Criminal Sexual Conduct Defense — Grand Rapids & West Michigan

Criminal sexual conduct (CSC) is among the most serious offense categories in Michigan. A conviction can mean a mandatory prison sentence, lifetime sex offender registration, and permanent consequences for employment, housing, and family relationships. Maesen Law has defended West Michigan clients against CSC charges for over two decades. Ryan Maesen will personally evaluate your case, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Michigan CSC — Four Degrees

Michigan law (MCL 750.520b through 750.520g) divides criminal sexual conduct into four degrees based on the nature of the act, whether force or coercion was used, and the victim's age:

CSC First Degree — MCL 750.520b

Sexual penetration under aggravating circumstances (victim under 13, use of force or coercion, armed with a weapon, or acting with an accomplice). Maximum sentence: life imprisonment. Mandatory minimums apply in many circumstances — for example, 25 years for penetration of a victim under 13. Lifetime electronic monitoring is ordered on release. Mandatory SORA registration: lifetime.

CSC Second Degree — MCL 750.520c

Sexual contact (not penetration) under aggravating circumstances similar to CSC-1. Felony, up to 15 years in prison. Mandatory SORA registration for most convictions.

CSC Third Degree — MCL 750.520d

Sexual penetration with a person age 13–15, or by force or coercion without additional aggravating factors. Felony, up to 15 years in prison. SORA registration required.

CSC Fourth Degree — MCL 750.520e

Sexual contact (not penetration) by force, coercion, or with a person age 13–15. High-court misdemeanor, up to 2 years in prison and a $500 fine. SORA registration required.

Sex Offender Registry Consequences

Michigan's SORA requires public registration for all CSC convictions. First- and second-degree convictions typically carry lifetime registration; third and fourth degree carry 25-year registration terms. Registry status restricts where you can live (within 1,000 feet of schools), prohibits certain employment, and requires regular in-person reporting. Violations are themselves felonies.

Defense Strategies

Credibility of the Complaining Witness

CSC cases frequently come down to one person's word against another's. Thorough investigation of the complaining witness's background, prior statements, motive to fabricate, and relationship with the accused is essential. Inconsistencies in recorded statements made to police, forensic interviewers, or medical personnel can be powerful at trial.

Consent

Where the alleged victim is of legal age, consent is an affirmative defense to CSC charges involving force or coercion. Establishing that the conduct was consensual requires careful fact-gathering from the outset of the case.

Challenging Forensic Evidence

DNA, medical examination findings, and SANE nurse reports are common prosecution tools. These can be challenged through cross-examination of the examining clinician, independent expert review, and chain-of-custody analysis.

Constitutional Violations

Statements made without a proper Miranda warning, identifications obtained through suggestive police procedures, and evidence gathered from unlawful searches can be suppressed, often gutting the prosecution's case.

Plea and Sentencing Mitigation

When the evidence is strong, negotiating a reduction to a lesser offense — potentially one that does not trigger mandatory minimums or lifetime registration — may be the most valuable outcome achievable. Maesen Law evaluates every case for these opportunities.

Do Not Speak to Police Without an Attorney

Investigators often contact CSC suspects for a voluntary interview before charges are filed. This interview is not voluntary in any meaningful sense — everything you say will be used against you. Invoke your right to counsel immediately and contact Maesen Law.

Contact Maesen Law

Ryan Maesen personally handles every criminal sexual conduct case. Call (616) 821-7691 or request a confidential consultation online. We represent clients throughout Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Kent County, Ottawa County, and all of West Michigan.