Defense for Serious Sexual Offense Allegations

Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC represents individuals facing criminal sexual conduct charges in St Cloud and Apple Valley and throughout Minnesota.

Criminal sexual conduct charges in St Cloud, Apple Valley, or anywhere in Minnesota carry life-altering consequences including decades in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and permanent damage to your reputation and relationships. These cases often begin with an accusation, a police interview, and an arrest that happens without warning. Once charged, you face aggressive prosecution, public scrutiny, and procedural rules that favor the alleged victim's testimony even when physical evidence is absent. The stakes are higher than in almost any other criminal case.

Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC represents individuals accused of sexual offenses across Minnesota. The firm provides strategic defense focused on protecting due process, challenging the evidence, and reviewing investigative procedures for errors or bias. Each case requires thorough examination of witness credibility, forensic evidence, and the circumstances surrounding the allegations. The firm handles high-stakes felony charges with discretion and attention to the legal and personal consequences at stake.

If you are facing criminal sexual conduct charges in St Cloud, Apple Valley, or elsewhere in Minnesota, contact Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC to discuss your defense and the process ahead.

Defending Against Sexual Offense Allegations

Criminal sexual conduct defense begins with obtaining all reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and electronic communications that relate to the allegations. Your attorney will review the timeline, the relationship between the parties, and any inconsistencies in the alleged victim's account. In St Cloud, Apple Valley, and throughout Minnesota, these cases often rely heavily on testimony rather than physical evidence, which makes credibility assessments and cross-examination critical to the defense.

After reviewing the evidence, you will see your attorney challenge the prosecution's theory, file motions to exclude prejudicial evidence, and prepare for trial if no acceptable resolution is offered. Some cases involve challenging the legality of police interviews, the reliability of forensic testing, or the accuracy of statements attributed to you. The goal is to prevent wrongful conviction and minimize the impact on your life, your family, and your future.

Criminal sexual conduct cases in Minnesota are prosecuted aggressively, and the penalties for conviction include mandatory minimum prison sentences, lifetime registration as a predatory offender, and civil commitment in some circumstances. The firm represents clients statewide and coordinates with investigators, expert witnesses, and forensic specialists when necessary. Defense work is discreet, focused, and tailored to the facts of each case.

Criminal sexual conduct allegations involve complex legal issues, severe penalties, and personal consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. These answers address the concerns that come up most often during representation.

These cases raise serious and difficult questions

Minnesota law divides criminal sexual conduct into five degrees based on the type of contact, the age of the alleged victim, and whether force or coercion was involved. First-degree offenses carry a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and require registration as a predatory offender.
What are the degrees of criminal sexual conduct in Minnesota?
The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the conduct occurred and that it meets the elements of the charged offense. They rely on testimony from the alleged victim, corroborating witnesses, forensic evidence, and any statements you made to police.
How does the prosecution prove a sexual offense case?
Predatory offender registration requires you to register your address, employment, and other information with law enforcement for a minimum of 10 years and often for life. Registration is public and affects where you can live and work.
What is predatory offender registration?
Cases go to trial when the evidence is disputed, the alleged victim's credibility is questionable, or the penalties for conviction are so severe that a plea is not in your interest. Trials provide the opportunity for acquittal if the prosecution cannot meet its burden.
Why do some sexual offense cases go to trial?
Conviction results in a prison sentence, mandatory registration, probation or supervised release after prison, and restrictions on contact with minors and internet use. You may also face civil commitment proceedings if the state believes you are likely to reoffend.
What happens if I am convicted of criminal sexual conduct?

Criminal sexual conduct charges carry consequences that affect every aspect of your life, and the defense must begin immediately to preserve evidence and protect your rights. Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC represents individuals accused of sexual offenses throughout Minnesota, including cases filed in St Cloud and Apple Valley. Contact the firm to discuss your case and the defense strategy that applies to your situation.