in Mid-Michigan, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney working for you right away.
What Counts as Sexual Abuse of a Child in Michigan?
Under Michigan law, child sexual abuse covers any sexual act involving someone under the age of consent, which is sixteen years old in Michigan. The law looks closely at the relationship between the accused and the child, the child’s age, and whether force, threats, or a position of authority was involved. All of these factors can influence the severity of the charges.
Sexual abuse can include:
- Sexual penetration, whether voluntary or not
- Molestation or any inappropriate touching
- Rape or sexual assault
- Any involvement with child pornography, including producing, possessing, or distributing it
- Soliciting or involving a child in prostitution
- Incest
- Sexual abuse by another minor (sometimes called child-on-child abuse)
It is important to know that even if a minor appears willing to participate, Michigan law says anyone under sixteen cannot legally consent to any sexual activity with an adult.
What About “Statutory Rape”?
Although Michigan law no longer uses the term “statutory rape,” the legal concept still exists. If someone who is sixteen or older has sexual activity with anyone younger than sixteen, they can be charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct, usually in the third degree.
Many people—especially young adults—find themselves facing these charges after a consensual relationship with a younger teen comes to light, often when a parent or guardian reports the relationship to the authorities. Even if both people believed the relationship was mutual, the consequences can be severe.
Signs of Sexual Abuse in Children
Sexual abuse is often hidden, and children may not speak up right away. Professionals look for a range of physical and behavioral indicators, including:
- Pain, bleeding, or infections in the genital area
- Difficulty sitting or walking
- Nightmares, bedwetting, or suddenly acting much younger
- Intense fear of a specific person or place
- Depression, self-harm, or withdrawing from friends
- Sexualized behavior that does not match the child’s age
Because these signs can also be caused by other types of trauma or stress, false accusations are not uncommon, especially during heated custody battles or in families experiencing high conflict.
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Sexual Abuse
Research shows that people who were victims of sexual abuse as children often deal with long-term challenges, such as:
- Emotional struggles like anxiety, PTSD, shame, low self-esteem, or even thoughts of suicide
- Behavior issues, including eating disorders, substance abuse, self-injury, or risky sexual behavior
- Problems with relationships, difficulty in school, or feeling disconnected from others
Experts often testify about these long-term effects, and prosecutors may build cases based on these symptoms even if there is little or no physical evidence.
How Child Sexual Abuse Is Prosecuted in Michigan
Most charges fall under Michigan’s Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) laws:
- First-degree CSC involves sexual penetration with a child under thirteen or in cases with aggravating factors and can result in a life sentence
- Second-degree CSC involves sexual contact with a child under thirteen or involves coercion and can lead to up to fifteen years in prison
- Third-degree CSC involves sexual penetration with a child between thirteen and fifteen and carries a sentence of up to fifteen years
- Fourth-degree CSC covers sexual contact with a minor or acts involving coercion, with penalties of up to two years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration
If the crime involves force, a position of authority, or a family relationship (such as a parent, teacher, coach, or older sibling), the charges can become even more serious. Many convictions also require you to register as a sex offender in Michigan, which can make it hard to find a job, a place to live, or even to be involved in your child’s life.
Why You Need an Experienced Defense Attorney Right Away
Being accused of child sexual abuse in Michigan can turn your life upside down. Even just an accusation can harm your reputation and relationships. These cases often involve:
- Tough police questioning
- Testimony from state psychologists or other experts
- Emotional statements from children
- CPS investigations that can result in your children being removed
- Intense media scrutiny and community stigma
You need a defense lawyer who truly understands Michigan sex crime law, not just a general criminal lawyer. At The Kronzek Firm, we have successfully defended clients throughout Michigan facing complex and highly sensitive sex crime charges.
Do Not Face This Alone — Call The Kronzek Firm
Our criminal defense team in Lansing has handled high-stakes child sexual abuse cases in Ingham County, Eaton County, Livingston County, and across the state. We know the strategies prosecutors use and how to build a strong defense.
Call us any time at (800) 576-6035.
We are available around the clock and can begin protecting your rights immediately.
Do not wait until you are formally charged or until CPS knocks on your door. The sooner you have a defense team in your corner, the better your chances. Your freedom, your future, and your family are too important to risk. Let us help.