Charged with Statutory Rape in Minnesota? What You Need to Know Now
Being charged with statutory rape in Minnesota is one of the most serious and emotionally charged legal battles a person can face. These cases are often misunderstood—by the public, by jurors, and sometimes even by the courts. While the term statutory rape can evoke images of force or violence, the truth is that many of these cases center on age, consent, and legal capacity, not coercion or physical aggression.
Still, the consequences can be devastating: prison, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and a lifetime of stigma. That’s why you need an experienced, Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist like Jack Rice, who understands the legal nuances—and how to defend against them. Contact Jack ice Defense at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.
What Is Statutory Rape in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, statutory rape falls under the broader category of Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) and typically refers to sexual contact or penetration with a minor who is legally unable to give consent due to age. Importantly, even if the minor says “yes,” the law may not recognize their ability to legally consent.
Key factors in charging decisions include:
Age of the victim
Age of the accused
The age difference between the two
Nature of the sexual contact (penetration vs. touching)
Relationship between the parties
Any authority, coercion, or familial connection
Degrees of Statutory Rape in Minnesota (Criminal Sexual Conduct)
Minnesota law breaks down statutory rape into four degrees. The charges—and potential penalties—vary significantly.
1st Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (Statutory Rape)
Involves: Sexual Penetration
Applies when:
The child is under 13 and the offender is 3+ years older
The child is 13–15, and the offender is 4+ years older and in a position of authority
The child is under 16 and the offender is a close relative or guardian
Penalties:
Up to 30 years in prison
Fines up to $40,000
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration (10 years to life)
No Defense: Consent and mistake of age are not defenses
2nd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (Statutory Rape)
Involves: Sexual Contact (not penetration)
Applies when:
The child is under 13 and the offender is 3+ years older
The child is 13–15, and the offender is 4+ years older and in a position of authority
The child is under 16 and the offender is a close relative or guardian
Penalties:
Up to 25 years in prison
Fines up to $35,000
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration (10 years to life)
No Defense: Consent and mistake of age are not defenses
3rd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (Statutory Rape)
Involves: Sexual Penetration
Applies when:
The child is under 13 and the offender is less than 3 years older
The child is 13–15, and the offender is 2–10 years older
The child is 16–17, and the offender is 3+ years older and in a position of authority or a significant relationship
Penalties:
Up to 15 years in prison
Fines up to $30,000
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration
Possible Defense:
If the alleged victim is at least 13 and the accused is not more than 10 years older, not in a position of authority, and not in a significant relationship, mistake of age may be an affirmative defense—but it must be proven by the defense.
4th Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (Statutory Rape)
Involves: Sexual Contact (not penetration)
Applies when:
The child is under 13 and the offender is less than 3 years older
The child is 13–15, and the offender is 2–10 years older
The child is 16–17, and the offender is 3+ years older and in a position of authority or a significant relationship
Penalties:
Up to 10 years in prison
Fines up to $20,000
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration
Possible Defense:
Similar to 3rd degree charges, mistake of age may apply in certain limited circumstances if the accused is not in a position of authority and within 10 years of age.
Facing Statutory Rape Charges? Don’t Face Them Alone
The legal system takes statutory rape charges extremely seriously—and so should you. These cases are complex, high-stakes, and emotionally charged. The consequences extend far beyond prison. Being labeled a sex offender can destroy careers, reputations, and families.
That’s why you need Jack Rice, a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, former prosecutor, and former U.S. Federal Officer. Jack has spent decades successfully defending those accused of serious sex crimes across Minnesota.
Contact Jack Rice Defense Today
If you or someone you care about is facing statutory rape charges in Minnesota, contact Jack Rice Defense immediately. You have rights. Let Jack protect them.
📍 St. Paul, Minnesota
📞 Call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339
🌐 Visit jackricelaw.com for a free, confidential consultation.